The Magnificent Akita Inu: A Japanese Treasure
The Physical Attributes of the Akita Inu
The Akita Inu, a large fox – like dog breed native to Japan, also known as the Japanese Akita Inu, is a remarkable canine. It is of medium – sized build. Male dogs stand between 66.0 – 71.1 centimeters in height, while females are 61.0 – 66.0 centimeters tall. Its tail curls forward and lies close to its back, and it has erect ears. The body structure is compact, powerful, with a solid bone structure. Its coat comes in various colors, including white, with patterns or spots. This dog is not only valiant but also has acute senses, loyalty, and high intelligence.
The Origin and Historical Role of the Akita Inu
The birthplace of the Akita Inu is Akita Prefecture. The northern part of this region is mountainous, and the winters are bitterly cold. The Akita Inu has had a significant impact and holds a dominant position among Japanese dog breeds. In the past, only the nobility were allowed to train this breed for hunting wild bears, deer, and Japanese black bears. They also served as fighting dogs. In modern times, the Akita Inu can be used as police and military dogs, and it is also an excellent guard and family pet. In Japan, the Akita Inu is a dog with national historical and cultural significance. It is the national dog of Japan and is world – famous for “Hachiko the Faithful Dog”. It is the only large – sized dog among the national natural monuments designated by Japan.
The Evolution of the Akita Inu Breed
The Akita Inu’s ancestors were mountain hunting dogs. Originally, there were no large – sized Japanese dogs, and the Akita Inu was a medium – sized bear – hunting dog. Besides assisting in bear hunting, it was also used to hunt deer and wild boars. During the Edo period, the Akita region in the northern part of Dewa Province was pacified by the Satake clan. The Satake clan was a collateral feudal lord transferred from Hitachi Province after the Battle of Sekigahara. Since around 1630 during the Keichō period, in order to cultivate the fighting spirit of the feudal vassals, hunting dogs were crossed with local dogs in the Akita region. This became the original breed of the Akita Inu.
