The Akita is a large breed originally developed in Japan as a hunting and working dog. They are generally considered powerful and aggressive, but loyal and affectionate with family members.

This breed (one of seven) has been designated as a national monument in Japan. The Japanese feel a spiritual attachment to the Akita; for example, an Akita statue is given to the family when a child is born. This signifies health, happiness, and long life to the child and family.

Helen Keller brought an Akita to the United States in 1937 – the first Akita to arrive in the U.S.http://www.akc.org/breeds/akita/index.cfm

The Akita is a pure breed and is susceptible to various health issues common in all pure bred dogs. Those health problems include progressive retinal atrophy,hypothyroidism, and hip dysplasia.

Akitas are part of the working breed group. They are generally considered excellent guard dogs and loyal pets, but are not recommended around small children or other dogs.Next Day Pets:Akita

The Akita is renowned for its ability to hunt big game such as Elk, boar and even the 800 pound Yezo Bear.CanisMajor.comHistory of the breed

Although considered a good watchdog, the Akita generally doesn't bark unless he feels something is wrong. This dog is happy being an only dog or one of two dogs in a household and care needs to be taken when the Akita is around other dogs as he wants to be 'top dog' and may become aggressive toward other dogs.http://www.canismajor.com/dog/akita.html

Midwest Akita Rescue Society http://www.akitas.org/

Akita Rescue Society of Florida

http://www.arsf.org/

TikiHut Akita Rescue Association http://www.tikihutakitarescue.com/