The Akita - the regal companion
		by BUDDY AMATO
		There are many medium sized breeds in the country of Japan..but only one large breed. The Akita! The Akita was classified as all dogs in Japan according to its size. The word `Akita' translates to "large", and the word `Shika' translates to "small". The Akita is a breed that originated in Japan. It is the largeste of all Japanese dogs and was bred for pit fighting. When pit fighting declined due to public outcry, the breed was then used for hunting instead. The Akita can be an even-tempered dog, however, the breed can be very difficult to handle. This is not a dog that can be thought of as a normal housedog. It needs a lot of work and a strong person in the home to train it. The male of the breed, is, for the most part, other-dog aggressive but there are exceptions to the rule. It is a dog that generally will not tolerate another dog, unless it was raised a pup with the other dog and they grew up together. As I said, there are, as like any other bred, exceptions to the rule. But please do remember that this is a dog that can weigh up to 100 pounds and is known for being headstrong. It is not a dog for a small apartment or for a small stature person who cannot dominate the animal as far as training purposes go. This breed, if trained right, simply has no equals due to its ability to make an excellent watch dog and for general protection. The mere look will make the biggest of the bad guys want to go the other way. The Akita almost became extinct during the 1930s but the breed's survival was assured by the formation of the Society for the Preservation of Japanese Breeds. Physically, the Akita's coat is thick and has a fine undercoat. The tail is very strong and is carried over its back; a visual characteristic of this breed. The elbows fit snugly to the massive body and the eyes of an Akita seem to stare right through you. They are one of the most regal dogs known, and again, if trained properly, have few equals in the canine world with regards to strength and pure intimidation. Did you know? That the breed originated around 1600? That the Akita lives up to 12 years? That the other name for Akita is Akita Inu? That the most common colors are brown and white with a dark face? Grandmaster Buddy Amato operates Amato's Karate and Weapons Academy, 589 Palmer Avenue, West Keansburg and is the author of Buddys Animal Kingdom. For more information, call (732) 671-9555. Return to top More Columns Copyright Buddy Amato Amato's Goju-ryu Karate, Nunchaku, Bo-staff, Aikido, Sword, Kendo, Sais, Kick-boxing, Tai-Chi and more 589 Palmer Ave, Keansburg and is the author of Buddys Animal Kingdom, NJ 07734 (732) 671-9555