My name is Annabell Ryoko Himes I am an American Akita. I currently live in Vancouver Washington I am 8 months old and 70 pounds.
I just finished watching the movie Hatchi (Hatchiko) A Dogs Story. This is a true story about an Akita in Japan in the 20's named Hatchiko. In the story the Akita breed proves its loyalty, every day for 9 years after his owner failed to return home from work the Akita continued to meet the train hoping his owner and friend would return. Richard Gere plays the owner and he truly does credit to the story. It also features Jason Alexander, Joan Allen, and Erick Avari, all of whom do a wonderful job telling this story.
After watching this movie with my owner I have to wonder how many people are going to go out and buy Akita Puppies because the movie highlights how beautiful and wonderful we Akita's are. I really hope that people do not rush and buy us tomorrow, I hope that families do their research! I will be the first to tell you how fantastic we Akita's are...but, just as if you had to describe yourself to another person, you would not say you are perfect or that you are a perfect match for everyone :) All dogs have different personalties, positive traits and negative just like people.
Unfortunately I know that not everyone will do the proper research before running out and buying a dog! Let's face it, that is not very responsible. Remember a few years ago with the famous "South of the Border" restaurants and their mascot dog??? Everyone thought they were cute and had to have one. People did not research breed problems, common illnesses and what it takes to own a healthy puppy. Then the market became flooded, mass breeding created unhealthy dogs....you get the point right?
So, what I am saying is this...we (Akita's) are an amazing dog: strong, beautiful, loyal and loving dogs. But we are also: stubborn, willful, may not be good with kids or other animals, like to do things our way, prone to allergies, thyroid problems, hip problems and yes we get really really big! So if you want an amazing animal to own and to love we are it! You better be prepared to exercise me EVERYDAY; when I say exercise I am talking about 2 or 3 hours at the dog park, or a 2 or 4 mile walk or run! Did I mention we get to be BIG! That means I need to be worked out everyday, if not I get bored...and when I get bored...I dig, chew on things you did not want me to, will not listen to you because I am bored and looking for some entertainment, basically I will find ways to make your life frustrating because you did not hold up your end of the deal. I get bored fast! Play with me! A tired dog is a happy dog, remember that.
Take what I say to heart and if you can provide me the love, training, exercise and care that we need then, please take one of us home today. But....if you doubt that you can do any of this PLEASE look at a different breed as there are many great dogs out there! Make a list of what you want out of a companion, then do some research and find the breed that best suits you. Both of you will be happier for it!
Please leave your comments and suggestions for me and other Akita Owners I would love to hear what everyone has to say!
Here are some great Akita links! Stop back by for more information as I will write tips and tricks here often :)
http://www.akitarescue.com/
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