What Were Akitas Bred For? History, Facts & Breed Info

What Were Akitas Bred For? Uncovering the Fascinating History and Purpose Behind This Iconic Japanese Dog Breed

Dear fellow dog lover,

Have you ever gazed into the bold, intelligent eyes of an Akita and wondered about the story behind this majestic breed? With their thick fur, powerful build, and unwavering loyalty, Akitas have captured hearts around the world. But what many don‘t realize is that the Akita‘s roots run deep in Japanese history, with a legacy that spans from fierce hunting dogs to aristocratic guardians to faithful companions.

As a veterinarian and lifelong Akita enthusiast, I want to take you on a journey through time to uncover the multi-faceted heritage of the Akita breed. By understanding what Akitas were originally bred for and how they‘ve adapted to changing roles over centuries, we can develop a richer appreciation for the special qualities that make Akitas such incredible canine partners.

Fearless Hunters of Large Game

Our story begins in the rugged, snow-capped mountains of Odate in the Akita Prefecture of northern Japan. For thousands of years, this unforgiving terrain was inhabited by Matagi hunters who developed a large, powerful dog to help them track and take down the massive wild boar, deer, and Yezo brown bears that roamed the forests.

These early Akitas, also called Odate dogs, had the strength, agility, and courage needed to face off against formidable prey. Hunting in packs, they could deftly pursue and corner game until the hunters arrived to make the final kill. Akitas were so central to the livelihood of the Matagi people that they were treated like members of the family, cementing the breed‘s famous loyalty and strong bond with humans from the very beginning.

Status Symbols and Protectors of Nobility

As Japan shifted into its feudal era, Akitas caught the attention of the imperial family and powerful samurai warriors. In the 1600s, the shogun Tokugawa Tsunayoshi was so enamored with native Japanese dog breeds like the Akita that he enacted strict laws protecting them and allowing only the nobility to own Akitas.

During this time, Akitas transitioned into a role as guards and companions to Japan‘s ruling class. Their imposing size, fearless nature, and fierce devotion made them the perfect protectors for high-ranking officials. Akitas would accompany their samurai masters into battle and defend households with their lives. As a symbol of wealth and power, Akitas enjoyed a revered status in Japanese society for centuries.

Sadly, the Akita‘s fighting prowess also made them a target for another use in the early 1900s – the blood sport of dog fighting. As Westerners introduced dog fighting to Japan, many Akitas were crossbred with mastiff-type breeds to make them more aggressive combatants. This was a dark chapter that threatened to unravel centuries of careful breeding, but thankfully dedicated Akita fanciers stepped in to save the breed from ruin.

Preserving the Akita Legacy

As foreign dog breeds gained popularity in Japan in the 1920s, a group of concerned Akita breeders came together to protect and promote the original Akita type. In 1927, they formed the Akita Inu Hozonkai (Akita Dog Preservation Society) with the mission of restoring the Akita to its native form as a versatile hunting dog and faithful companion.

These early preservation pioneers held Japan‘s first dog show for Akitas in 1932 to create a breed standard and prevent further crossbreeding. Thanks to their tireless efforts, the Japanese government declared the Akita a protected national monument in 1931, ensuring the survival of this cherished breed.

But the Akita still faced grave danger during the hardships of World War II. With the nation facing severe food shortages, the government ordered all non-military dogs to be culled. Many Akitas were killed for their fur to line the coats of Japanese soldiers. By the war‘s end, only a few dozen purebred Akitas remained. If not for the courage of Akita lovers like Morie Sawataishi, who bred Akitas in secret in remote mountain villages, the Akita may have been lost forever.

From Japan to the World Stage

The Akita‘s rise to global fame is thanks in large part to a dog named Hachiko. Born in 1923, Hachiko became a symbol of unwavering loyalty after waiting nearly a decade at Shibuya Station for his deceased owner to return from work. Hachiko‘s vigil captured the hearts of people across Japan and a bronze statue was erected in his honor in front of the station.

Hachiko‘s story soon spread overseas, putting Akitas in the international spotlight. In 1937, the famous deaf and blind author Helen Keller visited Japan and was so moved by the Hachiko story that she expressed her wish to have an Akita of her own. The Japanese government gifted her an Akita puppy named Kamikaze, making Keller the first American to bring an Akita back to the United States.

More Akitas arrived in the US after World War II, when soldiers stationed in Japan fell in love with the breed and brought them home. These early American Akitas were bred to be larger and heavier, with more colors like black masks and pinto coats. This created a divide between the American Akita and the Japanese Akita Inu still bred in Japan today.

A Breed to Treasure

As you can see, Akitas have served many important roles throughout their long history – hunters, guardians, warriors, companions, and even national heroes. But through it all, the core characteristics that make Akitas so special have endured. An Akita is more than just a pet; they are a deeply loyal partner who will forge an unbreakable bond with their family.

When an Akita loves you, they love you wholly and completely. Whether serving as a watchful protector of the home or a gentle snuggle companion on the couch, Akitas give their hearts to their human pack. They may be independent thinkers, but Akitas live to please and will be happiest by your side.

As the proud owner of several Akitas over the years, I can personally attest to the joy and richness these dogs have brought to my life. My Akitas have gotten me through some of my darkest days with their goofy sense of humor, listening ear, and healing presence. It‘s no wonder that Akitas are consistently ranked as one of the most loyal dog breeds.

So the next time you see an Akita walking down the street or meet one in your veterinary clinic, I hope you will pause and reflect on the incredible history, culture, and purpose that have shaped this magnificent breed. By understanding an Akita‘s background as a fierce hunter, royal guardian, and faithful companion, we can see them as more than just another pet.

Akitas are a national treasure to be protected and celebrated. And it is our responsibility as Akita owners and admirers to be good stewards of their legacy, preserving the qualities that make them so special for generations to come. I hope you‘ve enjoyed this deep dive into the fascinating origins and heritage of the Akita. May we all strive to be the humans our Akitas think we are!

Warmly,
Dr. [Name], proud Akita devotee