The Akita-inu, a dog breed with origins in Japan’s Akita Prefecture dating back to the 1630s, faces a concerning decline in numbers despite its rich heritage and loyal reputation. This large breed, typically standing around 60 centimeters tall and weighing between 30 and 50 kilograms, is believed to have developed from the crossbreeding of hunting dogs with local canines.
To preserve this cherished breed, the Akita-Inu Preservation Society (AIPS) was established in 1927 in Ōdate, Akita Prefecture. With branches throughout Japan and clubs in countries such as the United States, France, Russia, China, and Taiwan, AIPS issues pedigrees, organizes exhibitions, and promotes the breed globally. The organization tracks Akita-inu registration numbers annually, both within Japan and abroad.
According to AIPS data, Akita-inu numbers plummeted during World War II due to military requisitions, leaving only a handful of the breed in existence by the war’s end. Post-war efforts to revive the breed saw a significant rise in their population, reaching 46,225 by 1972. However, after peaking that year, numbers began to steadily decline. By 2011, only 2,038 Akita-inu were registered worldwide, with contributing factors including a growing preference for smaller dogs due to housing constraints and a lack of new breeders as the existing ones aged.
The release of the film Hachi: A Dog’s Tale in 2009, starring Richard Gere, brought international attention to the Akita-inu, sparking a renewed interest in the breed overseas. This led to a modest recovery, with the global total reaching 6,671 by 2017. However, in Japan, the breed’s decline persisted, hitting a record low of 1,832 Akita-inu by 2023—falling below the previous low of 1,964 recorded in 2011.
Known for their loyalty, Akita-inu are often referred to as “one-owner dogs” in Japan, which means they typically form strong bonds with a single person and may struggle to adjust to other individuals. Consequently, it is not uncommon for these dogs to be abandoned or surrendered to shelters, where they often face the risk of euthanasia.
To address this issue, the organization One for Akita was established in 2018 in the city of Akita, aiming to prevent abandoned Akita-inu from being put down and to increase their numbers. The organization is currently running a fundraising campaign through October to support its efforts in rescuing Akita-inu, either by transferring them to foster homes or providing lifelong care at a dedicated facility.
With the support of both local and international advocates, One for Akita and AIPS continue their work to ensure that the Akita-inu breed remains a treasured part of Japan’s cultural heritage.
Related Topics:
Pet Dog’s Barking Saves Woman from Massive Snake
Accidental Email Exposes Euthanasia of Healthy Greyhounds in Victoria
The Emotional Lives of Dogs and Wolves and Why They Matter
