[PBodyGT87]

Akitas are great, I used to have a pure bred and then now have two mixes from her and a black lab (father dog). Our's was brown, white chests, dark snout, gorgeous dog. They shed a lot, but are very loyal and very protective of the family. They go emotionally distraught if separated from their master for long periods of time, and will howl mournfully until they return. If there master does not return, it is said that they will actually die of a broken heart. They must be cared for, but they give you all the protection in return, along with a very intelligently human-like care for their master. In japan, children were left alone with dogs while the parents were out, because the dog would protect them. If you want them to be friendly to strangers, they need a lot of training and social exposure as a puppy, but if you only want the loyalty to the family, that is easily achieved. we put Keo through obidience school though. She was more of guard dog, incredibly loyal to the family, but disliked most strangers she was not familiar with. Saved our house from being robbed a few times. EXTREMELY intelligent dog. They lean against you to show their respect, and they show their stomach to submit to you. Also part wolf in their ancestry. They have an instinct that cans sense if you are angry, happy or sad, and if you are hurt, they try to cuddle and nurture you. It's very weird but way cool. Awesome dogs.