Akita Shepherd

The Akita is a large, powerful spitz-type dog that presents a commanding and dignified appearance. Males typically stand between 26 to 28 inches at the shoulder and weigh 100 to 130 pounds, while females are slightly smaller at 24 to 26 inches and 70 to 100 pounds. The breed possesses a substantial, well-balanced frame with a broad head that resembles a bear, featuring small, deep-set triangular eyes and small erect triangular ears that sit forward in line with the neck. The muscular body is slightly longer than tall with a level back, strong legs, and webbed feet that provide excellent support for their considerable size. The Akita carries a dense double coat that consists of a thick, soft undercoat beneath a straight, harsh outer coat that stands off from the body. The coat is shorter on the head and lower legs but longer on the tail and rear portions of the body. Acceptable colors include all solid shades such as white, brindle, and pinto, with rich and brilliant markings preferred. The Japanese Akita Inu variety tends toward more restricted coloring including red, fawn, sesame, brindle, and pure white. A distinctive feature is the large, curled tail that is carried proudly over the back or against the flank in a three-quarter, full, or double curl. The breed's physical structure reflects its origins as a hunting and guard dog in the mountainous regions of Japan. The powerful jaws, muscular neck, and compact feet equipped for traversing snow and rough terrain demonstrate the breed's working heritage. The Akita moves with a brisk, powerful gait that showcases the breed's agility despite its substantial size. The overall impression is one of substance, dignity, and alertness, with a noble bearing that has made the Akita a symbol of good health, happiness, and long life in its native Japan.

The German Shepherd is a large, well-balanced, muscular dog that presents an impression of strength, intelligence, and nobility. Males typically stand 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder and weigh 65 to 90 pounds, while females are slightly smaller at 22 to 24 inches and 50 to 70 pounds. The breed standard calls for a body that is longer than it is tall, with an ideal proportion of approximately 10 to 9 in length to height ratio. The topline flows in a smooth curve from the neck through the well-developed withers and over the level back to the gently sloping croup, giving the breed its characteristic silhouette. The head is noble and cleanly chiseled, with a strong, wedge-shaped muzzle and a moderately defined stop. The almond-shaped eyes are dark and express keen intelligence and self-assurance. The large, erect ears are open toward the front and carried upright, contributing to the breed's alert, attentive expression. The neck is strong and muscular, blending smoothly into the shoulders without loose skin. The chest is deep and capacious, providing ample heart and lung room for the breed's remarkable endurance. The forelegs are straight when viewed from all sides, and the hindquarters are broad and strong with well-developed thighs. The German Shepherd carries a medium-length double coat consisting of a dense, straight, harsh outer coat lying close to the body with a thick undercoat. The coat is slightly longer on the neck, forming a slight ruff, and longer on the backs of the legs and the underside of the tail. While the black and tan saddle pattern is most recognized, acceptable colors include sable, solid black, black and cream, black and silver, and bi-colored patterns. The bushy tail hangs in a slight curve when at rest and is raised when the dog is excited. The breed moves with a ground-covering, elastic gait that demonstrates both power and elegance, reflecting its heritage as an all-purpose working dog.