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Akitas
Japan, `the land of the rising sun' may have two world-renowned, symbols - "Mount Fuji" and the "Shinkansen' (Bullet Train)", and you may add a third - the "Akita" dog. Akitas may not be as well known, as other popular dog breeds are, but in Japan, this unique breed became a national monument in 1931. The `Akita' has its origins in a mountainous, northern region in Japan, specifically, the `Akita' prefecture', from where it got its name. Here's a little more to learn about the `Akita' dog.
Early history of the `Akita'
In Japan's `Akita' prefecture, where this breed first appeared, it is valued as a national treasure. Early on, Akitas were primarily used as fighting dogs but later as hunting and work dogs. The `Shogun imperial rulers, at the time, were the original owners of the Akita and used them to fight other breeds. Several attempts were made to change Akita's into more skilful fighters by altering the breed. Therefore, the present day Akita does not fully match its earlier ancestors. In the 1800s, not much attention was given to the Akita's however, the Japanese government established programs to preserve native breeds during the 20th century and the Akita was one of them. Akita's were close to extinction during World War Two, as scarce food supplies were not enough to feed them. The celebrity Helen Keller is credited with introducing the breed to the US in 1930, when she brought in two Akita puppies for sale into the country. Akitas were recognized as a distinct breed in the US, in 1973.
Physical features of the `Akita'
The Akita falls into the medium sized to large dog category. It has a broad head, small eyes and erect ears. It also has a large, full and curled tail, a thick, muscular neck and strong, powerful shoulders. A striking feature is the thick coat of the Akitas which are either, snow white, brindle or pinto.
Akita's behavioral traits
Like its ancestral counterpart, the Akita is known for bravery which makes it an ideal guard dog. Despite its aggressive nature, it is also extremely possessive of its owners but will not act kindly to strangers or other dogs. Akitas are also intelligent and quick learners. They may not be the ideal pets to take home, but owing to their intelligence, Akitas for sale can be trained from young to adapt to the home and surrounding area.
Akita grooming and health care
For a start, an Akita's fur coat must be brushed daily. This' breed sheds it's coat twice a year and trimming the coat, during shedding, is advised. The Akita is a moderately, active dog and to stay healthy and happy, it will need regular exercise. A daily walk with the dog will help.
If you are living in an isolated part of town, on a farm or a place where you feel insecure, you'll do well to go in for a full grown, Akita, a dog that fears nothing, except itself. However, on second thoughts, you may do better to invest in Akita puppies, so that you may train them from young to suit your particular home and security needs. Akitas have over a century of bravery, and you can benefit from putting this bravado to good use.
Hunny Bunny 
