Mary Allen
The Akita Inu is the largest of the Japanese dog breeds. Originally, the strong dog was used for bear hunting, but he is also a persistent and alert sled, guard, and companion dog – if he feels like it!
#1 The historical origin of the Akita Inu (秋田犬, in English about “autumn field dog”) is to be found in Japan, where, however, small to medium-sized dog breeds were represented until the 17th century.
These were typical of the alert and adaptable Spitz type.
#2 The largest of the Japanese dog breeds is said to have originated and been bred on the island of Honshu alone.
#3 The dogs owe their name to Akita Prefecture in Honshu.
When dog fights for bloody public entertainment became popular in the land of the rising sun, the "Akita Matagis" were used in Japan, i.e. larger dogs that had actually been used for bear hunting before.