Japanese Akita — size comparison

The Japanese Akita is a large spitz with a powerful body, upright ears and a thick tail curled over the back. It has a broad forehead, a moderately short muzzle and a dense coat that stands away from the body. In red and brindle dogs, paler hair on the cheeks, underside of the muzzle and body forms the characteristic urajiro markings. Its stance is upright and its movement calm and purposeful.

The breed comes from Akita in northern Japan, where local dogs took part in activities including bear hunting. Crossing with Tosas and mastiffs in the nineteenth century changed their size and appearance. Later preservation efforts aimed to restore the native type. After the Second World War, Japanese and American breeders developed their dogs in different directions, eventually leading to recognition as separate breeds.

Akitas are usually reserved with strangers and deeply attached to those close to them. They often choose when to make contact and how to show affection. They may watch their surroundings calmly for long periods, yet react quickly and firmly to moving game or an unfamiliar dog. They do not constantly seek new tasks. Independence, memory of daily routines and clear personal preferences are prominent in their relationships with people.

Measurement sources

• Wzorzec, wzrost i umaszczenie
• Masa samców
• Codzienne potrzeby