The Japanese Akita
up close
A dignified, loyal and independent breed. The Japanese Akita forms a close bond with its family, but its trust and willingness to cooperate must be earned.
HEIGHT (MALE)
67 ± 3 cm
HEIGHT (FEMALE)
61 ± 3 cm
WEIGHT (MALE)
30–35 kg
WEIGHT (FEMALE)
25–30 kg
LIFE EXPECTANCY
10–13 years
COAT
Dense double coat
COLOURS
Brindle, white, red and sesame
GROUP
Hunting and guard dog
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN
Japan
TEMPERAMENT
Loyal, independent, dignified, self-assured and protective
ORIGIN
Originating in Akita Prefecture
The Japanese Akita originates from Akita Prefecture in northern Japan. Its ancestors were used to hunt large game such as wild boar, deer and Asian black bear. The breed became known for its courage, endurance and loyalty to its owner.
The Akita is one of the six native Japanese dog breeds. It was designated a Natural Monument in Japan in 1931 and remains an important symbol of Japanese culture and tradition.
BREED STANDARD
The appearance of the Japanese Akita
The Japanese Akita is a large, powerfully built dog with strong bone. Viewed from above, its head forms a blunt triangle. Its eyes are small, dark and slightly triangular, while its ears are small, erect and inclined forward. The full tail curls over the back.
Its coat has two layers: a straight outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat. Accepted colours are red, sesame, brindle and white. Coloured dogs display urajiro, the whitish markings found on the muzzle, cheeks, neck, chest and underside of the body.
TEMPERAMENT
Independent, yet deeply devoted
The Akita is alert, courageous and dignified. It forms a strong bond with its family and is usually reserved with strangers. It does not seek attention from everyone; its trust is earned through calm consistency.
Our own dogs show us just how different their personalities can be. Yoko wants to be involved in everything. Mango is more cautious, yet she is the leader of the pack. Ayaka is full of energy, loves to run and play, and is unusually open and affectionate with people for an Akita. What they share is a deep bond with their family.
LIVING WITH AN AKITA
Everyday life
The Akita is not the right breed for everyone. It needs consistent training, regular exercise and thoughtful socialisation from puppyhood. Because of its strong hunting instinct and territorial nature, it also needs a securely fenced garden.
Living with children or other animals should always be considered on an individual basis. It requires careful training, supervision and perseverance.