Akita-inu (English Akita-inu, Japanese. 秋田 犬) is a dog breed native to the northern regions of Japan. There are two different types of dogs: the Japanese lineage, known as the Akita Inu (Inu in Japanese for dog), and the American Akita, or large Japanese dog.
The difference between them is that the Japanese line recognizes a small number of colors, while the American line recognizes almost all, plus they differ in size and head shape.
In most countries, the American is considered a separate breed, however, in the US and Canada, they are considered one breed, differing only in type. These dogs became best known after the story of Hachiko, a loyal dog who lived in Japan before World War II.
The Akita is a powerful, independent, and dominant breed, aggressive towards strangers and lovable to family members. They are healthy enough, but they can suffer from genetic diseases and are sensitive to certain medications. Dogs of this breed have short hair, but due to the recessive gene, dogs with long hair are found in many litters.
Abstracts
- They are aggressive towards other dogs, especially those of a similar sex.
- These dogs are not for novice dog breeders.
- Socialization and persistent, competent training are extremely important for these dogs. If mishandled or raised, they often become aggressive.
- Shedding and a lot!
- They get along well in an apartment but need walks and physical activity.
- They are great guards, attentive and discreet, but they need a steady hand.
History of the breed
Japanese sources, both written and oral, describe the ancestor of the breed, the Matagi Inu dog (Japanese マ タ ギ 犬 - hunting dog), one of the oldest dogs on the planet. Matagi is an ethnic-social group of Japanese living on the islands of Hokkaido and Honshu, born hunters.
And it is the island of Honshu (Akita prefecture) that is considered the birthplace of the breed, the place that gave the name to the breed. The ancestors of the breed, the Matagi Inu, were used exclusively as hunting dogs, helping to hunt bears, wild boars, serious,s, and Japanese macaques.
This breed has been influenced by other breeds from Asia and Europe, including English Mastiff, Great Dane, Tosa Inu. This happened at the beginning of the 20th century, due to the growing popularity of dog fighting in the city of Odate and the desire to get a more aggressive dog.
According to some sources, they were bred with German Shepherds during World War II to avoid government decree that all dogs not suitable for war should be destroyed.
To understand the history of the breed, one must understand the history of the country. For hundreds of years, it was an isolated country ruled by shoguns. A professional army of samurai helped maintain power in Japan.
These people were brought up with contempt for pain, both their own and that of others. Not surprisingly, dog fighting was very common, especially in the XII-XIII century. This rigorous selection left very few dogs to be kept as pets and for fun.
But, in the 19th century, the industrial era begins. The country needs metals, gold, and silver. A lot of city dwellers move to rural areas, which increases the number of thefts and crimes. The peasants are forced to retrain the matagi-inu (purely hunting dog) as a watchman and a guard.
At the same time, new breeds of dogs come from Europe and Asia, and dog fighting is gaining popularity in the country again. Opponents are both the Tosa Inu (another Japanese breed), and mastiffs, dogs, bullmastiffs. Owners breed them with indigenous breeds, wanting to get bigger and meaner dogs. However, this worries many Japanese as indigenous dogs begin to dissolve and lose their features.
In 1931, the breed was officially declared a natural monument. The Mayor of Odate City (Akita Prefecture), creates the Akita Inu Hozankai Club, which aims to preserve the breed's originality through careful selection. Several breeders are breeding these dogs, avoiding those individuals in which hybridization is visible.
The breed is named Odate but later renamed Akita Inu. In 1934, the first breed standard appears, which will later be amended. In 1967, the Akita Dog Preservation Society set up a museum that houses documents and photographs of the breed's history.
The real blow for the breed was the Second World War, during which dogs practically disappeared. At the beginning of the war, many of them suffered from malnutrition, then they themselves were eaten by the starving population, and their skins were used as clothing.
In the end, the government issued a decree according to which all dogs not participating in hostilities should be exterminated, as the rabies epidemic began in the country. The only way to keep the dogs was either to shelter them in remote mountain villages (where they again crossed with Matagi Inu), or to cross them with German Shepherds .
Only thanks to Morie Sawataishi, we know this breed today, it was he who began to restore the breed after the occupation. Lovers restored the livestock, looked only for purebred dogs, and avoided crossing with other breeds.
Gradually, their number increased, and the American military and sailors brought these dogs home. By the 1950s, there were about 1000 registered dogs, and by 1960 this number had doubled.
American akita
The paths of the Akita Inu and the American Akita began to diverge after World War II. At this time, Japan, as a country that lost the war, was under US occupation, and there were many American military bases on its territory. The military, were fascinated by large Japanese dogs, and tried to bring puppies to America.
However, the Japanese did not feel any desire to share the quality, purebred dogs, which they themselves collected bit by bit throughout the country. And the Americans themselves preferred large, bear-like dogs, mestizos with other breeds, small and graceful.
American lovers of the breed bred a larger, heavier and more threatening dog, calling it the Big Japanese. Although both types are descended from the same ancestors, there are differences between American and Japanese dogs.
While any color is acceptable for American Akita, Akita Inu can only be red, red - fawn, white, spotted. Also, Americans may have a black face mask, which for Japanese is a reason for disqualification. American with more massive bone, large, with a head resembling a bear, while the Japanese are smaller, lighter, and with a head resembling a fox.
To gain recognition with the AKC, breeders in the United States agreed to stop importing dogs from Japan. Only those that were in the USA could be used for breeding. This made the gene pool very limited and minimized the potential for the breed to develop.
The Japanese, however, were unlimited in nothing and could develop the breed as they saw fit. They focused on getting dogs of certain colors and sizes.
As a result, the American Akita and Akita Inu, although they have common ancestors, are very different from each other.
Description
Like other Pomeranian breeds, it is adapted to life in cold climates. Characteristic features of the breed are: a large head, erect, triangular ears, a curled tail, and a powerful build. Adult males reach 66-71 cm at the withers and weigh 45-59 kg, and females 61-66 cm and 32-45 kg. Dogs of Japanese descent are usually smaller and lighter.
Puppy size and weight vary by individual, but in general, you can expect:
- for American Akita puppies, 8 weeks old: 8.16 to 9.97 kg
- for Akita Inu puppies, age 8 weeks: from 7.25 to 9.07
These dogs grow slowly, and reach full development by the third year of life. The growth rate of puppies may differ, some gradually increase in size week after week, others grow rapidly, then slow down.
In general, a set of 5.5 to 7 kg each month can be considered normal until the dog gains 35-40 kg. From this point on, growth slows down, but does not stop until the dog has reached its full potential.
There are growth charts but don't worry if your puppy doesn't match them, they are very general.
- Age 6 weeks: At this age, the puppies are already impressive for their size, although they need 3 years to fully develop.
- Age 6 months: At this age, it already resembles the dog that it will be in adulthood. The proportions of the body have become more pronounced, the roundness characteristic of puppies has disappeared.
- Age - 1 year: Despite the fact that by this time the females have already begun to estrus, they are not yet fully mature.
- Age 1-2 years: Growth is slower, but body shape changes, especially the head. It is a slow process, but you will see the changes clearly over time.
- Age 2: At this time, physical development slows down significantly, although there will still be changes over the next 12 months. Dogs will stop growing in height but will become noticeably wider, especially the ribcage.
Wool
According to the American Akita breed standard, all types of colors are acceptable, including white, as well as a black mask on the face. The Japanese can be red with a white color on the inner surface of the paws, chest and muzzle mask (so-called "urazhiro"), brindle with white urazhiro, white. A black mask on the face is unacceptable.
There are two types of coats: short-haired and long-haired. Long-haired are not allowed to participate in the show and are considered culling, but in nature they are no different from short-haired.
Long hair, also known as Moku, is a consequence of an autosomal recessive gene that only manifests itself if the father and mother are carriers.
Ears
One of the most common questions when the Akita's ears get up? In adult dogs, the ears are erect, while in puppies they are lowered.
Many owners worry about this, wondering at what age they rise. Their excitement is understandable, since according to the breed standard, the ears should be small, erect and have a slight forward tilt.
If you have a small puppy, don't worry. There are two points that are responsible for this process. The first is age. The ears will lift as the puppy matures, as the muscles at the base of the ears take time to get stronger. Chewing speeds up this process as these muscles are connected to the muscles of the jaw. They get stronger while eating, as well as when the puppy chews toys or plays.
The second point is the loss of milk teeth. Don't expect your puppy to have erect ears until the teeth are completely replaced.
It often happens that they rise, fall, or one ear is erect, the other is not. There is no reason for concern, over time, everything will level out. Usually, this process begins at the age of 10-14 weeks and ends at the age of six months.
Eyes
Purebred dogs have brown eyes, dark brown is preferable. They are small, dark, deep-set and have a characteristic triangular shape. This form is a physical difference and must manifest itself from birth.
If your puppy has round eyes, this will not go away with time. Also, the color of the eyes does not darken over time, but, on the contrary, brightens. Some, with a light coat, may have a black line around the eyes, eyeliner. If present, it only enhances the eastern eye shape.
Life span
The average life expectancy is 10-12 years, which is slightly less than that of other breeds of similar size. Females live a little longer than males, but the difference is not very significant and amounts to a statistical 2 months. Moreover, it is typical for both Japanese and American Akita, since they have the same roots.
Life expectancy was influenced by the war, especially the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, as before it, dogs lived for 14-15 years. Do not forget that large dogs usually live less than small ones, suffer from serious joint problems, and their hearts have to work harder.
Paws
The description of the paws is the same in all standards, but differs in detail.
Japanese Akita Club of America: Feet like a cat, with thick pads, arched, firm.
AKC: Feline-like, arched, straight.
Both types of Akita, Japanese and American, have closed-toed paws, which allows them to swim beautifully. When swimming, they use both front and hind legs, unlike other breeds, which only use the front. At the same time, most of them do not like to swim and only enter the water if they have to.
Tail
The tail is the same feature of the breed as is the shape of the eyes. It should be thick, rolled into a tight ring.
Newborn puppies have a straight tail, which changes its shape quickly, within two months. By this age, owners will notice how the tail curls up into a ring. If a breeder sells a puppy over the age of 8 months, and his tail is straight, then this is a bad sign. He may curl up even after this age, but there is a chance that he will remain straight.
As the puppies grow, the ring gets tighter and the tail gets thicker. He may be slightly straightened when the dog is relaxed or asleep, but by the strict standards of this breed should never be straight.
The length of the coat on the body of the Akita Inu is about 5 cm, including at the withers and croup. But on the tail it is slightly longer, in fact it is on the tail that the dog has the longest and fluffiest coat. The tail, as it were, balances the powerful head of the dog, it should be thick, fluffy, and does not depend on whether the dog sheds or not.
Character
The question of character cannot be given a short, simple answer. These incredible dogs cannot be described in a few short, simple phrases. The character of the American Akita is slightly different from that of the Japanese Akita Inu.
Americans are more serious, Japanese are a little more frivolous. But, most of them are neither a stupid sofa dog, nor a serious, gloomy dog. Akita is the golden mean.
Here's what you can expect from these dogs:
Independent thinking - sometimes mistaken for stubbornness.
Sense of Rank - If the owner has a couple or more dogs, each will have a different rank. Everyone wants to eat first, first to enter the house, first to leave, etc. That is why it is extremely important that from the first day they learn that a person is at the top and do not try to dominate.
A tendency to learn quickly - they grasp everything on the fly and get bored if the same thing is repeated to them. They quickly understand what they want from them, but their character requires them to understand why they need it. Therefore, it is very important to find the right motivation for your Akita Inu.
Well suited for an apartment - despite their size and thick coat (sometimes fading), they are great for living in an apartment. They often successfully live even in cramped, one-room apartments.
They are not afraid of heights - that is why balconies must be fenced. Puppies have more courage than intelligence, plus adult dogs jump high, and where they can land they are not worried.
They love space - most will be happy walking along the beach or field with you. Their character has a sense of freedom and spaciousness, plus they love physical activity, new places and smells.
Sensitivity - Although they tolerate physical pain well, their feelings are easily hurt. Don't be fooled by size.
Fidelity - they will not pester you or poke their nose at you, urging you to play. Their loyalty is calm and quiet, but very strong. Adult dogs love to lie quietly next to the owner while he watches TV. You might think that she is asleep, but they are aware of every movement of the owner. And if you go to another room, what will happen? Akita is already there, like your shadow.
Patience is incredible, but these dogs are dominant, unobtrusive and very patient. They will be bored and lonely without you, but they will patiently wait for your return. They can stand by your bed without making a sound and look at you for hours, waiting for you to wake up.
Respect for elders - some are worried about how they are with the elderly. Fine! In the United States, they are even used in hospices, for the maintenance and psychological rehabilitation of the elderly. But with children, it's a different story, much depends on whether they are part of the family and how they behave.
Other dogs - many are great friends with other dogs, provided that they are smaller and live in the same family. But their friendship with strangers does not go well. In most cases, same-sex dogs will not find common ground with other dogs of the same sex. Owners need to understand that instincts are strong and despite training, aggression will manifest in the form of growls. Aggression can be less if the dog is neutered and more if the opponent is of similar size.
Bites is a guard dog and will follow strangers until it realizes that they are welcome guests. She can bite, but not indiscriminately. It's part of instinct, but it can be controlled with good training.
Claustrophobia - they are a little afraid of confined spaces, do not like enclosed spaces. Males love a good view and the feeling that they are in control of the space.
All dogs are gregarious animals, which means that they follow the hierarchy adopted in the pack, coming from the leader. All others are distinguished by a higher or lower rank.
The nature of the Akita forces her to be either dominant or to take the place indicated by the owner and then behave well towards him and his family members. But, they can be aggressive towards strangers and other dogs.
These dogs have a good and obedient character, but only if the dog has been well trained and if the owner understands what he can and cannot stand (according to his rank).
These are dominant dogs, they will follow a person as a leader, but they will dominate other animals. This doesn’t mean they don’t get along with other dogs, it’s a game that takes place in the background. The Akita Inu and the tiny dog can be best friends.
Aggressive temperament (in fact, an attempt to find out your rank in the outside world), begins to manifest itself at the age of 9 months to 2 years. Akita begins to ignore someone or something that he has to do, he can growl, and if he does not leave the choice, he can bite. And it is the owner's duty to be prepared for this situation and to react correctly to it.
Attitude towards children
It largely depends on the nature, behavior of children and the age at which the Akita first encountered them. Puppies that grow up in the company of children usually get along great with them.
Problems can be if the dog is an adult and protects “his children”. They can interpret loud screams, running, fighting, active games as an attack and rush to the defense. It is important not to leave such a dog unattended and actively engage in socialization in order to accustom it to the activity and noise of children.
Other dogs
Usually a dog and a bitch get along harmoniously, sometimes she dominates, sometimes she. Usually, males are better able to tolerate a new female than vice versa. But two males together, rarely get along well with each other. If they grew up together, they can still, but a new dog in the house leads to confrontation.
Barking
They do not bark often, but due to their sensitivity to unfamiliar sounds, animals and people, they can use the barking as a warning to someone intruding into the territory.
Security
Some people wonder how they will react to new people in your company. Will there be problems? The character allows her to unmistakably understand who you are happy with, and who is an unwanted guest in the house.
But even when faced with a threat, they will make minimal efforts to eliminate it. For example, if a thief climbs into a house, he will cut off his escape routes, biting if he tries and awaits the help of a person. They control themselves well even in a stressful situation.
Socialization
Socialization should be done as early as possible, most importantly from 3 weeks to 4 months. What will be put into the puppy at this time will manifest itself as he grows up. It is at this time that the Akita will find mutual understanding with a person or not. In addition, at this age, the puppy learns the world and must understand that this world is as big as its owner allows it to be.
It is important to introduce your puppy to as many places, people and events as possible. Everything that is laid down at this age will have a great impact on his entire life. He will absorb all the impressions and draw conclusions from them. And when the Akita reaches 1 year, these ideas take root and can no longer be corrected.
This age is the foundation on which all further behavior of the dog is built. Although adult dogs can be retrained, changing attitudes is much more difficult than shaping them.
Do not forget that before introducing the puppy to the world, you need to go through all the necessary vaccinations and wait a while.
Socializing puppies
From the moment he gets to your house, your attitude is very important. Identify yourself as a leader from day one. Often, the owners are touched and allow the puppy to behave inappropriately, because he is still so small.
However, he already understands and breaks through his place in the family. Of course, owners need to be loving and caring to create a safe and secure environment. But, as already mentioned, socialization means that the dog must understand the leading position of the owner. If she does not consider him dominant, trouble will not keep you waiting.
This breed will definitely dominate the owner if he does not take steps to prevent this situation. Look at the announcements, read the forums. It's a shame how often the owners get rid of the Akita, or even put them to sleep, unable to cope with their pet.
Introduce your puppy to the home and property, but do not leave him alone at home. If he stays on his own, then only indoors (but do not forget about the claustrophobia of this breed).
Start training and mastering commands immediately. Akita understand the basic commands (sit, lie down and me), already at the age of 8 weeks. Daily training and after a couple of months they will learn everything.
Treating puppies is a necessary part of socialization. All family members should hold it in their arms, stroke it and play. In the future, this will help the dog to cope with things like bathing, brushing, and going to the vet more easily.
Train your puppy that you can pick up his favorite toys and even food. Adult dogs can be unexpectedly aggressive if their toy or food is taken from them and this will lead to problems. Continue doing this at 2, 3, 4, 5 months. You pick up the toy (but not tease, but as a fact), pause, and then return it. When he does this constantly, the puppy gets used to the fact that the owner can be trusted, and he will always return a well-deserved thing.
There is a great temptation, but the puppy should not be allowed to sleep in the owner's bed. This in itself will not lead to any problems, but you need to teach the dog that the leader sleeps in bed, and she is on the floor.
The command to “sit” should be given before the puppy is treated to something.
The owner needs to be firm, not scary. You want your dog to respect you, not fear you.
Getting to know the outside world
You, as the owner, decide how big the world around her will be for her. An adult Akita cannot be expected to behave decorously if the environment is new to her. She will be on the alert and will not be able to focus on what you tell her. This type of socialization should start as early as possible. Once all vaccinations are completed, introduce the puppy to as many locations and environments as possible.
Always keep your Akita Inu on a leash, it will give you a lot more control.
While walking around the area is important, don't just stop there. Change routes, choose different roads every day. Take your puppy to parks, markets, shops, lakes, beaches, pet stores and landings.
You already know that Akitas do not tolerate other dogs well. However, they can be taught to get along without incident. When walking, do not avoid other dogs. If both are on a leash, allow mutual sniffing. If there are signs of aggression, such as growling, spread them apart. But, if the acquaintance is calm, do not interrupt it.
Teach you to calmly tolerate travel in a car. Start with short rides of 5-10 minutes a day, working up to 30-45 minutes.
Care
Grooming is not difficult, but there are a few things you need to do regularly to keep your dog healthy and beautiful. They say that they are very clean and the owners do not need to look after them. But this is not the case.
Yes, they lick themselves, but this is not enough to get rid of all the hair that falls out. Moreover, they shed heavily twice a year. Wool does not require special care - it is enough to comb it once a week. During seasonal molting, comb out more often, 3-4 times a week.
In addition, you should regularly check your ears, trim your nails, bathe, brush, and occasionally brush your teeth. In general, caring for them is no different from caring for other large breeds of dogs.