Here are 10 fascinating facts you need to know about the popular Akita dog.
But with 221 different purebred dog breeds to choose from, there’s a lot of thought to be done before selecting your perfect pup.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with psychologist Stanley Coren’s book “The Intelligence of Dogs” ranking breeds by instinct, obedience and adaptability.
A dog that often appears on the canine wish lists of would-be owners is the Akita – a breed that can be strong-willed but is alert, courageous and fiercely loyal to its family.
Here are 10 fun and interesting facts about the breed.
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The Akita takes its name from the region of Japan it originates from – the snowy mountainous lands of Odate, Akita Prefecture.
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There are two distinct varieties of Akita, namely the Akita Inu (or Japanese Akita) and the American Akita (or simply Akita). There is some debate as to whether they should be considered different breeds – the American Kennel Club says they are not, while the UK Kennel Club says they are. They have broadly similar characteristics, but the American variety comes in a wider range of colors.
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In their Japanese homeland, the Akita is a symbol of good health, happiness and longevity. A small charm or Akita statue is often given as a “get well soon” gift, or to new parents to wish their baby good health in the future.
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An Akita called Hachiko is Japan’s most famous dog – with a story that echoes Greyfriars Bobby in Scotland. In the 1920s, Hachiko accompanied his suburban landlord to the station every day, then returned to the platform to wait for him to return home. After his owner died one day at work, the faithful dog continued to wait patiently every day at the train station for 10 years.
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