Official ICCF Breed Description
Brief Historical Background
The Akita is an ancient Japanese breed originating from the Akita Prefecture on Honshu Island. Its ancestors were hunting dogs known as Matagi-ken, used for hunting bear, boar, and other large game, as well as serving as guard and fighting dogs. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the breed was influenced by larger mastiffs and German Shepherds, which temporarily altered its type. Later, selective breeding efforts were undertaken to restore the traditional appearance, balanced temperament, and natural dignity of the Akita. In 1931, the breed was officially declared a national treasure of Japan, and the story of Hachiko further cemented its reputation as a symbol of loyalty and devotion to its owner. Today, the Akita is appreciated as both a reliable companion and guardian, retaining its noble, calm, and distinctive character.
General Appearance
The Akita is a large, powerful, and well-balanced dog with a noble and expressive appearance. The body is strong, muscular, with a broad frame and balanced proportions. The format is slightly rectangular, with a sturdy, impressive silhouette that is free of heaviness. The head is massive, with a broad, wedge-shaped skull and high-set, triangular, erect ears. The chest is deep, the back straight, and the croup slightly sloping. The tail is large, thick, and carried in a tight curl over the back. The Akita gives an impression of strength, confidence, calmness, and independence. Its balanced temperament and natural dignity reflect the ancient origins and traditional role as a guardian and loyal companion.
Important Proportions
The Akita’s structure is well-balanced, emphasizing power and stability. Males reach up to 67 cm at the withers, females up to 61 cm, with body length slightly exceeding height. The chest depth is approximately half the height at the withers, providing sufficient capacity for the heart and lungs. The head length is about 40% of the height at the withers, with the skull slightly wider than the muzzle. The muzzle is wedge-shaped with strong jaws. Moderate angulation of limbs ensures smooth, efficient movement. The tail curls naturally over the back but must harmonize with the topline. Balance between strength and refinement is essential. The Akita should not appear overly massive or dry; moderation and functional conformation define the breed standard.
Behavior and Character
The Akita is a well-balanced, loyal, and independent breed with a strong sense of self. It has a calm and composed temperament but remains vigilant and protective of its family. The breed is not unnecessarily aggressive, acting decisively only when needed. Reserved with strangers but not fearful, the Akita forms a deep bond with its primary owner and displays absolute loyalty. As a dominant breed, it requires respectful and consistent training and does not tolerate harsh or inconsistent handling. With proper early socialization, the Akita is well-suited for family life. Highly observant, self-reliant, and naturally protective, yet calm and composed at home, the Akita combines ancient instincts with a dignified demeanor.
Head
The head of the Akita is massive, yet proportional to the body, with a broad skull and strong jaws. The skull is wide and flat between the ears, with a noticeable but not abrupt stop. The muzzle is wide at the base, wedge-shaped, tapering moderately toward the nose without becoming pointed. The nose is always dark, preferably black; lighter shades are acceptable in white Akitas. Lips are tight, clean, and do not droop. The chin is strong and clearly defined. Cheeks are pronounced but not coarse, accentuating the strength of the head. The expression is calm, confident, and slightly alert. The head plays a key role in breed type, emphasizing strength, nobility, and the ancient heritage of the Akita.
Facial Region
The facial region is strong, harmonious, and expressive. The muzzle is moderate in length, deep and broad at the base, tapering slightly toward the nose but not pointed. The bridge of the nose is straight. The nose is well-pigmented and large, preferably black. Lips are tight and dry, without folds. The chin is firm and well-developed. Cheeks are smooth, well-defined, and proportionate. The overall expression is calm, attentive, intelligent, and dignified, reflecting the breed’s independent and confident nature. Excessive refinement or coarseness, lack of pigment, or weak expression are considered faults. The facial structure must match the breed’s strength and balance.
Eyes
The eyes are relatively small, dark brown, almond-shaped, deeply set, and widely spaced, giving the breed a wise and penetrating expression. Eyelids are dry, tight-fitting, with dark pigmentation that enhances the expressive look. The gaze should be focused, calm, and reflective of the dog’s inner strength and alertness. Eyes should not be round, protruding, or overly narrow. Pale or uneven eye color is undesirable, as is weak eyelid pigmentation. Any deviation from correct eye shape, placement, or expression, including signs of shyness or aggression, is considered a fault and detracts from the breed type.
Ears
The ears of the Akita are erect, small, triangular, and slightly rounded at the tips, set high and wide apart. They tilt slightly forward, contributing to an alert and attentive expression. When the dog is alert, the ears point forward, emphasizing vigilance and control. They should be proportional to the head, not overly large or thin. The base of the ear is wide and strong, ensuring stability even during motion. Low-set, floppy, or weak ears are considered major faults. The ears are essential for maintaining the breed’s typical look and are integral to the expression of the Akita.
Neck
The neck is strong, muscular, and of moderate length, blending smoothly into the shoulders and body. It is slightly arched at the crest, emphasizing strength and balance. The neck should not appear too long or too short; the ideal conformation balances power with mobility. Skin is tight, without folds or dewlap. The neck plays a crucial role in supporting the head and maintaining the breed’s posture when in motion. A neck that is too weak, bulky, or excessively thin is considered a fault, as it disrupts the balance and type of the Akita. The transition from neck to withers should be smooth, showing both strength and flexibility.
Body
The body of the Akita is powerful, sturdy, and well-proportioned, reflecting strength and stability. The topline is straight and firm, with a well-defined withers, a strong, broad back, and a short, wide loin. The chest is deep and capacious, with gently curved ribs providing ample room for lung function. The abdomen is moderately tucked up but not overly tight. The croup is broad, slightly sloping, and muscular. The body should not be excessively long or light; balance between strength and endurance is key. Weak backs, narrow chests, overly heavy or excessively dry structures are considered serious faults.
Tail
The tail is a distinctive feature of the Akita. It is thick, well-furred, and set high, curling in a tight ring or sickle shape over the back. In repose, the tail forms one or more loops, but always maintains a clear arch above the topline without drooping. It should be thick at the base and taper gradually toward the tip. A loose, hanging, or improperly curled tail disrupts the breed’s outline. The correct tail carriage enhances the powerful and noble appearance of the Akita and is essential to maintaining breed type.
Exterior Description
Forequarters
The forequarters are straight, strong, and well-boned, with well-developed muscles. The shoulder blades are long, well-laid back, and lie flat against the body, forming an appropriate angle with the upper arm for freedom of movement. The upper arms are powerful but not coarse. Forearms are straight and strong, set perpendicular to the ground. Pasterns are moderately sloping, firm, not weak. Feet are large, round, with tightly knit toes and thick pads. Faults include turned-out elbows, weak bone, or excessive refinement. Correct front assembly ensures steady movement, strength, and the ability to handle the breed’s traditional working roles.
Hindquarters
The hindquarters are strong and well-angulated, with pronounced musculature that provides powerful propulsion. Thighs are broad, long, and muscular. The stifle is well bent, harmonizing with the angulation of the forequarters. The lower thigh is strong and transitions smoothly into firm, low-set hocks. Hocks are neither straight nor overly weak. Rear pasterns are short, strong, and upright. Feet are compact, with thick pads. Cow hocks, sickle hocks, straight stifles, or weak muscle development are considered serious faults, as they affect the breed’s power and stability.
Gait and Movement
The Akita’s gait is confident, powerful, free, and efficient. When viewed from the front or rear, the movement is straight and parallel. Front limbs reach forward with good extension, while the rear limbs provide strong drive, resulting in smooth, forward motion. The topline remains firm and stable, tail carried without excessive swinging. The Akita must move with effortless power and balance. Crossing over, instability, exaggerated front lift, or signs of weakness are unacceptable. The gait reflects the breed’s working heritage: the dog must maintain balance, poise, and endurance even over long distances.
Coat
The Akita has a double coat, dense and adapted to harsh climates. The outer coat is straight, harsh, and stands slightly off the body, of medium length and uniform coverage. The undercoat is thick, soft, and dense, providing insulation. The coat on the tail is longer and more abundant, enhancing the breed’s outline. On the face, ears, and front of the legs, the coat is shorter and lies flat. Long, soft, curly, or wavy coats are faults. Lack of undercoat, sparse or overly fine hair, or lack of seasonal shedding are considered serious faults. The correct coat type emphasizes the Akita’s durability and resistance to cold, moisture, and wind.
Accepted Colors
The Akita comes in several accepted colors, each reflecting its traditional type. Standard colors include red (with white markings), brindle, white, and sesame (red with black-tipped hairs). All colors must show clear pigmentation. Pure white Akitas must have no mask or markings. “Urajiro,” which refers to light cream-to-white markings on the sides of the muzzle, cheeks, jaw, chest, belly, and inner legs, is required in all non-white colors. Undesirable features include washed-out pigment, irregular markings, or blue eyes. Lack of nose pigment or uneven coat color is also considered a fault. Correct coloration is key to maintaining breed type and expressing its dignity.
Size
The Akita is a large, noble dog of powerful build. Males stand 64–70 cm at the withers and typically weigh 34–45 kg; females stand 58–64 cm and weigh 28–37 kg. Size must be proportional to the body, with no excess of height or mass. An Akita should not appear too heavy or too fine. Height outside the standard is considered a fault if it affects type or function. Proper size contributes to the Akita’s endurance, presence, and ability to fulfill its role as a guardian and companion.
Faults
Faults are evaluated according to their impact on the dog’s health, function, and breed type. Minor faults include slight deviations in proportion, mild muscular weakness, or minor errors in limb placement. More serious faults include poorly defined angulation, weak back, shallow chest, or excessive dryness of build. Faults in head expression such as weak pigment, narrow skull, weak jaw, or soft expression are undesirable. Behavioral issues such as aggression, timidity, or overexcitability are considered serious faults. Faults in coat, sparse undercoat, faded pigmentation, or improper tail carriage also indicate significant deviations from breed standards.
Disqualification
Disqualifying faults include serious deviations from breed type or issues affecting health and behavior. Complete lack of pigment on nose, lips, or eyelids; blue or mismatched eyes; drooping ears; severe bite faults, such as overshot or undershot; missing key teeth, especially canines or incisors. Long, soft, curly, or woolly coats are grounds for disqualification. A tail that does not curl or is carried low is also unacceptable. Excessive aggression, uncontrollable fear, or unstable temperament disqualifies a dog from breeding. Critically incorrect size or deformities that impair movement are grounds for exclusion.
Important Notes
The Akita is an ancient breed that requires careful preservation of its defining traits. Breeders must prioritize health, temperament, and proper conformation. Dogs with behavioral instability, lack of pigment, or significant deviations from the standard should not be bred. Crossbreeding with non-Japanese breeds is strictly prohibited to maintain purity. Akitas require regular physical and mental exercise, early socialization, and respectful, consistent training. Without these, they may become stubborn or develop undesirable behaviors. Proper breeding and responsible ownership ensure the preservation of the Akita’s nobility, strength, and independence.
Conclusion
The Akita is a symbol of strength, dignity, and loyalty, representing Japan’s rich cultural heritage. This breed combines power, independence, devotion, and a deep bond with its owner. It is suitable for responsible and calm individuals who can provide leadership, structure, and mutual respect. With its solid frame, correct coat, well-balanced proportions, and composed temperament, the Akita excels as a guardian, companion, and show dog. With proper care and thoughtful breeding, the Akita becomes not just a pet, but a trusted partner—embodying calmness, loyalty, and inner strength. Preserving its purity and breed quality is the duty of every owner and breeder.
