Collection: Personalised Akita Gifts

Before Akita’s were given their name, they were known as ‘snowy mountain dogs’ in Japan. Originating in the snowy mountain regions of the North, Akitas were skilled hunters. They now hold a spiritual significance in Japan, as they signify health, prosperity and a long, happy life.

You may have heard of the story of Hachikō, a Japanese Akita who showed ultimate loyalty to its owner. Hachikō’s owner passed away whilst at work, yet the dedicated pooch continued to visit Shibuya train station, where his owner commuted from, each day for 9 years.

Japanese Akitas were trained to hunt wild boar and bears. They were also considered companions to the Samurai from the 16th to the 19th century. Their webbed toes ensured they were able to walk evenly across snowy terrains. They were so highly regarded that, in the 1600s, ‘compassion laws’ were enforced that prevented members of the public from owning an Akita! Instead, they were to be owned exclusively by the aristocratic ruling class. In 1931, the Japanese government officially declared the Akita a natural monument.

There are both American and Japanese Akitas. They have many similarities, with the main difference being that the American breed are bigger and heavier, normally with a black coat rather than the white and orange typical of the Japanese.

The fearless and independent nature of the Akita makes it very well suited to the guard dog role. Naturally, they are dominant and stubborn. Don’t mistake this for them being overly aggressive, though, as they rarely bark. However, if they sense that their owner is in danger, you can be sure they will kick up a fuss! They have a devout loyalty to family members and reserve their affection for their owners. So long as they are trained with care, the Akita will make a lifelong loyal buddy

Height	Male - 64-70 cm Female - 58-64 cm
Weight	Male - 32-39 kg Female - 23-29 kg
Other names	Akita Inu, American Akita, Japanese Akita
Origin	Japan - from the mountainous regions in the North
Coat	Double-coated, short, dense
Colour	White, red, ginger, black, brindle
Eye Colour	Dark brown
Life Expectancy	10-15 years
Health Issues	Bloat (GDV), Cataracts, Entropion, Glaucoma, Hip dysplasia, Hypothyroidism, Sebaceous adenitis, VKH type syndrome
Care Tips	Socialisation training is needed from a young age (as they can be suspicious of strangers) Give your Akita plenty of exercise They can get over-excited when they spot an animal, so it’s advised to keep them on a lead in public places