Akita

The Akita originated in the Akita prefecture in Northern Japan during the early 17th century. The breed's ancestors were developed by Matagi, hunters in Northern Japan, to chase down and hold large game animals at bay such as wild boar, Sika deer, and Asian black bear. It is said that an exiled aristocrat that was banished to rule the northernmost province of the island of Honshu encouraged the barons under his rule to develop a versatile hunting dog. Using the Matagi's dogs and large Asian and European breeds, the Akita was developed. During WWII, the Akita almost went extinct when the government ordered all non-military dogs to be killed due to food shortages and disease. The breed was saved by owners of Akitas releasing their dogs into the mountains or crossing them with German Shepherds so they would be considered a military breed.