2019-08-07
History of the Akita-Inu
Do you know of the Japanese breed Akita-inu (dog)? The Akita-inu is probably most known because of hackiko in Shibuya! Let’s find out about the Akita-inu together today.
Characteristics of Akita-inu
Usually, the suffix 犬 is pronounced as “ken” after a dog breed name, but in case of Akita, it is pronounced as “inu”. They are classified as large dogs with long legs and strong bones. With a short double-coat and triangular ears are thicker than the other breeds, both these features protect the Akita-inu from the tough cold weather of Akita.
History of Akita-inu
In the 1600s, Akita Matagi dogs were used in dog fights and for hunting.
However, over time, the Tosa-inu became larger than the Akita-inu resulting in the Akita dogs losing popularity. To preserve the Akita-inu, the government initiated the Natural Monument program in 1919. Several times, the Akita-inu was said to be close to extinction.
During the war, they sent military dogs to the army which resulted in crossbreeding and there were less than 20 pure Akita dogs after the war.
During the 1960s, another initiative for pure bred Akita-inu took place and now there is no worry of the Akita-inu becoming extinct.
Akita is widely known in Japan after being broadcast on the radio about the story of “Hachiko, a charismatic dog” who waited for the master who left the world in front of Shibuya Station.
The behavior of the Akita dog, which is immensely loyal, resonated with people and a statue was built at Shibuya Station. Since then, it has become very popular with its fuzzy hair and faint facial expressions, and more people are interested in overseas.
Differences between Akita-inu and Shiba-inu
Akita-inu and Shiba-inu are completely different in size. Akita-inu are classified as large while Shiba-inu is small.
Body height of Akita-inu: 60 – 70cm / Body height of Shiba-inu: 35 – 40cm
Both Shiba and Akita-inu are extremely loyal to their owners. The Akita-inu has a temperament that has been used for dog training even though it has been improved, and the Shiba-inu is a dog that was raised and bred as a housekeeping dog. Since the Akita-inu is intelligent and apparently get bored easily, its not for everyone to have one as a pet due to its high demands in terms of exercise.
Although the Akita-inu is a difficult to breed, this soft, fuzzy fur ball is too cute! When you go to Akita prefecture, don’t miss a change to be greeted here by an Akita-inu!
