AKITA INU - Características, comportamiento y cuidados

The Akita Nu, also called the Japanese Akita or simply the Akita, is probably the best known and most beloved Japanese breed. It was made hugely popular by the film Hachiko starring Richard Ginny. Since then the Akita has been known as an extremely loyal dog, if not the most loyal dog in the world. Below we will talk about this special breed, revealing its origins, its true character and and the details we should take into account when training it. In the year 163, the dogs that came from the Akita region were known as Matagi Akitas and were used for two centuries as fighting dogs. Later, in the mid-19th century, they were crossed with Mastiff and Tosa dogs, which contributed to an increase in the size of these dogs. In the 20th century, when dog fighting was banned, the breed was developed and in 1931 the Ekitanu was designated a historical monument. During World War II, these dogs practically disappeared as the government ordered the capture of all dogs except for German shepherds, which were military dogs to make warm clothing. Almost on the verge of extinction, several breeders returned to look for specimens and carried out several crosses to return the breed to its original standard, the one we know today. Large in size, balanced and of strong build. We can see that it has pointed ears, a curled tail and a double layered coat which can be red fawn, red sesame brindle or white. Males have a height at the withers of around 67 cm, while females are around 61 cm at the withers. Although we could say that loyalty is the best known behavioral characteristic of the breed, the Echitanou surprises in many other aspects. It is a calm, docile and receptive dog that forms a very strong bond with its owner and in general, with all members of the family unit. They can get along well with all types of people and pets if you pay attention to their socialization stage, something we will mention later in the education section. The Akitanu is a dog that requires daily brushing as well as regular baths to keep their coat in good condition. They will also need to pay attention to other more specific care, such as brushing their teeth, cleaning their ears and emptying their anal glands if necessary. All of this will help us prevent the onset of certain diseases. On the other hand, the Akita is an active dog, so we will offer them a minimum of two to three walks a day, which we must also combine with physical exercise and mental stimulation. This is the only way to fight.