Akitas were used primarily as hunting dogs.  They hunted in pairs – one male and one female, with their quarry including ducks, deer, elk, wild boar and even the native Yezo Bear.

It is reported that the breed has also been used as Cattle Herders, Seeing Eye Dogs, Military Guard Dogs, Sled Dogs and Police Dogs.

Akitas are often referred to as "Japanese Fighting Dogs", particularly by the media.  The true Japanese Fighting Dog is a Tosa Inu.  The Tosa Inu is a large Mastiff type dog that is banned in Australia and some other parts of the world. It is an excellent fighter!

Owners of Fighting Dogs in Japan in the late 1800’s were not entirely happy with their Tosa Inu.  Although a superb fighter, it was slightly too large and awkward and was seen to be vulnerable to injury due to its short coat and thin skin.

Attempts to improve the Tosa as a fighting dog were made by crossing it with other breeds.  Eventually someone realised that the perfect cross was sitting there, right under everyone’s nose.  The native Akita Inu was a fearless hunting dog that was extremely agile and had no qualms about tackling an 800-pound bear!  It had a much heavier coat and high held tail that made it less prone to injury than the Tosa.  So a new breed of Fighting Dog was born by crossing the Akita Inu with the Tosa Inu.  The cross produced a dog that had incredible fighting ability.

The Akita Breed has faced extinction three times throughout history, due to famine, a rabies outbreak and most recently during World War II.

In 1931, the Japanese Government declared the Akita Inu a National Monument.

The Akita is considered to be a symbol of good health and if a person is ill or a baby is born, many Akita owners in Japan will send a small statue of an Akita to ensure good health or a speedy recovery from illness.

The Akita can come in a variety of colours, with markings clear and well defined.  The Akitas tail is its crowning glory and should be carried proudly over its back.

Akitas make loving, loyal companions and are excellent with children if brought up with children.  Their history has shown them to be fearless hunters and today’s Akita is still amazingly competent at defending himself.  He will seek to dominate other animals, with which he lives, including, in some cases, humans.  Akita owners must always be aware of this and be constantly vigilant over their dog and possible changes in his behavior.

Obedience training for this breed is not an option.  It is a necessity!

A well-trained and well-adjusted Akita, on the other hand, is an absolute pleasure to own and the pride and joy of his owner.  A good Akita is truly a remarkable dog, unlike any other.  He shows a never-ending loyalty to his family.  He is a fearless protector who would gladly lay down his life for those he loves.

This truly is a remarkable breed!  BUT DEFINITELY NOT FOR EVERYONE!!