American Akita

Coming directly from Japan, the American Akita or Great Japanese Shepherd Dog shares his history with the Japanese Akita. Coming from the Akita region, in the 15th century, medium-sized dogs called Akita Matagis were widely used at that time as fighting and hunting dogs, and especially bear hounds.

Starting in 1868, Matagi Akitas were crossed with Mastiffs and Tosa. The result was a larger dog, but one that lost many characteristics of the Spitz, his ancestors.

After the ban on dog fighting was introduced in 1908, the breed was then preserved and improved as a large Japanese breed and was later designated as "historical monument" in Japan.

Between 1939 and 1945, during the Second World War, it was common practice to use dog skins to make soldiers' clothing. The capture of all dogs was then ordered except for the German Shepherds.

Soldiers reserved the German Shepherds for other military tasks. Some enthusiasts and lovers of the breed then tried to save their dogs by crossing them with German Shepherds.

After the end of the war, the remaining number of Akitas was dangerously low. The types that survived were then divided into three different kinds: Matagi Akitas, Akitas/German Shepherds and fighting Akitas. The breed was severely disrupted during this dark period of history.

The restoration of the breed began with the end of the war. The American military forces brought back specimens with characteristics of the Mastiff and German Shepherd Dog.

The Americans were impressed by their great capacity to adapt and this led to a huge popularity that favored the development of the bloodline.

In 1956, the American Akita Club was created and the breed was officially accepted in 1972 by the AKC (American Kennel Club). Due to the lack of communication between Japan and the United States at the time, the American Akita later became totally different from the Japanese Akita.

The breed developed in his unique form, whose traits have remained the same since 1955. The American Akita became a less typical but much more spectacular breed. The breed became totally independent in 1999.

This beautiful and very special specimen is exclusively a companion dog compatible with all family situations. He is also appreciated as a show dog and can easily be used for guarding and protection. He excels in his functions as he is very efficient without ever being unnecessarily aggressive.