The Japanese Akitainu

The FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale), or International Canine Federation, is the World Canine Organization, an international federation of national kennel clubs It sets and maintains breed standards, recognizes pedigrees, and oversees international dog shows and working trials. The FCI’s goal is to standardize dog breeds and ensure uniform judging criteria worldwide.

Akita Inu under FCI classification

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According to the official FCI standard, the breed known in the US as "Japanese Akitainu" is simply "Akita". 

• Breed Name: Akita (also called Akita Inu or in the USA Japanese Akitainu)

• Country of Origin: Japan

• Utilization: Companion dog

• FCI Group: Group 5 – Spitz and primitive types

• Section: Section 5 – Asian Spitz and related breeds

• Working trial: Not subject to a working trial

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LINK to FCI Standard: FCI Standard No

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In 1999, the FCI officially divided the original Akita type into two separate breeds:

1. Akita (Japanese Akita Inu) — FCI Standard No. 255 (origin: Japan)

2. American Akita (Great Japanese Dog,known in the USA as "Akita") — FCI Standard No. 344

This distinction preserves the Japanese Akita’s ancient lineage and separates it from the more robust American Akita, which developed a different type through Western breeding lines.