Facts on Akitas
- Akitas come in two styles: American & Japanese
- Japanese Akita Inus are the original, smaller framed, fox-like dogs, while American Akitas were cross-bred with German Shepherds to create more of a fighting dog with a heavier frame.
- They were used for hunting bear, wild boar and deer in Japan up until 1957.
- The American military brought the Akita/GSD mixes back with them after WWII, and began the American Akita style.
- These dogs can range anywhere from 70-130lbs.
- They are loyal companions to family and friends, but guard their property and are wary around strangers.
- They can be great with children, but typically do not do well with other dogs.
- They are one of the breeds targeted for BSL, in which they are considered “dangerous.”