Dog Breeds - Japanese Akitainu

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The warmth and friendliness a particular breed may display towards family members or familiar faces can vary significantly. Certain breeds may exhibit reserved behavior showing warmth primarily to their owner, whereas others are renowned for their sociable nature, often treating any acquaintance as though they were a close companion.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The inherent sociability of a breed towards other dogs can differ. While all dogs should be closely monitored when interacting or being introduced to other dogs, there are some breeds that naturally tend to be more congenial with their canine counterparts, whether they're within the comfort of their home environment or out mingling in communal spaces.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The degree to which a breed can patiently accommodate children's actions and its overall disposition towards being a family-oriented companion varies. It is essential to always oversee interactions between dogs and young children or children of any age who are not accustomed to dogs to ensure safety and positive experiences for both.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur a breed is likely to shed can influence your daily routine significantly. Breeds that shed heavily will require more regular grooming, such as brushing, to manage loose hair. They could also pose a higher risk for triggering specific allergies and may necessitate more frequent cleaning activities like vacuuming and using lint rollers to keep your living space tidy.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The grooming needs of a breed can vary, encompassing how often they need a bath, brush-out, a trim or other forms of coat upkeep. Think about your available time, level of patience and grooming budget when evaluating the amount of grooming a breed requires. Keep in mind that nail trimming is a universal necessity for all breeds to maintain their health and comfort.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The propensity for a breed to drool is something to consider especially if you're particularly keen on cleanliness. If the thought of slobber trails on your arm or damp patches on your clothing isn't appealing to you selecting a breed known for being less drool-prone might be a more suitable match for your preferences.
COAT TYPE +
Double
COAT LENGTH +
Medium

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The inclination of a breed to embrace strangers varies widely. Certain breeds may inherently exhibit a reserved or guarded demeanor with unfamiliar people, regardless of the environment. In contrast, other breeds might display an enthusiastic and approachable attitude, eagerly greeting every new person they encounter with a wagging tail.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
A breed's zeal for playtime can extend well beyond their puppy years. There are breeds that maintain a lively interest in activities like tug-of-war or fetch as they grow into adulthood. On the flip side, some breeds may prefer a more laid-back lifestyle content with spending the majority of their time lounging on the sofa alongside you.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Some breeds are more inclined to notify you when unfamiliar faces are near. These dogs tend to respond to any perceived threat, be it the mail carrier or a squirrel scampering outside the window. However, such vigilant breeds often adapt and become friendly with strangers once they perceive them to be welcomed and harmless through the acceptance of their family members.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
A breed's adaptability to change can range significantly. This encompasses how well a breed copes with alterations in living situations, varying noise levels, shifts in weather, daily routines and other fluctuations that come with everyday life. Some breeds navigate these changes with ease maintaining their composure amidst new circumstances, while others might require a more patient and gradual approach to adjustment.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training a dog and its eagerness to learn new things varies across breeds. Certain breeds are naturally inclined to please their owners and revel in learning new commands and tricks. Others value their independence, often choosing activities according to their personal desires and could exhibit a more headstrong attitude when it comes to structured training.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
Different dog breeds have varying requirements when it comes to physical activity and mental engagement. Breeds bursting with vivacity are always on their toes, keenly anticipating their next exciting escapade. Their days are filled with an abundance of running, leaping and playful antics. On the flip side, breeds with a more laid-back energy level are akin to the relaxed demeanor of couch dwellers, they’re content to lounge peacefully and indulge in lengthy naps.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency with which a breed uses its voice, through barks or howls varies widely. Some breeds seem to have an opinion about every person strolling by or every bird that flutters past the window voicing their thoughts liberally. Meanwhile, other breeds reserve their barks for specific scenarios showing restraint in their vocal expressions. Interestingly, there are breeds that don't bark at all, yet they are not silent, they find unique ways to communicate employing a variety of sounds to convey their feelings and responses.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The intellectual needs of a dog breed play a crucial role in maintaining its happiness and well-being. Dogs that have been bred with a specific purpose in mind often thrive on tasks that necessitate a blend of decision-making, problem-solving and focused attention. Deprived of adequate mental challenges, these clever canines are prone to taking matters into their own paws, initiating their personal endeavors to stay mentally engaged. However, beware their self-appointed projects might not exactly align with your idea of a good time.

COLORS +
,
PATTERNS +
Marking

CARING WITH FAMILY Independent Lovey-Dovey
The warmth and friendliness a particular breed may display towards family members or familiar faces can vary significantly. Certain breeds may exhibit reserved behavior showing warmth primarily to their owner, whereas others are renowned for their sociable nature, often treating any acquaintance as though they were a close companion.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN Unwise Good With Children
The inherent sociability of a breed towards other dogs can differ. While all dogs should be closely monitored when interacting or being introduced to other dogs, there are some breeds that naturally tend to be more congenial with their canine counterparts, whether they're within the comfort of their home environment or out mingling in communal spaces.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The degree to which a breed can patiently accommodate children's actions and its overall disposition towards being a family-oriented companion varies. It is essential to always oversee interactions between dogs and young children or children of any age who are not accustomed to dogs to ensure safety and positive experiences for both.
SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere
The amount of fur a breed is likely to shed can influence your daily routine significantly. Breeds that shed heavily will require more regular grooming, such as brushing, to manage loose hair. They could also pose a higher risk for triggering specific allergies and may necessitate more frequent cleaning activities like vacuuming and using lint rollers to keep your living space tidy.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily
The grooming needs of a breed can vary, encompassing how often they need a bath, brush-out, a trim or other forms of coat upkeep. Think about your available time, level of patience and grooming budget when evaluating the amount of grooming a breed requires. Keep in mind that nail trimming is a universal necessity for all breeds to maintain their health and comfort.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel
The propensity for a breed to drool is something to consider especially if you're particularly keen on cleanliness. If the thought of slobber trails on your arm or damp patches on your clothing isn't appealing to you selecting a breed known for being less drool-prone might be a more suitable match for your preferences.
COAT STYLES GUIDE
Double
COAT SPECTRUM
Medium
FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend
The inclination of a breed to embrace strangers varies widely. Certain breeds may inherently exhibit a reserved or guarded demeanor with unfamiliar people, regardless of the environment. In contrast, other breeds might display an enthusiastic and approachable attitude, eagerly greeting every new person they encounter with a wagging tail.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop
A breed's zeal for playtime can extend well beyond their puppy years. There are breeds that maintain a lively interest in activities like tug-of-war or fetch as they grow into adulthood. On the flip side, some breeds may prefer a more laid-back lifestyle content with spending the majority of their time lounging on the sofa alongside you.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant
Some breeds are more inclined to notify you when unfamiliar faces are near. These dogs tend to respond to any perceived threat, be it the mail carrier or a squirrel scampering outside the window. However, such vigilant breeds often adapt and become friendly with strangers once they perceive them to be welcomed and harmless through the acceptance of their family members.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable
A breed's adaptability to change can range significantly. This encompasses how well a breed copes with alterations in living situations, varying noise levels, shifts in weather, daily routines and other fluctuations that come with everyday life. Some breeds navigate these changes with ease maintaining their composure amidst new circumstances, while others might require a more patient and gradual approach to adjustment.
OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please
The ease of training a dog and its eagerness to learn new things varies across breeds. Certain breeds are naturally inclined to please their owners and revel in learning new commands and tricks. Others value their independence, often choosing activities according to their personal desires and could exhibit a more headstrong attitude when it comes to structured training.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy
Different dog breeds have varying requirements when it comes to physical activity and mental engagement. Breeds bursting with vivacity are always on their toes, keenly anticipating their next exciting escapade. Their days are filled with an abundance of running, leaping and playful antics. On the flip side, breeds with a more laid-back energy level are akin to the relaxed demeanor of couch dwellers, they’re content to lounge peacefully and indulge in lengthy naps.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal
Medium
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Happy to Lounge Needs a Job or Activity
The intellectual needs of a dog breed play a crucial role in maintaining its happiness and well-being. Dogs that have been bred with a specific purpose in mind often thrive on tasks that necessitate a blend of decision-making, problem-solving and focused attention. Deprived of adequate mental challenges, these clever canines are prone to taking matters into their own paws, initiating their personal endeavors to stay mentally engaged. However, beware their self-appointed projects might not exactly align with your idea of a good time.
COLORS	,
PATTERNS	Marking

About The Breed

Originating from local hunting canines, the Japanese Akitainu was brought back from the brink and meticulously preserved by committed enthusiasts within the Akitainu Hozonkai, often referred to as AKIHO – the Akita Dog Preservation Society. This breed stands out with its impressive looks and showcases both physical prowess and keen intellect.

Tracing its lineage back to indigenous hunting breeds, the once nearly vanished Akitainu has been carefully conserved and revitalized by the passionate breeders of the Akitainu Hozonkai. Celebrated for its eye-catching features, the Japanese Akitainu boasts a remarkable combination of autonomy and spirited demeanor.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A JAPANESE AKITAINU

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Japanese Akitainu: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	This breed is susceptible to several autoimmune conditions that, unfortunately, cannot yet be detected through genetic testing. These include disorders such as sebaceous adenitis, uveodermatologic syndrome, pemphigus and discoid lupus, along with various food and environmental allergies. Amelogenesis imperfecta is an exception, as it is a condition that can be identified through screening. The breed's national club mandates hip and eye examinations and emphatically advises additional screenings for patellar health, thyroid function and issues related to amelogenesis imperfecta or enamel hypoplasia. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Patella Evaluation Thyroid Evaluation Teeth

Grooming

	Throughout the year, a slicker brush can serve well in the routine grooming of the Japanese Akitainu. Be prepared, though, as this breed experiences a dramatic shedding of its undercoat semi-annually – releasing fluff in abundance which means you'll often find stray tufts of hair here and there during these periods. To manage this, a bath followed by a session with a cold air force dryer and thorough combing can significantly speed up this natural shedding phase. It's also important to regularly trim the nails using either clippers or a nail grinder to keep them at a comfortable length. For overall well-being, consistent dental care and clean ears are imperative, impacting both looks and health. Regular, gentle brushing every couple of days will maintain a healthy and lustrous coat. If your Akitainu has a longer coat, more frequent brushing might be necessary to prevent tangles and mats.

Exercise

	Given its strong prey drive and potential for dog-aggressiveness, it's wise to keep the Japanese Akitainu leashed in public areas particularly in the presence of other animals and people they haven't met. It's not just a precaution it ensures the safety and comfort of everyone. The breed thrives with consistent walks and ample mental stimulation. With the right training and safety measures in place, these dogs can also be excellent partners for outdoor adventures like hiking and camping, where they can channel their energy and enjoy the stimulating natural environment.

Training

	The Japanese Akitainu flourishes under affirmative training approaches that leverage their inherent smarts. Monotonous routines will lose their attention swiftly, thus training sessions that are both concise and diversified yield the best results. To truly engage dogs of this breed, presenting them with daily intellectual challenges and stimulating activities is essential. Owing to their heritage steeped in hunting, they often take great pleasure in activities that harness their instinctual behaviors, like nose work, barn hunts and lure coursing, where they can put their innate talents to the test.

Nutrition

	The nutritional needs of the Japanese Akitainu are tailored to each dog's level of activity, health requirements and the preferences of their owner. This breed is often susceptible to allergies making the selection of appropriate food ingredients and sources crucial. Prioritizing high-quality food will contribute to their overall health. It's generally recommended to feed puppies three times a day and reduce this to twice a day for adult dogs to align with their dietary needs as they mature.

Historiography

The Japanese Akitainu's storied past is intertwined with that of Japan's other indigenous breeds having journeyed from the edge of extinction to being celebrated as a national treasure. The breed's lengthy history can be segmented into five key eras, some overlapping in time.

Hunting Era - Nestled in the mountainous Tohoku region, within what is today known as Akita Prefecture, traditional hunters called Matagi shaped the Matagiinu, a robust dog slightly larger than medium size, adept at tracking and hunting sizeable game. The Matagiinu is revered as the forebear of the contemporary Akitainu.

Guarding Era - During periods of social turbulence, the once-hunters turned guardians as these canine companions began to protect the dwellings of their noble owners. Fighting Era - Spanning various historical phases from the Edo to Meiji and Taisho periods, the Akitainu lineage was infused with larger Western breeds like Mastiffs to create formidable contenders for dog fighting rings.

Restoration Era - Come the Meiji era, the breed was identified by the Japanese agricultural department as having diverged from its pure form. The year 1927 saw the birth of Akitainu Hozonkai (AKIHO), the pioneering registry committed to the conservation of the pure Akita dogs. Declared a Natural Monument of Japan in 1931, the breed's revival was put on pause by the disruptions of WWII. Post-war only a handful of Akitainu were left some interbred with military German Shepherd Dogs, while a few purebreds were secluded in a remote Tohoku village. Post-war breeders dedicated themselves to reverting the Akitainu back to its ancestral roots.

Preservation Era - Since the aftermath of WWII, dedicated breeders have made significant advancements in safeguarding and promoting the Akitainu. In 1970, with Japan's advocacy, the first international AKIHO chapter was inaugurated in the United States. Later, in 1997, the Japanese Akitainu Club of America was established under the auspices of AKIHO North America furthering the breed's preservation efforts abroad.