akita japan dog

He is said to have been very fond of the Akita-inu supplied to him by Nakagawa, and ordered a second from the breeder when the first passed away. The Japanese Akit… The closer the dogs are to the standard, the higher they are ranked. The original statue was requisitioned for war materiel in World War II, making this the second incarnation. In the center is Kōgyoku-megō, a female born in January 2017. Kōgyoku-megō displays her graceful stance. Traditional bands of matagi hunters have operated in the northern Tōhoku region for centuries, using dogs to chase down prey like bears and deer. Nakagawa saw his first Akita-inu more than five decades ago at the age of 29. The government more recently took steps to preserve the Akita breed, which is now regarded as a National Treasure. Japanese and American bloodlines diverged so much that they are now considered two different breeds everywhere in the world except for the United States and Canada. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children , all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Iyataka Shrine, which is probably the biggest shine in Akita City, was built in 1881 and is currently located inside the Senshu Park, and both the main and the inner shrines remain the property of Akita Prefecture. Try our Dog Breed Selector and find out which dog breeds better match your preferences and lifestyle. Akita Inu under the name of "Takasaki Yamaguchi" Kennel. You may have heard of Japanese dog breeds from the film Hachi, staring Richard Gere and an Akita Dog. The breed is so beloved in Japan that the parents of newborn children often receive an Akita figurine as a gift that symbolizes happiness and a long life. When dog-fighting was in its heyday in the Edo period (1603–1868), Akita-inu were often cross-bred with larger dogs. Ryūfū-gō, a male with brindle fur born in July 2014. “I think they are suited to cold parts of Russia and Europe. Akita dog born in my kennel "GRACE GARDEN", They give a full confidence to the master and have a good relationship to the master, The legend of Hachikō began with a newspaper story that moved the nation. Nakagawa with dogs outside his place of business. A qualified judge, Nakagawa explains how the dogs stand for assessment. There have been ups and downs for this breed and here is a few information about the bloodiest part of Akitas' rich and colorful history. There are now some 2,000 Akita-inu across the country, but the breed has faced numerous extinction crises. The Akita Inu (秋田犬?) He became known as an Akita-inu expert. The standard measurements for an Akita-inu encompass the following specifications. Please try again or come back a little later. The coat should be kept well groomed two or three times a week to bring out the best in it, and, twice a year, during heavy moults, a metal, double-toothed comb should be used. Specifically, from the Akita prefecture. The Akita Inu is one of the 6 native Japanese dog breeds that are under the protection of the NIPPO organization for preserving the native Japanese dog breeds. Their hunting instincts are strong and this must be remembered at all times. Nakagawa keeps his dogs in shape with running training. The Akita Inu is the largest of the Spitz breeds from Japan, with a lengthy history not unlike that of the Shiba Inu. Japan’s Most Famous Dog Breed: The Akita-inu, Address: 2-12-9 Nishikagaya, Suminoe-ku, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture. But the Akita breed didn’t appear in documents until the early 17th century. They are more about preserving the breed than competing over individual beauty. “I was drawn by their natural beauty. The Society for Preservation of Japanese Dogs was then formed for the purpose of preserving the native breeds, which were all declared national monuments. That story perfectly captures the Akita’s temperament; wholeheartedly loyal. Background. Their proud head carriage and stance is enhanced by their small ears and dark eyes. They were originally used for guarding royalty and nobility in feudal Japan. The hind legs should also be in parallel. Top #4 fun facts of akita dog. Snuggle with adorable Akita Inus at Akita Dog Visitor Centre There are many things I love in the world, and what constantly tops the list is one thing: Dogs. And when you find your new pup, tell us a bit more about them to get a discount off one of our puppy ranges and regular personalised puppy advice. As with many breeds the Japanese Akita can suffer from hereditary eye disorders and hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). While staying there, Nakagawa grew to be crazy about dogs himself and started a business. They range from 3-month-old puppies to 10-month-old dogs that are already larger than medium-sized adults of other breeds. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them. Suzuyo is nervous on her first visit to the park. Barks, alerts and it's physically protective, May require training to live with other pets. They faithfully follow their owners’ instructions. “Cool Traditions” Stay in Tune with Modern Life. They shed fur in warm climates, so hotter places are not really good for them.”. However, when the Japanese (and European) dog-fighting sport lost favour, the dogs were then employed for hunting. Discover the charm of Odate, the birthplace of Akita inu (inu is the Japanese word for dog) at the Akita Dog Visitor Centre. It can be found in two styles, the American style allows for all coat colors The. Akita dog Odate is also home to the Akita dog, a popular breed that became the first designated Natural Monument of Japan. Hachikō the golden brown Akita was born on Nov. 10, 1923, on a farm located in Japan’s Akita Prefecture.. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in January. Akita-inu have a high level of basic athleticism. No, says Nakagawa. Contact The Kennel Club or a breed-club secretary who may have a list of litters available, or should be able to put you in contact with breeders in your area. The original Akitas were used for guarding, big game hunting, and, starting in the 1600s, dog fighting. To celebrate the year of the dog in 2018, this article presents one of Japan’s most famous breeds, the Akita-inu. They are, however, very loyal to their own family. Umeko-gō, a female with white fur born in April 2011. When taking the dog out for a walk, it is best to have it on a dog leash. This was based on the true story of a Japanese Dog who waited for his owner every day to return from his commute at the train station. We talk to Nakagawa Jitarō, a specialist breeder with over 50 years of experience. Try to choose a breeder who is part of the Kennel Club’s assured breeder scheme.Visit dog shows to meet breeders in person and inquire about availability of pups of your chosen breed. Akita matagi-inu were used in breeding to remove traits of other dogs. The weight range is 34-50kg. Her legs are spread apart, and her ears have fallen flat. He has been raising the distinctive Japanese breed for 55 years. By registering you consent for Nestlé Purina Petcare UK&I and its Affiliates to process your personal data. Two years later, he became an official examiner for the same group. The Akita is a very popular and highly regarded dog breed originating from the northern region of Japan. A successful 2009 adaptation, Hachi: A Dog's Tale, starring Richard Gere, transplanted the story to the United States and raised the profile of the Akita-inu around the world. Nakagawa says that Akita-inu fur grows well in chilly environments. 23:14:11. The Akita Inu dog breed has a rich history and a long one. The classic example of the faithful Akita-inu is Hachikō, now a symbol of Shibuya Station. When I enter Nakagawa’s place of business, I am greeted by Akita-inu with ears pointing upward and curling tails. The Akita Inu or also called Japanese Akita is a dog breed that comes from Japan, Asia, and in its native country, it is considered a national treasure. It was originally used to hunt wild boar, elk and bear, holding the prey at bay until the hunters arrived for the kill. I believe it’s important to draw out dogs’ inherent strengths rather than try to eliminate any faults. One day, his owner, Ueno, died; not returning on his usual commute and Hachiko, the Japanese Akita waited for 9 nine years, until his own death, for his owner to return. Staff learns all they can about the dogs they take in, and will spend time getting to know you, your family and your lifestyle, before they match you with any of their dogs. Nakagawa has provided dogs to clients in Italy, Germany, and other European countries since around 30 years ago. Some believe the dogs were originally bred for hunting wild boar, deer and black bear; others believe they were bred for pit fighting. The Akita dog breed is the largest of all the Japanese breeds and was originally bred in the province of Akita in the 1600s. In 1924, Professor Hidesaburō Ueno, who taught in the agriculture department at Tokyo Imperial University, acquired the puppy and brought him to live with him in the Shibuya neighborhood of Tokyo. The exact reason for their initial creation is still disagreed upon, as to whether … For this reason, they are often kept as guard dogs as well as pets.”. After graduating from high school and working for a time as a sailor on a cargo ship, he went to visit his sister’s home in Osaka. Osaka The photograph at the top left shows Nakagawa selling Akita-inu puppies to Stevie Wonder’s brother. In fact originally all Japanese dogs were only small to medium sized. Whether you’re bringing home a tiny puppy or rehoming an adult dog, this is a hugely exciting time for everyone. Japan is generally famous for its traditional shrines, and Akita is not an exception. The Akita Inu is the largest of the six native Nihon Ken and the only dog in the large category. To celebrate the year of the dog in 2018, this article presents one of Japan’s most famous breeds, the Akita-inu. Akitas require a lot of exercise to keep them well muscled. They’ll also be happy to give you advice and answer any questions you might have before and after the adoption. Click here for more information. The Akita Inu originated from the Akita region of Japan and were originally medium-sized bear hunting dogs. These days, Americans adore the breed, too — the Akita … Exercise builds muscles, giving a dog a more composed stance.”. A display in Nakagawa’s place of business shows French film star Alain Delon in the top right corner. It looks like something is wrong. If your heart is set on a pedigree puppy, then your best bet is to find a reputable breeder. Further breeding of this hybrid led to a larger animal, often known as the American Akita or great Japanese dog. Akita Inu dog fights in Japan. The statue of Hachikō in Shibuya is a place to meet and take photographs. Courageous, they make good watchdogs without barking too much. Nakagawa has spent two-thirds of his life with Akita-inu. They’re one of the few Japanese dogs that actually made it to the west and thrived. According to the American Kennel Club , the breed got its start when an exiled nobleman—sent there as punishment by Japan’s emperor—encouraged the people of Akita to breed a sizable dog for hunting. It has been revered as a symbol of good health, prosperity, and good fortune. “They’re big, so they’re powerful, but they’re a lot easier to look after than the small Shiba-inu. Originating at least 350 years ago as a hunting dog in Japan, the Akita was introduced to the US after World War I and reached the UK in the early 1980s. The Akita originates from the Akita Prefecture in the north-east of Japan, hence its name. At that time, breeders were rare. In 1974, he was chosen as the managing director of a nationwide Akita-inu trade organization. In both cases, three centimeters of variation is allowed either way. 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