The Akita Inu is a breed that holds its origins in Japan; named for Akita Prefecture, where it is thought to have originated.

The Akita stands tall at around 26 inches and weighs in at up to 100 pounds.

The Akita is known for having a special ability to cry when it wants to be fed.

Akitas are renowned as loyal dogs and also intelligent and due to their high intelligence are easily bored. As a result, they often become destructive if not given anything to do, however, they can live happily in apartments as long as they are given plenty of exercise.

The Akita Inu have a reputation for sometimes being aggressive towards strangers, smaller animals or other dogs, particularly those of the same sex and it is therefore best to keep them in a home with no other pets.

Akitas in UK and USA/Canada surveys had a median lifespan of about 10 years which is normal for other breeds of this size.

In a 2004 UK Kennel Club survey, the most common causes of death among Akitas were cancer (32%), cardiac (14%), and gastrointestinal, including bloat/torsion (14%).

Akitas possess a double coat, with a dense straight undercoat, and a thick outer coat. This coat makes the dog waterproof, as well as being well-equipped for the fierce winters in northern Japan.

According to a recent DNA analysis, the Akita is among the most ancient of dog breeds.

Many celebrities are known to have Akitas as pets, these include MC Hammer, Sarah Michelle Geller and Major League Baseball Hall of Famer �" Cal Ripken.