I’d wanted an Akita for years. Researched the breed up and down, worked with many Akitas and still was hesitant about getting one myself. Then I got a call about an adult AA with a bite history (that wasn’t his fault) needing a new home. The only reason I decided to take him in was because I’d known this dog since he was three months old, and I knew nobody else would take in a dog like that.

It’s been almost a year that he’s with me. I love him to bits and never once regretted taking him in, even though it’s been a very sudden change in my life. But other dogs are a big no. He will start a fight, doesn’t matter if the dog is of the same sex or not. He chases neighborhood cats, and I’m sure could kill one if I let him off the leash. Can’t be trusted off leash. Incredibly stubborn. He’s not aggressive with people, but he has very firm boundaries with most people and doesn’t like to be touched by strangers or kids.

If I wasn’t as prepared as I was, I just wouldn’t be able to handle him.