Akita Inu - The Six Unique Characteristics of the Breed

1. The forward-pointing ears of the Akita are an absolute must. They add to the alertness of stance and were almost certainly useful in hunting. They should be small, thick and representing an equilateral triangle in shape.
2. The eyes should be of oriental suggestion, not bold or piggy, but keen and dark to suggest the "oriental gaze".
3. The beauty and power of the Akita is very much evident in its forward quarters. The shortish, powerful neck should blend almost undetectably into the shoulders: it should only be noticed by the lovely arch which continues into the line of the ear to give that unique, proud stature.
4. The Akita tail is prized by the Japanese people and is considered as important as the head. The tail should be alive and well-carried, to be in perfect balance with the head.
5. The coat should have no suggestion of a wiry or yak-like texture. It should look and feel as though it could be found on that other lovely animal, the mink.
6. The colour is described as brilliant and clear. In the dictionary, 'brilliant' is defined as: splendid, sparkling, shining; and 'clear' is listed as: undimmed, pure and bright. These qualities should be reflected in the colour of the Akita's coat. It should never be mushy, sooty, dull or lack lustre. Ask the simple question: What colour is that Akita? If you can answer with a definite red, black, silver, fawn etc., the colouring is correct. If you have to say browny, fawny, greyish, sable, creamy-whitish, the colouring is incorrect to the standard of the breed.

The ears, the oriental eye, the line of neck, the high-flung tail, with a most luxuriant and brilliantly coloured coat, are the qualities which capture the Akita fancier's imagination. They are a most definite part of the breed's standard and must be observed intently when breeding so that they are preserved for the future.