The Japanese Akita

The Akita is a large spitz breed of dog originating from the mountainous northern regions of Japan.There are now two separate strains: "Akita Inu" or "Japanese Akita" and "American Akita" or "Akita". The Japanese strain comes in selected colors only, with all other colors considered atypical of the breed, while the American strain comes in all dog colors.

The American strain of Akita is now considered a separate breed from the Japanese Akita in many countries around the world, with the notable exceptions of Australia, the United States and Canada. In the U.S. and Canada, both strains are considered a single breed with differences in type rather than two separate breeds. During a short period, the American strain of Akita was known in some countries as the "Great Japanese Dog". Both forms of Akita are probably best known worldwide from the true story of Hachiko, a loyal Akita dog who lived in Japan before World War II. The Akita is a strong, independent and dominant breed, commonly aloof with strangers but affectionate with family members. As a breed, Akitas are generally hardy, but they have been known to suffer from various genetic conditions and be sensitive to certain drugs.

This is Lilja, our lovely Japanese Akita!