The Long Coat Akita, also known as Woolies, has a fascinating origin rooted in the snowy regions of northern Japan. They were created by crossing the Akita and the Karafuto Ken (also called Sakhalin Husky) to provide the Akita breed with a warmer and more insulating coat, perfect for cold climates. Known for their loyalty and affection with family, these dogs needed an extra layer of protection against harsh weather conditions.

The Karafuto Ken is a native sled dog of Russia, with a thick double undercoat, making it an ideal candidate for this crossbreeding. The process took place around the 1900s, with breeders playing a significant role in ensuring the success of this mix.

As a result of the crossbreeding, Long Coat Akitas inherited not just their beautiful long fur but also the robust endurance and physical prowess of both parent breeds. It’s important to note that these Woolies were not intentionally bred but instead showed up in regular Akita litters as a result of the Karafuto gene being carried down through generations.

Over time, the Long Coat Akita has gained popularity, and more people have come to appreciate the unique appearance and lovable traits of this breed. While still relatively rare, these gorgeous dogs continue to capture the hearts and minds of dog enthusiasts everywhere. So if you’re considering a Long Coat Akita as a pet, you’re sure to enjoy the rich history and remarkable attributes of this wonderful breed.

When it comes to the genetics behind the long hair trait in Akitas, it’s essential to understand the role of the FGF5 gene. The fibroblast growth factor-5 (FGF5) gene is responsible for determining coat length in dogs. In Akitas, the long-haired phenotype results from recessive mutations in this gene. What this means for you, as an Akita owner or enthusiast, is that the presence of these recessive genes in the gene pool can lead to the occasional long-haired specimen.

There is a specific variant of the FGF5 gene that is found in Akitas, which is the c.578C˃T variant, causing the long coat. Long hair starts to become visible in Akitas at 3-4 weeks of age. Canine genetic testing can identify these FGF5 variants, and breeders can use DNA testing to ensure their breeding pairs don’t carry two copies of this long-haired allele.

It’s important to keep in mind that long-haired Akitas result from the combination of two recessive genes. This means that if two dogs carrying the recessive gene are bred together, there is a chance that some puppies in the litter will inherit both copies of the gene and thus express the long-haired trait. Breeders who perform genetic testing for the long-haired alleles can limit the occurrence of long-haired Akitas in their litters.

Having a knowledge of canine genetics, particularly when it comes to coat length, is essential for any responsible breeder or owner. By understanding how these recessive genes contribute to the long-haired trait, you’ll have a greater appreciation for the unique beauty of long-haired Akitas and be better equipped to make informed decisions regarding their care and breeding.