Hachiko - the treasure of the land of the rising sun

2021-04-04T14:55:01+01:00

Despite such respect, the place and date of origin of the breed is unknown exactly. Many historians-cynologists put forward several versions:
- Akita - a cross between a go-dog, which came from North Korea and eastern China with the settlers and the local aboriginal dogs of Japanese island of Honshu;
- before the Chinese and Koreans migration to Japan in 4-9 centuries Ainu people lived here, whom faithfully served domesticated dogs Ainu-Inu, similar to the modern Akita;
- On the Akita Prefecture, and more specifically in town Odate and its suburbs people lived who lived thanks to hunting and these dogs were their helpers. These dogs are the ancestors of the Akita Inu, easily hunted big game - deer, wild boar, bear, and could hold a large animal weighing up to 400 kg before the arrival of man. Besides, the Akita was used as beater of fish into fishnet, as shepherds - guarding the flock from the attack of the beast, as ordinary watchdogs - guarding the house. This version is most common;
- Akita was never a hunting dog (Matagi Inu was such a dog); It served as a watchdog, but initially its ancestors were local indigenous dogs, increased up to modern standards of Japanese national breed.




In the Middle Ages, the representatives of this species lived in samurai houses. The more dogs lived in the house, the higher was the evaluation of their master. Later, Akita became the prerogative of the aristocracy.
In the 20th century the breed was threatened. People have decided to organize bloody battles, where dogs took part. Then, in Japan thanks to one mayor initiative the Akita club was created in 1927 to protect dogs. The second World War again played the role of "killer." But when all was quiet, the breed began to recover and grow again.
Now, Akita dogs (height is about 70 cm, weight is more than 50 kg, color golden-white, looks similar with husky) live in families and are good loyal guards. Over the centuries, they established themselves as fearless and noble animals, which can only be respected. You can keep it in the apartment but it needs long walks, with appropriate physical exercise, and nice care of thick hair.