Other Names- Akita Ken, Japanese Akita

Height- males (26-28 inches), females (24-26 inches)

Weight- males (75-120 pounds), females (75-110 pounds)

Life Expectancy- 10 to 12 years

Group- Working (AKC)

Recognized By- AKC(American Kennel Club), CKC(Canadian Kennel Club), NKC(National Kennel Club), NZKC(New Zealand Kennel Club), CKC(Continental Kennel Club), FCI(Federation Cynologique Internationale), ACR(American Canine Registry), APRI(American Pet Registry Inc), KCGB(Kennel Club of Great Britain).

The Akita is originally from Akita Prefecture, a region in Northern Japan. They are considered to be the national dog of Japan. This breed was used for many jobs including guarding, hunting, and sledding.

Akitas are a large muscular breed, slightly longer than they are tall. Their nose and lips are usually black. Their tail is curled over the back. This breed has a coarse outercoat, along with thick undercoat, soft in texture. There are four colors you will commonly see on akitas, red fawn, sesame(red fawn hair with black tips, brindle, and white.

Always careful, protective, and affectionate with family members. They are known to be very good with children.Housebreaking is usually easily done, and for the most part Akitas are very clean animals.Problems may exist with obedience training as Akitas tend to be stubborn at times. Firm and consistant training is a must. They thrive on companionship and like to be with people. This is a breed that may show agressive behavior towards other animals that they consider to be less dominant.

Will do ok in an apartment provided it gets sufficient exercise on a regular basis.

Health problems known to affect this breed include:

• hip dyspalsia
• bloat
• pemphigus
• progressive retinal atrophy
• hypothyroidism
• sebaceous adenitis

Regular brushing using a firm bristle brush is required. This breed will shed heavily twice a year, and bathing is only required if necessary.