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Akita Inu - 10 curiosities
Of medium size, it can be both for hunting and for guarding, but whoever owns it, or is even just passionate about it, will already know it; perhaps less known is the fact that after the Shiba, the Akita is the breed with the closest genetic heritage to the wolf.
1
The Akita Inu is a dog breed originating in Japan and falls into the category of Japanese spitz-type dogs.
Its exact origin is not entirely clear, but the breed is believed to have around 3,000 years of history.
Throughout its history, the Akita Inu has undergone several genetic influences from other dog breeds, such as the Finnish Spitz, the English Mastiff and the Japanese Tosa Inu.
Over the centuries, the breed has developed into several regional varieties, each with its own distinctive characteristics, however over the course of the 20th century, the breed has declined due to the spread of disease and warfare, which has endangered the survival of the race itself.
In the 1920s, dog enthusiasts in Japan launched a breeding program
selective to preserve the Akita Inu breed, this program led to the creation of a unified breed standard and the founding of Japan's first Akita Inu club in 1927.
Since then, the Akita Inu has spread throughout the world and gained popularity as a pet and show dog.
The breed has also been used in breeding programs to create new dog breeds, such as the American Akita and Akita Shepherd.
2
The Akita Inu has been used as a hunting dog, guard dog, and fighting dog throughout its history.
As a hunting dog, the Akita Inu was used for hunting large prey such as deer and bears. The breed was mainly used on the island of Honshū, where the prey was particularly large and resistant.
As a guard dog, the Akita Inu was used to protect property and family from theft and intrusion. Thanks to its great strength and courage, the Akita Inu was considered an excellent guard dog. Additionally, his intelligence and protective instincts also made him a loyal and devoted companion dog.
Dog fighting was an illegal and cruel practice, but sadly it was common in many countries, including Japan and the United States. During the 19th and 20th centuries, the Akita Inu was often crossed with other dog breeds to increase its aggression and physical strength, in order to make it more competitive in fights.
However, in the 1930s, Japanese Emperor Hirohito issued a decree banning dog fighting and other forms of cruelty to animals. This decree led to the end of dog fighting in Japan and the resumption of the selective breeding program to preserve the Akita Inu breed.
3
The Akita Inu has a dominant personality and needs an owner who is able to establish his or her authority consistently and patiently.
Today, the Akita Inu is primarily bred as a companion and show dog, and is known for its loyalty and intelligence. However, it's important to note that the breed can be dominant and territorial, so it's vital to train him properly and socialize him as a puppy to avoid behavior problems.
4
The Akita Inu is generally not a breed that particularly loves water
However, there are some exceptions and many of the breed can learn to enjoy swimming and water with the proper training.
The origin of the breed and its historical use as a hunting dog may have influenced its attitude towards water, the 'Akita Inu was bred mainly for hunting terrestrial wildlife, so it was never necessary for it to adapt to aquatic environments.
5
The breed is well known for its loyalty to the owner and its attachment to the family.
6
The breed has a thick, soft coat that requires regular grooming to avoid knotting
The Akita Inu has a thick, dense coat that protects it from cold temperatures, but this same coat can make it more sensitive to heat and humidity. In general, Akita Inu have difficulty regulating their body temperature when in very hot environments and can become easily fatigued or dehydrated.
It is therefore important to take the right precautions during the summer months to ensure the well-being of your Akita Inu. Make sure you provide your dog with constant access to fresh water and avoid exercising during the hottest part of the day. If possible, try to keep your Akita Inu in cool, well-ventilated areas
7
The Akita Inu has a curved tail and an elegant, regal gait.
This tail carriage is called "saburō gari" in Japanese.
There are several theories about the origin of this feature. Some argue that the Akita Inu's curved tail is the result of crossbreeding with spitz breeds, such as the Finnish Spitz, others argue that the Akita Inu's curved tail is a specific genetic trait of the breed.
8
The Akita Inu has been described as a "two-faced" dog due to their very different personalities depending on the situation. He is known to be calm and reserved indoors, but very active and energetic outdoors.
9
The Akita Inu is a highly intelligent breed and needs regular mental and physical stimulation to avoid boredom and destructive behavior.
The Akita Inu can benefit from activities such as long walks, jogging, hiking, leash running or even participating in sports such as agility or Canicross.
Many Akita Inu families enjoy going on treks or hikes in parks or woodlands, where the dog can explore his surroundings and enjoy the outdoors.
It's important to keep in mind that the Akita Inu has a robust physique and great strength, so it's important to avoid exercises that could put too much pressure on his joints or bones, especially if your dog is still growing or has any pre-existing health problems. It is also, it is important to provide your Akita Inu with enough rest and to recover after exercise, especially if it involves strenuous physical activities.
10
Hachiko, the famous Akita Inu who waited for his dead master at the Shibuya train station for nine years, was commemorated with a bronze statue at the Shibuya train station.
In addition to the statue was dedicated to him the "Day of Hachiko" (Hachiko no Hi) is celebrated every year on March 8, this date marks the day Hachiko died in 1935.
Commemorating this day is an occasion to remember Hachiko's love and loyalty, and to celebrate the special relationship between man and dog. During "Hachiko Day", many people gather at the famous Hachiko statue at Shibuya Station in Tokyo, where Hachiko awaited the return of his owner every day.
"Hachiko Day" has become a national event in Japan, and many people around the world have learned about the story of Hachiko thanks to the films, books and documentaries that have told the story. Hachiko's loyalty and love towards her owner has inspired many people around the world to see dogs not just as pets, but as friends and lifelong faithful companions.
My Akita inu in 925 silver and reproducible in gold
