The American Akita belongs to the fifth group in this classification: Spitz-type and primitive-type Dogs. The dogs in this group are generally very old breeds but also very versatile. More precisely, the Akita Inu joins the fifth section of this group dedicated to Asian Spitz and related breeds. This breed is without working test.

It was in 1603 that the first American Akitas were used for bear hunting. Crossed with the Tosa and Mastiffs, they are also called Akita Matagis. In 1908, dog fighting was banned. This Japanese breed was preserved and improved. During the Second World War, soldiers used dog skins to make clothing. Following this, the police ordered the confiscation of all dogs except German Shepherds reserved for military tasks. To be able to keep their dog, many crossed their dog with a German Shepherd. By the end of the war, Akita numbers were woefully reduced. The race then had to be restored. A temporary popularity for lines originating from Dewa blood increased the number of these individuals. These lines were strongly typified Mastiffs and German Shepherds and were taken to the USA. Very versatile, these dogs adapt to all situations, which appeals to many breeders. The American Akita Club was established in 1956. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1972. Unfortunately, the Japanese Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club did not recognize mutual pedigrees. This is why Akitas from the USA became very different from those from Japan.

The American Akita is a large dog with a broad bone. The broad, triangular head has a thick muzzle. Small eyes and ears pricked forward. The stop sign is well marked. The skull is flat and broad. The nose is large and black, while the lips are black and not dangling and the tongue is pink. The eyes are dark brown, small and triangular. The neck is thick and muscular with a small dewlap. The body is longer than it is high. The skin is not loose. The back is straight and horizontal. The loin is firmly muscled, the chest is well developed, the stomach is slightly raised. The tail is thick and very thick with hair. It is tied high and forms a loop. The end touches the line of the back or goes a little lower. The feet are straight forward with a heavy frame. The shoulders are powerful and slightly oblique. In gait, the American Akita is powerful with long strides. The back remains horizontal. The American Akita has a double coat, a thick and soft undercoat. And a straight, hard, stiff top coat. All colors such as red, fawn and white are allowed, including brindle and variegated colors. The height of males is 66 to 71 cm while females range from 61 to 66 cm.

The Akita Inu is a robust dog. Its longevity is estimated at 10-12 years. However, he presents predispositions to two autoimmune diseases. First, sebaceous adenitis, a skin disease leading to hair loss, and second, VKH, which causes depigmentation of the skin, inflammation of the eyes and brain. Unfortunately, there are still no preventive tests available at present; it is therefore important to be attentive to the chosen lineage. Other pathologies can appear in this breed such as: elbow dysplasia, stomach torsion, cardiac pathologies, retinal atrophy and another autoimmune disease, uveitis. To maintain the Akita, a Daily brushing and curing during moulting are necessary.

The American Akita is a dog with a strong temperament. He is stubborn and can be quite difficult with his peers. Cohabitation with a dog of the same sex is not easy. It will be necessary to raise it with an iron fist in a velvet glove. If you are an avid fan of obedience or another activity that requires a lot of obedience from your dog, you may be disappointed. They are quite independent.