1. Please tell us a little bit about yourself. Where do you live? How many years in dogs? How many years as a breeder? What is your kennel name?
2. In your opinion, is your breed in good condition overall? Any trends that warrant concern?
3. As a Preservation Breeder, can you share your thoughts on the sport today? How’s the judging these days?
4. What are some of the challenges encountered along the road to full AKC recognition? What are some of the challenges as a preservation breeder? As an Exhibitor?
5. In your opinion, is social media good for the sport? Is it harmful?
6. What are the biggest challenges facing the dog show community as a whole today and how can these be addressed?
7. What are some of the positive changes you’ve seen in the sport over the past decade?

1. I live outside of Athens, Georgia, in Lexington, Georgia. I have been in dogs all my life, but as a breeder/exhibitor of American Akitas for about 20 years. I’ve more recently added Japanese Akitainus to the kennel. My kennel name is Titan Akitas.

2. There are always things that need to be improved in any breed that I’m aware of, but I feel, overall, our breed is in a decent place. Japanese Akitainus are just beginning the journey, so I’d love to help get the breed off to a great start.

3. To me, the sport is in a solid place. Just like in the breed, there’s always room for improvement with the number of shows and locations. Judging these days is fine. There will always be differing opinions and visions. I appreciate the work judges do, as it can be a thankless job. Usually the only person who’s happy with the job you did is the winner.

4. The road to full recognition has definitely had challenges. A big challenge is finding the numbers to compete against. Group placements and Bests in Open Shows helped my Goji achieve his CM2 rapidly. It would have been very difficult to do without that. Also, having judges who have seen and had their hands on a quality Japanese Akitainu has been another challenge. If what a judge has seen is what I would consider disappointing type, that becomes what the judges see as normal.

5. In my opinion, social media has been terrible for the sport in some ways. Too much is being done for attention and “likes” instead of the quality and soundness of the breed. In other ways it’s been good. It’s much easier to get your eyes on dogs that you might have some interest in. The doctored photos are a particular peeve of mine, though. No dog is perfect and there will always be things that need improvement, but painting on a new color or Photoshopping a new rear on a dog is false advertising.

6. In my eyes, the biggest challenge to the dog show community is the cliquish and tribal behavior. People get into their own little silos and, therefore, ideas, opinions, and genetics never mix. Friendly competition and the bettering of the breed is what it’s supposed to be about.

7. I do believe breeders have done a great job of pointing the breed back in the right direction. We still haven’t arrived yet, but I can say that I’ve seen good improvement on the quality of dogs in recent years. I believe separating the Japanese Akitainu from the American Akita is a positive development. Having been around both breeds at the same time daily, I can say that they are truly different breeds. In structure, and definitely in temperament, they are just different.

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1. Please tell us a little bit about yourself. Where do you live? How many years in dogs? How many years as a breeder? What is your kennel name?
2. What is your “process” for selecting show puppies? Performance puppies?
3. In your opinion, is your breed in good condition overall? Any trends that warrant concern?
4. As a Preservation Breeder, can you share your thoughts on the sport today? How’s the judging these days? What do you think about the number of shows?
5. In your opinion, is social media good for the sport? Is it harmful?
6. What are the biggest challenges facing the dog show community as a whole today and how can these be addressed?
7. What are some of the positive changes you’ve seen in the sport over the past decade?

Dr. Alphonso Evans Sr.

1. I am a believer in God, husband, father, educator, author, and mentor, and I live right outside Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I have been involved with dogs all of my life. My grandfather introduced me to multiple breeds and their purposes as a toddler; however, the Akita breed for 13 years! My kennel name is TAJA which is the first letter in my, my wife’s, and our children’s first names, which represents all of the sacrifice, time, and love we have dedicated to the Akita breed. At TAJA, we are the home of multiple Bests in Specialty Show, multiple Bests of Breed, multiple Grand Champions, and Top 20 Akitas, but most of all, we are where your family companion can be a star in your home as well as in the show ring!

2. I am known to be very “detailed” when it comes to choosing the next puppy for Conformation, but in reality, there is no “perfect” dog. My magic week is the “sixth week.” While puppies are always changing and many think it is too early, I believe you can see the future during that time. I focus on the head, type, and outline during that time, and as the puppy gets older, temperament and movement become a great focus.

3. I believe that the Akita breed is in good condition overall and does not have many health issues; however, I believe that you should be critical of the dogs you want in your breeding program as it relates to the Breed Standard, and it should not be compromised at any time. In addition, the temperament and education of Akitas is extremely important in our breed and must be a part of the foundation for new owners of the breed.

4. I believe the sport has come a long way, especially with embracing and encouraging owner-handlers to show their own dogs. I never get “caught up” in judging because I believe every person has their interpretation of what the Standard is communicating. However, at TAJA, when we leave the ring, I know what I have on the other side of the lead and that is most important! I really miss some shows that are no longer in existence, such as the “Wildwood Shows.” However, we must continue to encourage new people to come into the sport by welcoming them with “open arms.”

I believe the sport has come a long way, especially with embracing and encouraging owner-handlers to show their own dogs.

5. I believe social media has been very good for the sport because it brings the show to you and builds excitement. However, there will always be people who will abuse the purpose of social media, and when they do, as a dog show community, we must stand against it!

6. I believe one of the biggest challenges facing the dog show community today is diversity and programs that encourage participation in the sport as an opportunity for families to come together and have fun. Growing up, I saw dog shows on television or advertisements, but it seemed so far out of reach and I had to do research myself to obtain the courage to get involved. We must take dog shows “on the road,” and not just in certain rural communities, in order to share with everyone.

7. The positive changes that I have noticed is the National Owner-Handled Series, which is heavily promoted across the country, Best of Breed Owner-Handled, and of course, the Owner-Handled Group ring. I really enjoy the focus and enthusiasm placed on it by the sport!

The post Dr. Alphonso Evans Sr. | Taja Akitas appeared first on Showsight Magazine.

Judging the Akita

First Impressions

After walking the ring and deciding my pattern for the day, I bring in the first class. I like to bring them in and have a look at them all before moving. While most exhibitors are aware, keep in mind a little space between dogs is the norm. Looking down the line, it’s my opportunity to get an idea of proportion, size, and balance. I review some key words from the standard: alert, dignified, large, and powerful. Then, I send them around together. As they go, I compare the side gaits of the group. Here I’m looking for a powerful, brisk, and moderate stride. As they come around to the designated stopping point, I am ready to go over my first dog.

Individual Exams

The dog has been set up and I stand back so I can look at his general proportions. The tail is curled over the back and will balance the head. The top line is level. Akitas are longer than tall. In dogs, as 10 is to 9. In bitches, as 11 is to 9. I walk in front of the dog, stopping short of being straight in front. Here I’m within their vision and they know I’m approaching. As I approach, I usually give a good morning with a smile to the handler but I’m actually addressing the dog. A confident glance at the head taking note of head shape, ears, eyes, nose, and length of muzzle, not staring into his eyes, starts my examination. Then we go into the actual hands-on.

His HEAD is massive but in balance with the body. It looks like a blunt triangle. It will be free of wrinkles when he is at ease. The skull is flat between the ears. I will fault a snipey or narrow head. The EARS are carried slightly forward. They are triangular, strong, thick, and well-furred, with slightly rounded tips. Our first DQ is here (#1); Drop or broken ears are to be disqualified. The EYES are triangular in shape, small, tight, with black rims, and dark brown in color.

The MUZZLE is broad and strong. The distance from his nose to his stop as to the distance from stop to occiput is 2 to 3. His NOSE is broad and black although we do allow a lighter nose with or without shading of black or gray on a white Akita. A dog with a partial or total lack of pigmentation is another of our Disqualifications. (DQ #2) At our JEC seminars, we like to say the head is a symphony of triangles.

Bite: I generally ask the handler to show me the bite. An Akita should have a scissors bite although a level bite is acceptable. We do have a disqualification for either overshot or undershot. (DQ #3) Since we don’t have a disqualification for missing teeth and complete dentition is not mentioned in the standard, I don’t ask for more than a bite check.

An Akita should have a scissors bite although a level bite is acceptable.

I move on to the body. The shoulders are strong and powerful, with a moderate layback. The front legs are heavy-boned and straight. The depth of the chest is 1/2 the height of the dog. I run my hand across his top line. It is level.

Leaving my hand on the dog, I step on around to his rear, lifting his tail if it impedes my checking his top line and gently putting it back where I found it. Then I run my hands down his hips/thighs verifying muscle tone and slip one hand in to check testicles if it is required. His upper thighs are well-developed, he will have a moderately bent stifle and well let down hocks. I step away, moving to the right behind the handler and around to the front. This puts me at the top of the down and back without walking up beside the dog from behind. This is what I do with all breeds.

An Akita’s movement is similar to many working dogs. The rear legs move in line with the front. Although an Akita doesn’t actually converge, he will have a tendency as he moves along to come in toward the middle line. From the side, he should have a moderate stride. Brisk and powerful but moderate. And here, I will discuss feet. The Akita’s foot is a cat foot. Toes are knuckled up and short, pads are thick. You know, like a cat. Flat feet with splayed toes and incorrect ears are my personal pet peeves. Not the only ones, but certainly worth mentioning here.

An Akita’s movement is similar to many working dogs. The rear legs move in line with the front.

As I’m observing this dog, I remember other parts of the standard. His tail will be curled over and touching his back. It could be a tight curl; it could be a ¾ curl with the end dropping over his flank, but it must be touching his back. A tail that hangs straight down behind or is a sickle tail is a disqualification (DQ#4… and you thought I’d forgotten!) We all know, on really hot days we feel a little droopy or when we’re young, we are perhaps timid and in Akita’s case, their tail may just hang down. Normally, a go-round the ring will pop the tail back up on the back where it belongs. That is a qualifying tail.

The Akita is a double-coated breed. The undercoat is soft and dense with longer, harsher guard hair. And, although everything is great about an Akita, one of the best is they come in all colors. We tell judges and potential puppy buyers that color should not be a consideration BUT it’s still great they can be so many hues. Our standard allows any color including white (white Akitas have no mask), pinto (a pinto has a white background with large, evenly placed patches covering the head and more than ⅓ of the body), and brindle. The colors are brilliant and clear and markings are well balanced with or without a mask. And, the undercoat can be a different color than the top coat and quite frequently is!

Dogs are 26″-28″ tall. Under 25″ is a disqualification. Bitches are 24″-26″ tall. Under 23″ is a disqualification. (That’s DQ#5 and our last one.) This INCLUDES puppies. If there is a question on height I measure and I’m asking you to do so. Our standard is very specific about size with under the minimum being a disqualification. The Akita is considered a large breed, let’s keep it in the range specified.

The Akita’s personality is what attracts many people to my breed. They can be fun-loving and a jokester with their people one minute, alert and protective the next. They walk down the street or through a show site like they own everything they can see, inspiring awe. But take note, they can be intolerant of other dogs, especially of the same sex. Please don’t pack several Akitas in a corner while you’re sorting out another group, neither the handlers nor the dogs will appreciate it.

The Akita’s personality is what attracts many people to my breed. They can be fun-loving and a jokester with their people one minute, alert and protective the next.

OK, I’m done with the class, it’s time to place them. I hope as you’ve read this article you’ve been able to derive the key points, the essence, of an Akita. They are large with heavy bone and substance, balance, correct heads, ears, tails, and give the overall impression of power and stature with a reserved temperament. A very wise man once told me, “When you go to dog shows, if you stay all day and watch other breeds; stay and watch the groups, you should be able to pick out a good dog. You may not know all the disqualifications or nuances but you should be able to pick out a good dog.”

That’s what I’m challenging you all to do. To learn more about the Akita or, for that matter, any breed, go to shows. Watch all day. And then go one step farther. Talk to the exhibitors. Talk to other judges. Go to seminars.

Finally, remember the standard is what breeders are striving for. As judges, we all need to choose our winners with that standard always forefront in our minds. And enjoy what you do, I do.

The post Judging the Akita appeared first on Showsight Magazine.

1. Please tell us a little bit about yourself. Where do you live? How many years in dogs? How many years as a breeder? What is your kennel name?
2. What is your “process” for selecting show puppies? Performance puppies?
3. In your opinion, is your breed in good condition overall? Any trends that warrant concern?
4. As a Preservation Breeder, can you share your thoughts on the sport today? How’s the judging these days? What do you think about the number of shows?
5. In your opinion, is social media good for the sport? Is it harmful?
6. What are the biggest challenges facing the dog show community as a whole today and how can these be addressed?
7. What are some of the positive changes you’ve seen in the sport over the past decade?

1. We live about 30 minutes south of Buffalo, New York, in the peaceful, rural hills of Lawtons. We are a family dedicated to the preservation of the Akita, which epitomizes strength, dignity, and loyalty. Our kennel name was selected as a melding of our last name and a play on “Big Gentle Ben” the Bear! We believe strongly in making the breed better, which started with rescuing our first Akita in 1979 from a research facility. That dog captivated my heart, sold me on the breed, and we have worked diligently to protect and improve the breed since then. We purchased our foundation bitch in 1983 and she obtained her ROM status!

I grew up with a farm background, showing and raising Charolais beef cattle. Since I was in charge of the breeding program, I learned about genetics and producing a balanced animal. My husband, Dave, grew up with Sporting dogs that his family used for hunting pheasants. Our daughters, Amanda and Jolene, grew up with our dogs and both competed in Junior Showmanship. Once they aged out, Jolene continued to show Akitas along with other breeds. Jolene has followed in our footsteps, and we never could have achieved all of our accomplishments without us working together as a family.

2. We have found over the years that you can tell so much by studying and watching newborn pups—how they nurse, how they hold themselves, their temperament. Our pups are born and raised right in our house and we are with them 24/7 for the first four weeks. We sleep next to the whelping box, consistently holding and evaluating the pups. These first few weeks really show you structure and personality, and which is most outgoing. By the time they are walking, we usually have narrowed down our top picks. Final selection is done at eight weeks by the family after lengthy discussions because we all have our favorites! When selecting our show pups, we always look for that exuberant puppy that self-stacks and says, “Look at me!”

3. The breed is, overall, doing well. Since our start in the ‘80s, our goal was to improve temperament without losing those overall traits that make an Akita an Akita and NOT a fluff dog for every home. Temperaments have greatly improved and many of our dogs have taken top performance titles and were certified as Therapy Dogs.

We have always strived to keep a strong bitch line as that leads to overall breed type. We do feel the breed today is lacking in length of leg and size, along with narrow fronts. The Akita was bred to hunt bears—holding the bear at bay until the hunter arrived. When you look at the dog, you should be able to see that dog doing that job. Just like the type of the Akita’s head—you want small, triangular ears and eyes. You want that head to scream, “Akita!” So, overall, we feel fronts need to be improved and overall soundness. Lately, many pigeon-fronted dogs have emerged and we need the breed type to be more closely bred for.

4. The sport has definitely declined. It is hard to find a major with the number of dogs being shown. Judging is fair, overall, and we are happy to see more breeder/owner-handlers being recognized. Shows have definitely declined, which is sad to say but understandable in this economy.

5. There are pros and cons with social media. It is great to see and watch pups develop, but it’s also discouraging when people post pictures of dogs lacking in merit with posted comments that encourage them along. Also, it is very sad to see photo alterations being done that misrepresent the true dog type. People often don’t research and buy a puppy just based on pictures without looking over pedigrees and meeting the parents. Every line has improvement areas and people need to be honest and aware of what an issue may be and how best to improve that. For example, you don’t want to breed two weak fronts or a dog with eye issues or two small dogs with weak toplines. Always, a breeding should be to improve the breed! Social media does not always facilitate that happening.

6. Hopefully the economy improves, so more people can afford to participate in shows and continually strive to make it a family sport. As with many activities, younger people need to feel welcomed and encouraged, as those same Juniors are who will improve the sport and carry it forward.

The other challenge is rescue. I was President of the Akita Rescue of Western NY (ARWNY) and Save Our Seniors (SOS). The dog sport must encompass all aspects—good and bad—and be there for the breed from birth to death. Sadly, more and more are ending up in rescue, which goes back to knowing your lines, only breeding for improvement of the breed, and researching to make sure the Akita is right for you. Akitas are not for all and it’s better to know before breaking the dog’s heart or your own, or causing the dog to lose its home or worse.

7. It is great to see judges recognizing and putting up bitches for Best of Breed. Our kennel has always strived to follow the words of the well-known Akita breeder/author BJ Andrews: “The strength of the sire is the power of the dam.”

Enjoy our majestic Akita breed!

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The Performance Akita

The Akita Breed Standard states, “Large, powerful, alert, with much substance and heavy bone.” As a judge, handler, or exhibitor at a dog show, you have many times watched the Akitas in the ring; the powerful male or beautiful bitch making their way around the ring or creating a breathtaking stance for their handler. Now I would like for you to meet another side of this breed: the Performance Akita. Yes, I said “Performance.” This breed can be seen in Rally, Obedience, and even Agility rings. Akitas are also competing in Barn Hunt, Scentwork, and Fast CAT. Many are earning the three levels of Canine Good Citizen, Temperament Test titles, and Farm Dog. The special ones are also Therapy Dogs!

Training an Akita for performance is not an easy feat. This breed bores easily. Teach them something, they pick it up fast. Repeat it more than a few times and the Akita is ready to move on—do it, move on. When you see us take the leash off at a trial, that Akita is ready and their owner/handler is confident that their Akita is of great temperament and ready for the task.

Not all of our Akitas can compete at higher levels in Rally or Obedience, however, due to the requirement for off-leash heeling. While our Akita may be able to complete the task, the dog’s owner may not feel confident without the leash. It happens. We simply move on to another performance activity that our Akita can successfully compete in. We adapt and continue to have fun with our well-trained Akita. Many of us have trained multiple dogs from puppyhood and have had success in many areas of performance.

The Akita National Specialty was held this year in Mesa, Arizona. Rally and Obedience trials were offered two of the days. There was also the first-ever Scentwork Trial held at an Akita National. Numerous Akitas qualified!

For the balance of this article, you will hear from the owners of some of those special Akitas. One such Akita is “Gabby,” a nearly 12-year-old who is the most-titled Akita in the history of our breed. She has quite a following and brings a smile to not only her owner, Barbara Sikkink, but also to all who meet her. She is one of the “special” ones.

My “special” one, “Heston,” has sadly left us. He never met a stranger and he loved all people. He was also a Therapy Dog. He loved it. Once, he was even a Show-N-Tell for my grandson’s kindergarten class! Heston had a lot of “try.” We might not have qualified each time we entered the ring, but we had fun.

Heston’s favorite performance activity was Agility. He disliked sitting—he really did. Imagine a Rally/Obedience dog that did not want to sit. That was Heston. He did grace me with a sit on most occasions, but other times he just looked up at me and smiled. Anyway, Agility did not have any sits. Watching this boy fly over jumps with a smile on his face was amazing. Other times in the ring, I watched him make his own course and just followed along. Heston is the most-titled male in the history of our breed. Heston was a Performance Akita.

Let’s meet some other Performance Akitas, according to their owners.

FOREST & DOROTHY CARROLL-MOORS “Forest” is best described as a part-time working dog. In other words… when he feels like it. We made our first attempt at the Mission Circuit shows where the judge was unfortunately deeply concerned about the Akita in his ring that was about to be taken off-lead. This was despite sitting outside the ring for an hour and a half, and Forest was graciously greeting anyone who approached. It was a warm afternoon and it was naptime. He decided he liked the center of the ring so well that he would just stay there. Not a qualifying round.

The next try, at the Akita Pre-National, Forest again sat and stayed beautifully for his recall. When called, he slowly sauntered over as if he was very busy, and sat too far away to qualify. The third try at the National was a charm. While he was busy looking for girls, he still heeled adequately, actually came (no one said he had to be speedy), sat right in front of me, and put his paw up as if to say, “Am I done now? And a treat would be good.”

The challenge is to both the exhibitor and our special dogs. They are as smart as they have to be and as dumb as they can get away with. I look forward to our new adventure together in Obedience and Rally.

BUDDY & ANITA PALMER “Buddy” is our fourth male Akita and our third champion. Buddy is working both sides of the dog show world; he is a champion in Conformation and is now starting to compete in performance events. He is very enthusiastic and we look forward to learning and working together as a team. At the Akita National, Buddy qualified in Beginner Novice Obedience as well as Rally. He also earned his Urban Canine Good Citizen (CGCU) title.

DEVYLLE & HEATHYR AGUILAR “DeVylle” happily competed in Beginner Novice Obedience and Rally Novice. She earned her Rally Novice Title at the Akita National, and on the same day she went on to be awarded a 5-pt. major as Winners Bitch and Best of Winners at the Pre-National. We couldn’t be prouder of this young girl and look forward to a bright future.

ROXY & TRACY WEST “Roxy,” as a Veteran, earned her Rally Advanced Title at the 2023 Akita National. Roxy has always loved to show and go to Meet the Breed events, like at the San Francisco Cherry Blossom Festival. She is also a certified Therapy Dog. It never occurred to me that she would love to do other things like Rally. Obedience isn’t as fun to her (although she earned her first leg of Beginner Novice Obedience at the National), because she loves the verbal interactions Rally encourages. Because she seems to really enjoy going to class and working towards different titles, we will keep at it. Our next big goal is earning a CD.

CORRA & KATE MANGUBAT “Corra’s” journey to obtaining her Scentwork HD Novice title is a typical Akita training story. She asked why she had to do this thing, then did it when she felt like it. We were mentored by ACPS Vice President Tom Knoebel, watched a few YouTube videos, and tried to make it as exciting as possible. Convincing Corra that finding my smelly sock would result in a treat was not the hardest part—that was keeping her from destroying the scent boxes! It took about three tries for her to learn this activity. She completed her Scentwork Handler Discrimination Trial 1 at Monroe, Washington (2nd place), Trial 2 (1st place), and Trial 3 (1st place) at the Akita National. Key takeaway: make it exciting and trust your Akit

YETI & ILKA WAGNER The 2023 Akita National was the venue where I decided to take the jump into Rally with one of my Akitas. “Yeti” received a score of 93 and 1st place in our first attempt at Rally Novice. I could not have been more proud of him! Two years ago, at the Akita National, he earned his CGCA, CGCU, and TKN, and I realized how much fun it was to work as a team with him in something other than Conformation.

I have been contemplating doing performance work for years, but just didn’t quite have the right Akita to do this with… or maybe, I just didn’t have the gumption to try. I chose Yeti to start working in performance because he is so biddable. If he knows what you would like him to do, he will do it, and he will do it with enthusiasm! He is just happy to be doing something with his mom.

Treats are great, but praise is just as good. He is so willing to try new things and I love seeing his big smile when we get it right. He seems to know when we are spot on with a trick or a new Rally sign. In true Akita spirit, after we have done something three or four times, we have to move on to another challenge; but I like this about the breed. They are easily bored with things, so we have to keep on our toes to keep them engaged and enthusiastic. Yeti makes this easy for me. Something new… let’s do it, mom! I have the performance bug now and plan on getting some of my other kiddos out as well.

I HOPE THAT JUDGES, HANDLERS, EXHIBITORS, AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC WILL LOOK AT OUR AKITAS AS MORE THAN A GORGEOUS SHOW DOG.

GABBY & BARBARA SIKKINK “Gabby” earned her Rally Championship 2 (RACH2) at the Akita National along with her Rally Master 7 (RM7) and Rally Advanced Excellent 5 (RAE5). She was High Triple and High Combined at the Pre-National and National. She also Q’d in three of her Scentwork classes at Master level. She is just one Q from earning her overall Scentwork Master title. She will be 12 years old this month. Gabby is the most-titled Akita in the history of the breed: ACH NNCH ALCH NHD EN UCD ROM RACH2 Minda & Midnite The Gods Have Spoken CDX BN GN RM7 RAE5 FDC OAP NJP CA BCAT SWNE SCAE SIAE SCM SIM SEM SHDE TT THDX RATM CZ8B DN CGCA CGCU TKE ATT VHMA VSWE FITS SPOT-ON SD-1 VAX9 HOF-Rally HOF-Barn Hunt

DUBLIN & KOKO & SUZI ALEKSANDER “Dublin,” at seven months old, blew me away by taking a High in Trial at the Novice level in Scentwork. Meaning, he passed all offered elements. It was only his second trial, so clearly, Akitas have a lot of natural ability in Scentwork. It’s a great sport for Akitas, as it lets them work independently and at their own pace. Dublin also passed two Trick levels to earn his Trick Dog Advanced title and his CGCU as well as earning his third Rally Novice leg for a Rally Novice title.
“Koko,” who is 11 years young and still as patient and deliberate as always, passed nearly all of her runs at the highest Scentwork levels and even earned her penultimate leg of the 10 required for her Handler Discrimination Master Elite. One of my favorite experiences with Koko was competing in the AKC West Regional Championships, where Koko earned a second place overall in the Master HD division against some very experienced teams. She also earned her Rally Master 2 title and the new Rally Choice title in Mesa, with her 20th Master Q and 10th Choice Q. Koko regularly competes in Shed, Carting, Obedience, FCAT, and rat sports. Thank you all for sharing your stories with us about your Performance Akitas. I hope that judges, handlers, exhibitors, and the general public will look at our Akitas as more than a gorgeous show dog. They are so much more!

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Interview with Ingrid Linerud-Strom, Breeder of Crown Royal Akitas

Where do I live? How many years in dogs? How many years as a breeder?

Ingrid Linerud-Strom: I live in North Idaho in a small town a few miles from Coeur d’ Alene called Athol. I have been showing and breeding Akitas for 40 years.

What is my kennel name? How many dogs do I currently keep?

Ingrid Linerud-Strom: My kennel name is Crown Royal Akitas. Right now I have four dogs and usually keep no more than six.

Which show dogs from the past have been my noteworthy winners?

Ingrid Linerud-Strom: Am. Can. CH Crown Royals Get Off My Cloud, ROMPX, “Jagger,” was my biggest winner in the show ring. He won 30 All-Breed Bests in Show and 10 Specialty Bests in Show, including the National in 1998. He was breeder/owner-handled his whole career by me, and still holds the record for top breeder/owner-handled Akita. CH Crown Royals starting a Revolution, ROM was also a National Specialty Best of Breed winner and a multiple Group-winning dog. He also won back-to-back Top 20s at our National Specialty in 2009 & 2010. Am. Can. CH Crown Royals Akai O Kashi CD, ROMPX was the top-winning Akita Bitch in 1984 and 1986, and won Best of Opposite Sex at the ‘86 National Specialty. I have had many more dogs in the Top 10 over my years of breeding. At last count, I have produced over 100 AKC Champions.

Which have been my most influential sires and dams?

Ingrid Linerud-Strom: I have bred and/or owned 17 Register of Merit producers. My most consistent male would probably be CH Crown Royals See ‘N Stars, ROMPX. He is in the pedigree of many top-producing kennels in the US. A dog I bought back in the early 1990s was an incredible producer. His name was Noji’s The Count Crown Royal, ROMPX. I wish we were collecting frozen semen back then!
He consistently produced incredible Akita puppies. I firmly believe that the strength of anyone’s kennel is in the quality of your bitches. I have been blessed in having several top-producing bitches. Am. Can. CH Crown Royals Akia O Kashi CD, ROMPX produced 11 champions and is one of my foundation bitches. CH Crown Royals Merit Of Cashmere, ROMPX produced 10 Champions, and CH Noji Ivy Of Crown Royal produced 11 champions. All of these girls are behind many top lines today.

Can I talk a bit about my facilities? Where are my puppies whelped? How are they raised?

Ingrid Linerud-Strom: I live on 10 acres of land. My kennel building has six inside/outside runs. I have three grassed dog yards, about an acre each. Our land is covered in trees, so tons of shade. The kennels and play yards are six-foot chain link fencing. I also have a whelping/grooming room in my home where I bathe and whelp puppies. My puppies are always raised in the home, with tons of socialization. I have different music playing and as many visitors as possible. My puppies begin eating meals at around 3 weeks old. I feed quality food and supplement with Vitamin C and a probiotic.

What is my “process” for selecting Show Puppies? Performance Puppies?

Ingrid Linerud-Strom: I do my puppy evaluations the 8 weeks. I use Pat and Bob Hastings’ evaluation sheets. I also evaluate temperament from the time they are born.

Do I compete in Performance Events? In Parent Club Tests & Trials?

Ingrid Linerud-Strom: I have obtained CD on my Akita, CH Crown Royals Akai O Kashi CD. I obtained her title in three shows with scores of 190, 191 & 194! I have also had several Akitas get their CGCs.

Is “performance” part of my decision-making when it comes to breeding?

Ingrid Linerud-Strom: Yes. Even though I show mainly in Conformation, you must have a confident dog that loves to show. Temperament is very important in our breed and it is very important that we breed only stable dogs. Akitas are a dominant breed and must be raised correctly.

How would I define “conditioning” as it relates to my breed?

Ingrid Linerud-Strom: Conditioning starts with diet. Never try to save money on bad dog food. My dogs get plenty of exercise daily. They are crate-trained as young puppies, but only go in crates when getting shown or going for a car ride. If you are considering campaigning a dog, much more conditioning is needed. I road work my specials daily for about two miles.

Are there any health-related concerns in my breed? Any special nutritional needs?

Ingrid Linerud-Strom: I have used OFA for all my dogs since the 1980s. Akitas can have hip issues and eye issues. Gastric torsion is also a problem in our breed, so my dogs get one Gas-X daily with their meals.

Do I think my breed is supported by a sufficient number of preservation breeders?

Ingrid Linerud-Strom: We have some preservation breeders, but can always use more!

Is my breed well suited to be a family dog? Who are the best candidates to own my breed?

Ingrid Linerud-Strom: Akitas are the most loyal dog. They are also very stubborn and need a firm owner who lets them know their boundaries early in life. They make incredible, loving companions if raised correctly. My kids were raised with the Akita, and now my grandkids too.

What is the biggest misconception about my breed? What is my breed’s best-kept secret?

Ingrid Linerud-Strom: The biggest misconception is that they do not shed! I cannot tell you how many people I have talked to who think they do not shed! I tell them that when they are in coat they do not shed, but when they blow coat it’s hair everywhere for weeks. Their best-kept secret is how vocal they can be. Not barking, but they talk to you.

If I could share a comment or two with judges of my breed, what would I like to say to them?

Ingrid Linerud-Strom: When you step into the Akita ring, find the dog with TYPE, and then reward soundness! So many judges are putting up dogs with no type: tall, upright ears, rangy bodies, flat feet, and light, round eyes. Type is what makes an Akita an Akita. A great handler once told me, “You can find a sound dog at the shelter.” Type is what makes your Akita who he is. This does not mean breed unsound dogs, but type is so important!

Do I have any words of wisdom to pass along to newer breeders?

Ingrid Linerud-Strom: I got my first Akita after attending a dog show and seeing several different breeders’ Akitas. This was back in 1979! I found the breeder who bred beautiful Akitas, but it took me almost two years of waiting to get my puppy from them. So, research your breeders and then do not be afraid to wait for that special puppy.

For a bit of fun, what’s the most amusing thing I’ve ever experienced with a Working Dog?

Ingrid Linerud-Strom: This question has me thinking. The best story I have to tell is when Sally Compton, “Jagger’s” co-owner, and I went to Paintsville, Kentucky, for a show. Jagger was always taken to a place to be let out to potty before we got to the show. We let him out, and he ran over a little hill and came back with coal sludge all over him! Sally and I are from the Pacific Northwest, so we knew nothing about coal sludge. (But it does not just wash out!) Needless to say, Jagger went into the Breed ring wet! That day, after we won the breed, we got him cleaned up and he went on to win a Best in Show that day! Never a dull moment showing dog. Dogs have been my passion my entire life.

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The Bond of Love

Hachiko, an Akita, was born on November 10, 1923, at a farm situated near the city of Odate, Akita Prefecture. The following year, Hidesaburo Ueno, a professor at Tokyo Imperial University, brought him to live in Shibuya, Tokyo, where he became his beloved pet.

Every day, the dog would wait at the train station for his owner to return from work. They would walk home together, and Hachiko would then accompany the professor to the station again the next morning. It was a routine that they both cherished.

As time passed, Hachiko’s love for his owner only grew stronger. He became known around the train station for his loyalty and devotion, and people would often stop to admire him. The bond between Hachiko and Professor Ueno was a symbol of the unbreakable bond that can exist between humans and dogs.

The Tragic Loss: Hachiko’s Final Goodbye

One day, Professor Ueno did not return home. He had suffered a stroke and passed away while at work. Hachiko waited at the station, as usual, but his owner never came. Despite this, he continued to wait every day for the next nine years, nine months, and fifteen days. He became a fixture at the station, and his unwavering loyalty and devotion touched the hearts of everyone who saw him.

During this time, Hachiko was cared for by the professor’s family and the community around the train station. He was given food and water, and people would often stop to pet him and offer him comfort. But despite all this, he remained devoted to his owner and continued to wait at the station every day.

On March 8, 1935, Hachiko passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 11. His death was attributed to cancer and a filarial infection. His passing was mourned by many, and a statue of Hachiko was erected at the Shibuya station to honor his loyalty and devotion.

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The Symbol of Love: Hachiko’s Legacy

Hachiko’s story is one of the most powerful examples of unconditional love in history. His loyalty and devotion to his owner, even after death, is a symbol of the love that humans and dogs can share.

Today, the statue of Hachiko at the Shibuya train station in Tokyo has become a symbol of love and devotion, not only in Japan but around the world. People come from all over to pay their respects to this loyal dog and to be inspired by his story. Hachiko’s legacy lives on as a reminder of the unbreakable bond that can exist between humans and dogs and of the power of love to transcend—even in death.

National Museum of Nature and Science

Hachiko is also remembered at the National Museum of Nature and Science in Ueno, Tokyo. In 2011, the museum acquired Hachiko’s preserved remains, including his fur and internal organs. The museum displays his remains as a tribute to his loyalty and devotion to his owner, and as a symbol of the special bond between humans and dogs.

The display also includes a replica of Hachiko’s famous statue at the Shibuya train station. Visitors can see his remains and learn more about his story, as well as the science behind the preservation of animal specimens.

The acquisition of Hachiko’s remains by the museum was a significant event in Japan, as it highlighted the cultural significance of Hachiko’s story and his place in Japanese history. The display at the museum serves as a lasting tribute to Hachiko and his legacy as a symbol of love and devotion.

 People come from all over to pay their respects to this loyal dog and to be inspired by his story. Hachiko’s legacy lives on as a reminder of the unbreakable bond that can exist between humans and dogs and of the power of love to transcend—even in death.

Movie Adaptations

In 1987, a Japanese film called “Hachiko Monogatari” was released. The film, directed by Seijiro Koyama and starring Tatsuya Nakadai as Professor Ueno and Tamasaburo Bando as Hachiko, was a dramatized version of Hachiko’s story. The movie received critical acclaim and became a box office success in Japan. It helped to bring Hachiko’s story to a wider audience in Japan and other parts of the world

In 2009, an American adaptation titled “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale” was released, starring Richard Gere as Professor Parker Wilson, a character based on Professor Ueno. The film was directed by Lasse Hallström and written by Stephen P. Lindsey. The movie received mixed reviews but became popular among audiences, especially dog lovers. It helped to introduce Hachiko’s story to a new generation of viewers and further cemented his legacy as a symbol of love and devotion.

Featured photo: Tokyo, Japan – January 16, 2020: A picture of the Hachiko Memorial Statue, in Shibuya.

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If it were necessary to describe the Akita in one word, dignity would suffice for it is this concept that the breed embodies. Whether in a proud stance or in no-nonsense movement, the breed’s dignified presence is its most distinct quality. Each element described in the Breed Standard is designed to contribute to this impression. We like to say, “An Akita owns the ground he stands on.”

Those who know me will tell you that I’m a “head person.” I’ll admit there is some truth in that, for it would be hard to deny the importance of the head since it is a core element of breed type. There is an emphasis in the Akita Breed Standard on the head. The broad and triangular-shaped head is complemented by the harmonizing triangular shape of the dark eyes and ears that are strongly erect, slightly rounded at the tips, small in relation to the head, carried slightly forward over the eyes, and in line with the back of the neck. The result is an alert and courageous expression that is present in both males and females.

As a balancing agent to the large head, there is a large, full tail, set high and carried over the back. It cannot trail behind nor be up in the air but must rest against the flank in a three-quarter, full or double curl, always dipping to or below the level of the back.

Although the Akita is in the bottom range of the large-sized breed category. With the ideal size of males between 26″ and 28″ at the withers and females between 24″ and 26″, an Akita’s size and obvious strength leave a lasting impression on all who see him. At the same time, there is no harshness in his appearance for the short, thick, and lustrous double coat softens the rugged outline of muscle and bone.

While we may all have our personal preference as to colors and markings, all coat colors are permitted, including white, brindle, and pinto. Colors are rich, clear, and brilliant. The Standard speaks about well-balanced markings, with or without masks or blazes. Though I’ve always had a personal fondness for a well-marked pinto, some of my favorite Akitas of all time have not been pintos, but all have been distinguished by their unquestionable breed type, balance and proportion, outstanding movement, especially on the side, and brilliant color.

Having originated in mountainous terrain, the Akita is agile and moves with purpose. In his driving movement, the Akita combines great power with precision and smoothness. Every step is a purposeful expression of the dog’s own will. His gait is balanced and efficient. He covers the ground in brisk strides of moderate length characterized by good reach and drive. For me, moving at a high speed and racing around the ring, are not the same as “covering ground.” Quite simply, it does not compensate for proper reach and drive.

The breed’s character is reserved, silent, and dominant over other canines. Although the Akita is unruffled by minor irritations, he is alert and intolerant toward other dogs, particularly those of the same sex. Akitas are known for their loyalty and devotion to family. With their owners, the Akita is a delightful companion. Friendly strangers are treated with respect, but trespassers find the door, yard, and personal property protected by a formidable figure.

They are independent thinkers. I witnessed some of that independence while watching one of my Akitas on a long down in Obedience. It was a warm, sunny day, and when “JD’s” handler left the ring and waited behind a blind, my dog got up, walked over to the shaded area where the judges were seated and lay down. As if on cue, he went back to his original position before his handler returned.

Imagine my handler’s surprise when he was told “JD” had failed the exercise and why! He did eventually pass and earned his C.D., but his behavior spoke volumes about the nature of Akitas! That said, Akitas do accept training and can be very willing participants in Conformation, as well as Obedience, Companion, and Performance events. You just have to be patient and it helps to be smarter than they are!

As Chair of the Judges’ Education Committee, providing potential and current judges with the knowledge they need to judge Akitas is very important to me and the members of the Committee. With the support of the Akita Club of America, we are in the process of developing an Illustrated Standard as a resource for judges, in particular, but it will also be a tool that can be used by breeders, owners, and others who are interested in the breed.

For a new judge, it goes without saying that a knowledge of the Standard is critical, but understanding how to use the Standard to inform judging separates a great judge from an average one. I try to present a judge with a sound methodology for their approach and examination of an Akita. My advice to anyone who is new to judging Akitas is to manage their ring, leaving adequate space between each dog and to initially and confidently greet the dogs by “waking the line.”

This provides a first glimpse at both fronts and heads with a quick impression of eyes, ears, and expression. Then, take a look at the profiles of the dogs. This is an excellent opportunity to observe balance, front and rear, head and tail, topline, length of body, depth of chest, reaching to the elbow which should equal half the height of the dog at the withers. Of course, this is all followed by a thorough hands-on examination of each dog, paying careful attention to the fine points that make an Akita distinct and unique, e.g. the shape of the eyes, carriage of the ears, the crest of neck blending into the shoulders, and so much more. Finally, a careful look at front, rear, and side gait. Then, it’s decision time!

I got my first Akita in 1980 and have been owned and loved by them ever since. Although there are exceptions, you will probably not typically meet an Akita running loose on the beach or in a dog park. Akita ownership presents some challenges and, as a result, they are not the breed for everyone. Personally, they fill me with laughter, unconditional love, and devotion. I can’t imagine and don’t want to think about my life without an Akita! 

The Dignified Akita – Showsight Magazine November 2019 Issue

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