Akita Inu, Hachikō and Wasao

The Akita (秋田犬 Akita-inu^?) is a large spitz breed of dog originating from the mountainous northern regions of Japan. 

There are two separate varieties of Akita: a Japanese strain, known as the "Akita Inu" or "Japanese Akita"; and an American strain, known as the "Akita" or "American Akita". The Japanese strain comes in a small choice of colors, with all other colors considered atypical of the breed, while the American strain comes in all dog colors.

Both forms of Akita are probably best known worldwide from the true story of Hachikō, a loyal Akita dog who lived in Japan before World War II. refer to this mame chishiki post for the story of Hachikō

The Akita has a short double coat, similar to that of many other northern spitz breeds such as the Siberian Husky, but long coated dogs can be found in many litters due to a recessive gene.

The Akita is a strong, independent and dominant breed, commonly aloof with strangers but affectionate with family members. As a breed, Akitas are generally hardy, but they have been known to suffer from various genetic conditions and be sensitive to certain drugs. 

Wasao (わさお^?) is a 2011 Japanese film that is based on a true story of an abandoned Akita Dog.^[1]
  
Today, the breed is used primarily as a companion dog. However, the breed is currently also known to be used as therapy dogs,^[64] and compete in all dog competition.