Akita Breed

Description : The largest of the Japanese Spitz-type breeds, the Akita, pronounced a-KEE-ta, is a powerful, solid, well-proportioned and distinctive looking dog. Strong and muscular with a flat, heavy head and strong, short muzzle. The Akita is slightly longer than he is tall with a broad, deep chest and level back. The head is broad and shaped like a blunt triangle. The stop is well-defined and there is a shallow groove going up the center of the forehead. The small, erect ears are carried forward and in line with the neck. The small, triangular eyes are dark brown. The nose is generally black (brown is permitted on white Akita's, but black is preferred); the lips are black and the tongue is pink. The teeth should meet in a scissors, or level bite (scissors is preferred by most breeders). The tail is carried high and curled over the back. The Akita has webbed, cat-like feet - which makes it a fine swimmer. The double coat is composed of a harsh, waterproof outer coat insulated with a thick, soft undercoat. Coat colors are pure white, red, sesame and brindle. The colors should be without clear borders. A black mask is forbidden.

Breeders [122]

Clubs [13]

Pictures [6]

Akita Inu : Akita history with some very interesting early photos, literature, links, more, from Media-Akita in Japan. In English.

Akita Question & Answer Forum : Message board for everyone who has an interest in the breed.

Akita Web Ring : How to join.

Akita-Talk : Akita E-Mail list for discussion of all things having to do with Akitas. Instructions for joining.

American Akita Preservation League : Site dedicated to the preservation of the American Akita as a separate breed from its Japanese counterpart and explains the differences between the two.

Finding A Responsible Breeder : Good information about finding an ethical breeder, asking the right questions and choosing a puppy.

Origins of the Akita : History of the Akita from Japan Kennel Club.

Standard for Akitas : Official AKC breed standard.