Page 113 - (DK) The Dog Encyclopedia

Akita

HEIGHT WEIGHT LIFE SPAN Any color
American: 24–28in (61–71cm) American: 65–115lb (29–52kg) 10–12 years
Japanese: 23–28in (58–70cm) Japanese: 75–99lb (34–45kg)

This strong dog has a variable temperament and requires THE FAITHFUL HACHI-KO
experienced handling to avoid wayward behavior
Born in 1923, Hachi-ko was an Akita Inu. Each
This big, powerful breed is descended and these formed the basis of the American day when his owner, Professor Ueno, went to
work, Hachi-ko accompanied him to Tokyo’s
from hunting dogs bred in the rugged Akita, which is the breed now known
Shibuya Station, then waited all day to walk
Akita Prefecture, on the island of Honshu as Akita today. The American Akita is
home with him. In 1925 Professor Ueno died
in Japan, to hunt large quarry such as deer, recognized in many countries as a separate at work. Hachi-ko waited for him—for more than
bear, and wild boar. The Japanese Akita, breed from the Akita Inu, and is larger and 10 years. He became a national hero for his
or Akita Inu, was first developed in the more imposing than its Japanese forebear. loyalty, and when he died, Japan held a day of
mourning. A statue of Hachi-ko was erected at
19th century as a fighting and hunting The Akita is a substantial and strikingly
Shibuya Station (below), and each year a
dog. The breed is a national treasure of handsome dog. It has a quiet dignity, is
ceremony is held to honor him.
Japan, and the dogs are seen as symbols loyal and protective toward its human
of good luck. family, and is especially good with children.
The first Akita Inu was brought to the However, it tends to be domineering with
US in 1937 by Helen Keller. American other dogs. This breed needs an experienced
servicemen returning home after World owner and clear rules set at a young age to
War II brought more Akitas with them, prevent bad behavior.

Thick, bushy tail
curls over back

Fawn Black overlay
Triangular,
Black erect ears
face mask

Deep,
wide chest Red-fawn
White markings

Coarse outer coat
stands away from body
Well developed
muscular White chest markings
hindquarters
extend down to feet
AMERICAN AKITA JAPANESE AKITA INU

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