Akita inu information about dogs

The breed of dog from the movie "Hachiko: The Most Loyal Friend" is the Akita Inu, after which the popularity of the previously unknown breed skyrocketed. The film is based on the true story of the dog Hachiko, a dog who for ten years came to the train station every day and waited for his deceased owner. Akita Inu is still popular. This dog is truly fearless, completely confident in himself, and will show unwavering loyalty to his family.

Origin

Among the breeds of dogs, whose history goes back centuries, the Akita Inu stands out. Akita is a prefecture in northern Japan, and inu is Japanese for dog. In Asia, these dogs were favorite pets at court, and over time, the Akita Inu began to enjoy the privileges of the nobility. The first mentions of Akita dogs date back to the 1600s, when they guarded royalty and were used to hunt birds. Keeping, feeding and caring for the Akita Inu turned into a whole ceremony. Each dog had its own personal servant. For them, special collars and leashes were even made, by which it was possible to recognize the rank of the dog and the position of its owner in society. Everything around met the respect that the Akita Inu enjoyed.

The Akita Inu is the largest Japanese Spitz dog. For a long time, these dogs were used for hunting mainly large animals such as wild boar, deer and bear. Archaeological data, which resulted in the discovery of the remains of Spitz dogs dating back to about the 2nd millennium BC, and the results of genetic studies have shown that the Akita is one of the 14 oldest dog breeds. Preserved ancient drawings depicting dogs, reminiscent of modern Akitas. Initially, Akita Inu were pets in the families of peasants, and later they were raised in status, becoming pets of aristocrats and even in the imperial house. The pet of this breed has become completely inaccessible to ordinary people. There was even a law punishing Akita Inu offenders. To preserve and develop hunting qualities in Japan in the 6th century, clubs for lovers of these dogs were founded. They drew up instructions for keeping, breeding, training. In the 15th century, herd books were established, in which the name, origin, color and other information were recorded.

Originally Japanese dogs were small to medium in size. Since 1603, Akita Matagis have been used for dog fighting in Akita County. Since 1868, they were crossed with mastiffs, as a result of which the size of the dogs increased, but the characteristic features of the spitz-like type were lost. Despite the fact that in 1908 dog fighting was banned, the breed survived and improved, becoming a Japanese breed of large dogs, and nine of its prominent representatives in 1931 were named "Natural Monuments".

This valiant breed was brought to America by Helen Keller. The Japanese, in tribute to Helen, showed her a statue of Hachiko located at Shibuya Station and told her his story. When Helen expressed her desire to have her own Akita puppy, this puppy became the first of the breed to be introduced to America. Keller was delighted with the dog, but unfortunately the dog died of the plague. Upon hearing this news, the Japanese government officially introduced Helen to his older brother.

After World War II, returning American troops who were stationed in Japan brought in many more Akita dogs since 1956. Ultimately, the American Akita appeared, which became more robust and stronger than the Japanese. However, adherents of the Japanese standard also remained. This split led to years of battle and a delay in the development of the American standard. It wasn't until 1972 that the American Akita was admitted to the American Kennel Club.

At the beginning of the 20th century, a special society was created to preserve this breed. This contributed to the fact that she remained pristine. The rarity of this breed also lies in the fact that it is purebred, without crossing with representatives of other breeds.

During World War II, Akita Inu breeding ceased and most of the dogs were sent to the front. In Japan, there are only a few purebred representatives of the breed, but the dog handlers still managed to preserve and restore it at the same level.

Description of the breed

Akitu-Inu have a strong, proportional physique, with a heavy bone and fairly well-developed muscles. Bitches weigh 32–45 kg, males 40–45 kg; Height at withers: 64–70 cm in males and 58–64 cm in bitches. The color of a thoroughbred dog can be varied, there are white, fawn, red, brindle, piebald Akitas. There is one requirement for all - the color must be clear, the drawing is clear, streaks and blurring of lines are not allowed. The coat of these dogs is of medium length, with a developed, thick and soft undercoat. Often these dogs are compared to cats: their coat looks impeccable and there is no specific dog smell at all. The musculature is very developed and requires regular training.

The guard hair of the Akita is hard and straight, the undercoat is thick and soft. The coat on the shoulder blades and "trousers" is slightly longer than on other parts of the body. Longest hair on the tail. Akita hair should be in three layers. The longest hairs make up the top, coarsest layer of the coat. There is also a coarse but shorter coat and a soft undercoat. All three layers must be present for the coat to be correct. The structure and length of the coat makes a significant contribution to the appearance and greatly influences the impression made by the dog.

Character

The Akita Inu is a large and brave dog with a rather powerful appearance: with a large head and contrastingly small triangular eyes, self-confident and with a firm stance. This breed is famous for its unwavering loyalty to its owners and amazing affection for family members. Imagine a reliable and loving protector who will follow you from room to room and whose whole purpose in life is to serve only you.

Being a primordially Japanese breed, the Akita Inu has absorbed the peculiarities of the oriental temperament. Restrained and calm in the presence of strangers, often shows alertness, becomes good-natured and sociable in her family. Dogs of this breed have impeccable manners, which makes them wonderful family members. Patient and affectionate towards children. Very loyal to the owner. But, despite their loyalty and dedication, Akita Inu have a strong character and willpower, so training such dogs is not easy. This breed is best suited for experienced dog breeders, as an ordinary person may not cope with her temper and harm the dog. However, adorable with family members, these dogs will be aloof and silent when visiting. Akita Inu are naturally wary of strangers, although they will be quite welcoming to guests of the house while the owners are in it.

The Akita Inu is a brave and wayward dog, fearful of strangers, but very loyal to her family. She is always alert, smart and courageous. Akita is usually aggressive towards other dogs, especially of the same sex. This breed is best suited for single dog families.

In the family, the Akita Inu is affectionate and playful, she is happy to participate in all family affairs. This dog loves to play with toys and various household items. Despite the general belief that the Akita never barks, it is actually quite noisy, and can grumble and moan, and, if necessary, bark loudly.

It should be borne in mind that the personality of the Akita can be overwhelming. This dog is not suitable for beginners or timid owners. She needs a firm and consistent master who will provide the required level of discipline.

The natural protective instinct of the Akita sometimes causes the dog to become aggressive, so training and proper socialization of the breed is essential from an early age. Akita is very stubborn and it will take a lot of patience to teach her the necessary manners.

Adults should always monitor interactions between these dogs and children. No child can have a more loyal friend and protector than an Akita, but we must remember that it is extremely important to teach a child to be respectful and kind in any contact with a dog.

Teaching an Akita can be challenging and will require understanding, patience, and experience. It is best to work with a trainer who is familiar with the breed, but self-training is also important. Akitu are distinguished by their independence and autonomy. If there are no appropriate skills, then it will not be easy to train a pet. For success in this matter, the owner will have to show perseverance, and in some places even exactingness, so that the dog obeys and recognizes the authority of the person. Physical strength in this matter does not play any role, only the strength of the spirit is important.

You can buy a puppy of this beautiful breed from breeders or in a specialized kennel, since only in this case you are guaranteed to get not only a beautiful dog, but also a friend with good genetics. When choosing a puppy, you should pay attention to the following: 1) it is recommended to choose an animal from a small litter, where all the puppies are of medium size; 2) ask the breeder to familiarize you with the dog's pedigree; Find out about the availability of awards, as well as possible genetic diseases and allergies; 3) you can learn more about the appearance and character of a future friend by getting to know his parents; 4) a healthy puppy is mobile, has a good appetite, playful character, shiny eyes, smooth coat and clean ears.

Care

Taking care of the Akita Inu is easy. It can be kept both indoors and outdoors. You should not bathe your dog often, once or twice a year is usually enough. It is recommended to comb out wool a couple of times a week to reduce the amount of wool in the house. The main thing for this dog is daily walks.

The Akita Inu is a fun and active dog and needs a lot of daily exercise. A 30 minute walk a day will be sufficient for the Akita, but the walks should be brisk and possibly accompanied by jogging. Visiting the park with your dog is probably not a good idea as the Akita can be aggressive towards other dogs.

Due to the high level of intelligence of this breed, it will require changes in its daily life. If the Akita gets bored, it can lead to behavioral problems such as excessive barking, digging, chewing and aggression. Take Akita to family events and don't leave her alone for extended periods of time.

A secure and fenced yard fence is also essential to keep strangers and strangers safe from mistakenly entering their territory. At the same time, Akitas are usually not aggressive towards guests if there are owners in the house. These dogs are real defenders and will protect the owner from anything they perceive as a threat.

Akita feels great both in a city apartment and on the street, in an aviary. Its coat does not require complex maintenance - it is enough to comb it once a week. During seasonal moulting, comb more often, 3-4 times a week. It is not recommended to cut the Akita, but it is necessary to bathe about 2-3 times a year, using special shampoos. Brushing your teeth is required every few days, and clipping the dog's claws 1-2 times a month. Dogs of this breed should not be bathed often, as frequent bathing can provoke the development of various diseases. It is quite enough to carry out the procedure every 4-6 months. It is necessary to use special detergents, and after washing, the wool must be dried.

Particular attention should be paid to Akita when raising puppies. These dogs grow rapidly between four and seven months of age, making them prone to bone damage. They live well on a quality low-calorie diet that will keep them from overgrowing. Also, do not let your puppy run and play on hard surfaces such as asphalt, playing on grass is better for them. Avoid forced jumping and running on hard surfaces for at least two years, when his joints are fully formed.

Feeding

For the formation of a healthy musculoskeletal system, the development of a strong psyche, strong immunity and a beautiful exterior, it is very important to remember about proper nutrition. After all, it is the food consumed by the animal that carries the same nutrients into the body that will form the basis of the developing organism and will maintain the dog's health for many years of life.