The Akita is dignified, independent and loyal.
It is also strong, athletic and an excellent guard. They are devoted
to their family and their relationship with children is usually
good. A breed which has a tendency to dominate other dogs. Description
& History The Akita is the national dog of Japan and comes from
a province of the same name on Honshu Island. It is a member of
the Spitz group and the largest of all the Japanese Spitz breeds
(the other breeds are - the Sanchu, the Shiba, the Shika and Ainu).
An ancient breed which is known to have been pure-bred
since the seventeenth century. At the beginning of the eighteenth
century the Akita was owned mostly by the aristocracy. Owing to
the wealth of the families who owned them, the majority of these
dogs lived in superb conditions. It was during this period that
a law was passed to prevent dogs being killed or injured - the punishment
for such an act was death or imprisonment.
During the Meiji period (1868 - 1912), however,
their life changed. Dog fighting became popular in Japan, as it
had been in feudal times, and almost rendered the breed extinct.
Shortly before the Second World War, efforts were made to put the
breed on a more secure footing, only for it to be seriously depleted
again during the hostilities.
Akitas,like other Japanese breeds were used for
their fur and meat during this period. Only a few dogs survived
the war and the breed once more faced extinction. It was Mr Ichinoseki
- who had been a supporter of the Akita for many years - that came
to their rescue and started a breeding programme to re-establish
the breed.
The Akita, a silent hunter, was used in the past
for hunting game such as bear, wild boar and deer. The breed was
introduced to the West in 1937. Today's dogs are seen in the show
ring and are used for police work and guard duties.
For further information or to discuss a
commission please contact Sally Logue Animal Portrait Artist
Kirkoswald, Penrith, Cumbria,CA10 1EH United Kingdom Tel:01768 898495