Akita Shepherd

The German Shepherd and Akita Inu were bred together to create this hybrid breed. The Akita Shepherd’s German Shepherd parent originated in the 1800s and was bred in Germany as a sheep herder. The Germans quickly recognized the breed’s intelligence and employed it as a courier dog in the German military in both World War I and II. German Shepherds were further refined in Germany under the guidance of the Verein fur Deutsche Scharferhunde SV, which was established in 1899 specifically to shape the development of the breed. During the 20^th century, German Shepherds grew in popularity not only in their native country, but also in North America as a working and guard dog, as well as loyal pet. The American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd in 1908 and it remains a popular dog in the United States and Europe – especially Germany – to this day. The other parent, the Akita Inu, is an ancient breed from the Odate region of Japan. In the mid-1900s, Akitas Inus were declared a national treasure of Japan. Even today, Akitas Inus are considered spiritual symbols of protection, health, happiness, and longevity in the country. Akita Inus were first bred to hunt animals large and medium sized game, such as elk, boars, and small bears. The American historical figure, Helen Keller, became enamored with the breed in the mid-20^th century and brought the first Akita to North America. Afterwards, the Akita population grew steadily in the United States and it was recognized by the AKC in 1972. The combination of these two parent breeds has resulted in the stoic and devoted Akita Shepherd breed. This hybrid may have been bred as early as the mid-1900s due to its parent breeds' history in the same geographical areas. Nonetheless, it has not caught on in popularity and it is not recognized by the AKC.