AKITA pronounced ah kee´tah. The Akita is a large, powerful, alert breed of dog with much substance and heavy bone. They originated in Japan, specifically from the most northern island, Honshu, in the Akita Prefecture.

Appearance: They have a broad head which forms a blunt triangle, with deep muzzle, small triangular eyes and relatively small erect ears carried forward in line with back of neck characteristic of the breed. As a balancing agent, the large, full, curled tail is set high and carried over the back, always dipping to or below level of back. The feet are catlike, well knuckled up with thick pads. There is no harshness in the Akita's appearance, for the short thick and lustrous double coat softens the rugged outline of muscle and bone.

Character/Temperament: The Akita is reserved (aloof) silent and dominant. Because of the Akita's nature to dominate it is important that they be obedience training and shown their place in the family from day one. Although large they do very well indoors and are easily housetrained. The Akita is not a good dog for off leash walks as their nature to dominate can get them into trouble if allowed to run free. Due to their size and strength they should be walked by adults and do best in homes with securely fenced yards. Socialization is paramount in importance and should begin when the puppy is very young. They should be respectfully introduced to children and a wide array of people to include the elderly, so they better understand canes, walkers and wheelchairs, people with funny hats, sunglasses etc. If taught early to tolerate companion animals like cats, they can co-exist well. The Akita must be king of the mountain and can be aggressive to other dogs that challenge him. It is strongly recommended that if an Akita is to share it's home with a companion dog that it be of opposite sex, as the dominance is most strongly expressed within the same sex and fights can occur, however, there is some
exception to smaller dogs of less dominant breeds that express no threat to the Akita's authority. Its a mistake to own two Akitas of the same sex unless you have special facilities for keeping them separate at all times. Akitas not made familiar early on with small animals including small dogs may not be good around them and should be watched and controlled.

Akitas are typically loving with family and can easily become fond of family friends. Although tolerant of his own family children (to a limit) this does not always extend to neighbor or visiting children. Adult supervision is important during all interaction between children and pets rather it be parakeet, kitty, bunny or dog, and with the Akita this is an absolute due to their powerful size and character.