#PAW WEBBED DOG FEET VS NON WEBBED SKIN#Webbed paws are paws that have a thin, stretchy additional section of skin between the toes, so that the toes are joined together rather than being separated into individual digits. In this article we will share an introduction to five cool dog breeds that usually have webbed feet, and share some insights into how webbed feet helps water-loving dog breeds to swim and get around. Selective breeding to enhance this trait has played a part in the development of certain breeds too, so that today, there are several dog breeds that have webbed feet, which not everyone knows! But some breeds of dogs actually have webbed feet too, and for a few breeds, this is a standard breed trait that is perfectly normal and included within the breed standard.ĭog breeds with webbed feet have evolved in that way due to their natural affinities for water, and in many cases, these breeds have a long-recorded history of water retrieving or working in and around water, for which webbed paws is a distinct advantage. To learn more about the Akita, visit the Akita Club of America ()Īkita in Snow Courtesy Colleen Sullivan and Rebecca Ginsberg.When we think of animals with webbed feet, we tend to think of ducks, otters and various other amphibious animals that can be found living in and around water sources. But for those who do, it is an experience like none other, a chance to share your life with a national treasure. Not everyone has what it takes to live with one of these majestic dogs. Highly intelligent, strong-willed, and proud, the Akita responds best to respectful commands and positive-training techniques that rely on motivation rather than force. Independent and sometimes aloof with strangers, Akitas are affectionate with their families and form strong bonds. While most often seen in the conformation ring, there are also some Akitas in other dog sports, such as obedience and agility. Several hundred have been registered as therapy dogs and some have obtained the AKC Therapy Dog title and can be seen visiting nursing homes and hospitals, and doing reading programs with children at schools and libraries. When you see a group of Akitas tails, very few look the same.Īn Akita will groom himself like a cat, is clean, and housebreaking is usually not a problem.Īkitas are members of the AKC Working Group. Keller found the dogs to be “gentle, companionable, and trusty.”Īn Akita’s trademark is the plush tail that typically curls over his back. She was said to have been inspired by the legendary Hachiko, the loyal dog who became world famous for waiting nine years at a train station in hopes his dead owner would return. When a child is born in Japan, the proud family will usually receive a small statue of an Akita, signifying health, happiness, and a long life.įamous author and political activist Helen Keller is credited with bringing the first Akita into the United States in 1937. There is a spiritual significance attached to the Akita. Caring and feeding of the Akita were detailed in elaborate ceremony and special leashes were used to denote the Akita’s rank and the standing of his owner. At one time, Akita ownership was restricted to the Imperial family and the ruling aristocracy. The Akita is designated as a national treasure in his native country. It is safe to say they prefer colder weather, love eating snow, and rolling in it as a snow “scrub.” If there is snow on the ground, they will stay out all day hunting rabbit, squirrel, and other small game, in a securely fenced yard until relegated to come inside the house. When the weather turns cooler the dogs seem to have a “turbo” button that switches on. Historically, they keep their front dew claws because these “ice picks” help them climb out of icy water. There is a museum in Odate devoted to the breed.Īkitas have webbed toes to help walk on snow by distributing their weight more effectively. Before Akitas had an “official” breed name they were referred to simply as “snow country dogs.” The breed originated from the snowy, rural, mountainous region of Japan, Akita and Odate, where they were used to hunt boar, elk, and the small Yezo bear.
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