The Akita Inu (?) is a breed of large dog originating in Japan, named for Akita Prefecture, where it is thought to have originated. It is sometimes called the Akita-ken based on the Sino-Japanese reading of the same kanji. It is a separate breed from the American Akita, and is quite uncommon in many countries.
The breed stands anywhere from 60-66 cm (24-26 in) at the withers. Females weigh anywhere from 30-45 kg (70-100 lb) and males are 35-54 kg (75-119). The Akita Inu come in only five colors: Red, Fawn, Sesame, Brindle, and Pure White.
All except white must have whitish hair on the sides of the muzzle, on the cheeks, the neck, chest, body and tail. Black masks, as seen in the American Akita, are not permitted in the Japanese Akita Inu.