Viewers of the film “Hachiko: The Most Faithful Friend” fell in love with the main character. Therefore, they want to know what breed is the dog that starred in this sad story. The cute dog, who played the main role in the famous movie, belongs to the Japanese Akita Inu breed. In Japan itself, these dogs are treated with care and reverence, believing that they bring good luck and happiness. They are taken in this country under the protection of the state.
This dog breed appeared a long time ago, but gained popularity quite recently. Thus, according to Russian statistics, after the release of the film “Hachiko” in 2009, the number of people wishing to buy Akita Inu dogs increased by about 20 percent .
History of character creation
The Akita Inu dog was born on a farm in a prefecture in the north of the island of Honshu in Japan. The owner kept his faithful friend with him for a year, and then gave him to a professor who taught agriculture at a university in Tokyo.
Still from the film “Hachiko: The Most Faithful Friend”
Professor Ueno accepted the present. He named the dog Hachiko. This name means "eighth" in Japanese. Every day the owner went to work, and the loving dog accompanied him to the station and waited for the professor to return at the door of the railway station.
A sad moment in history came in 1925. Hachiko was then 18 months old. As usual, he waited for the professor at the station, but he did not return home. A man had a heart attack at the university. He died on the spot. Kind people picked up the dog and handed it over to new owners, but he could not bear the loss. He constantly ran away and came to the old house in which he lived with his beloved professor.
Realizing that the owner was not returning, the dog ran away to the station. Every day he came to the station at the time when the train on which Ueno returned from work arrived, and waited for its arrival.
Hachiko is waiting for her owner (Still from the film “Hachiko: The Most Faithful Friend”)
The dog spent 10 long years waiting. Every day she was seen on the platform. Passers-by brought food to the faithful dog and fed him. The dog ate what it was treated to and did not think about self-preservation, living in dreams of the appearance of its owner.
One day, a former student of the professor noticed the dog. The new owners spoke about its tragic history. The student was touched to the depths of his soul. Repeatedly visiting the animal, he wrote several articles about the devotion of Akita Inu dogs to their owners.
One such material was published in 1933 in the largest Japanese newspaper. The legend of the dog became a sensation. She was cited as an example and praised at the right opportunity. As a sign of gratitude for loyalty, a bronze monument dedicated to Hachiko was erected on the platform.
Hachiko Monument at Shibuya Station
The dog was present during its installation. During World War II, the statue was melted down, but in 1948, the son of the sculptor who created the original version restored the monument.
Hachiko died in 1935 in Shibuya. According to doctors, death was caused by cancer accompanied by a heart infection. Japan declared national mourning on this day. The statue of Hachiko, as a symbol of fidelity, still stands at the station and awaits the arrival of his beloved owner instead of a devoted dog.
Formation, almost complete destruction and revival of the breed
Dogs from the northernmost regions of Japan began to be recorded in stud books already in the 15th century, when representatives of the noble class became interested in them.
In the 16th century, the first clubs for Akita Inu lovers appeared. Then, with the inherent scrupulousness of the Japanese, detailed manuals were compiled on the maintenance, training and breeding of these dogs.
In the 17th century, they began to be used in dog fighting, and to increase their size they were crossed with mastiffs and with large specimens of the Tosa Inu fighting breed. There were fewer and fewer purebred Akitas, and at the beginning of the 20th century, the authorities realized that they could lose one of their oldest dogs.
Work to restore the breed was interrupted by the Second World War. Upon its completion, it turned out that the Akita Inu were almost completely destroyed, because the ban on extermination applied only to German shepherds.
Fortunately, some noble families managed to preserve several Akitas during the war, with whose participation the breed was restored and its active development began. Akita Inu were officially registered in 1964.
Thanks to cinema, the whole world knows what breed Hachiko was, and residents of the Land of the Rising Sun proudly call Akita “the treasure of Japan.” Let's find out the main features of the exterior and character of famous and extremely popular dogs today.
Film adaptations
The first film about an animal who believed until the end of his days that his beloved owner would return to him was released in 1987. It was directed by Seijiro Koyama. The film was a success in Asia, but the story about Hachiko received worldwide recognition after the release of the remake. The action of the second film is moved to America. His hero was Professor Peter Wilson, played by actor Richard Gere.
Actor Richard Gere
A professor living in the suburbs found a small Akita Inu puppy at the railway station. The dog was sent from Japan to the USA and was lost along the way. The note that came with the animal stated that its name was Hachiko.
The station employees did not want to shelter the baby, and the professor took him into his house until the real owner appeared. The man's family was not happy about the animal's appearance, but over time they got used to the dog, seeing how much happiness it brought Wilson.
Like the prototype from the original story, Hachiko accompanied the savior to the station every day when he left for work in the city. When a tragic incident occurred and the professor did not arrive, his family took Hachiko from the station. The dog returned to his usual place day after day, and the professor’s relatives did not prevent him from leaving, and the station employees did not drive him away.
Professor Peter Wilson and Hachiko
9 years later, Hachiko passed away. Before his death, he dreamed of his owner returning home, and this scene turned out to be the most powerful and touching in the film.
The film starred three Akita Inu puppies and three adult dogs, portraying the four-legged hero. In 1989, the film “Tethered at the Runway” was released in the Soviet Union, the plot of which was reminiscent of Hachiko’s biography. A book could be written on it, but so far no author has taken on such a project.
Friend, guard, companion
Another national name for the Akita Inu is the samurai dog. These are naturally intelligent, balanced and surprisingly restrained dogs. For centuries, they were raised by hunting, where fearlessness and submission, devotion to the owner and selflessness are required from the dog.
Akitas are ideal for single people and do well in large families. These dogs understand their owner perfectly, feel his mood and emotional state. The Akita can be left to look after the crawling toddler, or the dog will be happy to entertain an older child.
The relatives of the legendary Hachiko lack aggression, but are naturally fearless. They do not attack strangers without a reason, but in case of danger they will not hesitate to rush to the defense of family members. These dogs also rarely speak, and they can be heard in a truly force majeure situation.
It is not out of idle curiosity that people are interested in what breed of dog is in the film “Hachiko”. This means they have a desire to make such a friend. However, it is important to consider that the puppy will have all these qualities only if properly raised.
Akitas mature late - by 2-2.5 years, but they need to be trained from early childhood, especially if you want to make a guard or hunter out of the dog. Smart by nature, smiling samurai study with pleasure.
Interesting Facts
- Akita Inu dogs have always been in demand in Japan, but after the release of the film about Hachiko, a real boom in these animals began. The first mention of the breed appeared in 1600. Scientists confirm that such dogs were the guards of kings and were often taken hunting.
Akita Inu dog
- This breed appeared in America by accident. A certain Helen Keller brought a puppy back from a trip to Japan. In the land of the rising sun, she learned about the touching story of a little faithful friend and got a puppy, who turned out to be a pioneer in the United States. The pet brought a lot of joy to the owner, but soon died of distemper. The Japanese government, having learned about what had happened, gave Keller the brother of the deceased dog.
- After World War II, American soldiers stationed in Asia returned home with Akita Inu puppies. Since 1956, this breed has actively spread to the United States, and the American Akita with stronger immunity was bred.
American Akita
- There has been heated debate among dog breeders for a long time about the varieties of Akita Inu, but in 1972 the American breed was officially accepted into the US Kennel Club. A distinctive feature of these animals was loyalty and courage. Once upon a time, they were looking for a helper for an orphaned tiger cub in an American zoo and chose an Akita puppy.
- Akita dogs are distinguished by their kindness, commitment to family, love of children, loyalty and fearlessness. These are true friends and life partners. Therefore, there are many art photos and memes on the Internet praising this breed.
Description of the Akita-Inu dog breed
It is known that the main character of the film “Hachiko: The Best Friend” is an Akita Inu dog. Let's try to tell about it.
The Japanese Akita Inu originated on the island of Honshu, and received its name from the name of the Akita province. According to legends, the ancestors of these dogs were Spitz-type breeds crossed with mastiffs. In ancient times, the Akita Inu was a good hunting dog, without which a person could not go hunting. It was Akita dogs that easily defeated any animal: bear, deer, and wild boar.
During the Great Patriotic War of 1941–1945, the Akita breed was destroyed, because only German shepherds were needed for the army. To save the Akita, many owners tried during this period to cross their dogs with the German Shepherd. This is how the modern type of Akita breed turned out.
Today there is a slightly different type of Akita dog, which is officially approved. She was nicknamed the big Japanese dog or the American Akita - Inu. She was bred after the Japanese gave the Akita to Helen Adams Keller, who lived in America.
What does a Japanese Akita Inu dog look like? The appearance features are as follows:
- The coat color can be any, but only natural.
- The coat itself is long, beautiful and silky.
- The height of an adult dog reaches 57–71, but the female will be slightly smaller.
By nature, these dogs are brave, of course, loyal, intelligent and active. They are easy to train, they love children, and will never offend their owner. If the family where they grow up also has pets, then they will be treated with respect. It is believed that Akita dogs are excellent helpers, good companions in any business, intelligent guards and loving and caring nannies.
Most often, dogs of this breed are used in the following areas:
- Police.
- Rescue service.
- Guide for the blind.
Hachiko Monument in Tokyo
A dog that doesn't bark: a breed of silent dogs
One of the important landmarks of Japan is the Hachiko statue located in Shibuya. It was installed to pay tribute to the most faithful dog in the world, who continued to wait for his owner even after death.
Professor Ueno from the University of Tokyo truly became related to Hachiko. The dog, even after the death of its owner, continued to wait for him in the same place where the statue now stands.
Monument to the faithful dog Hachiko
Since this story has become a legend, many tourists who plan to visit Shibuya prioritize visiting that very place. Every day, many foreigners queue to take a memorable photo with the dog statue. And in 2009, based on the script of the same name, they even decided to make a film about the faithful and devoted Hachiko.
Breed care
The Akita Inu is a fun-loving dog and thrives as a member of an active and loving family. This breed does not need a ton, but a good amount of daily exercise. 30 minutes of walking a day will be enough for an Akita, but the walks should be brisk, perhaps with jogging. Visiting the park with your dog is probably not a good idea, as Akitas can be aggressive towards other dogs.
Due to the high level of intelligence of this breed, it will require changes in its daily routine. If an Akita becomes bored, it can lead to behavior problems such as excessive barking, digging, chewing and aggression. Keep your Akita occupied at family events and don't leave him alone for long periods of time.
A secure and fenced yard fence is also important to keep strangers and strangers safe who may mistakenly enter their property. At the same time, Akitas are usually not aggressive towards guests if there are owners in the house. These dogs are true protectors and will protect the owner from anything they perceive as a threat.
Particular attention should be paid to Akita when raising puppies. These dogs grow rapidly between four and seven months of age, making them prone to bone disorders. They thrive on a quality low-calorie diet that will curb their excessive growth. Also, don't let your puppy run or play on hard surfaces like asphalt; playing on the grass is much better for them. Avoid forced jumping and running on hard surfaces until at least two years of age, when his joints are fully developed.
Watch or not
One of the legends about the appearance of domestic animals claims that the first of the animals once came to people in order to learn from them life values. But everyone knows that moral principles in modern life have faded into the background. Today they talk so much about free love and open relationships, thereby rejecting such values as fidelity and devotion. The film “Hachiko: The Most Faithful Friend” teaches something completely different. And here – let’s be honest – many people can and should learn from Hachiko. His loyalty knows no bounds, his devotion and love for his owner brings tears even to inveterate cynics.
Every person should watch this film. The film is perfect for family viewing with children.
After all, it is in the new generation that we see our future, and therefore the children need to be raised correctly. In this sense, the film “Hachiko: The Most Faithful Friend” is able to instill in our children exactly those moral values that every person should follow. There are no scenes of sex or violence, there is no swearing or drinking alcohol. This touching and kind film is recommended for everyone to watch.
Back Next
The best foreign comedies about dogs - our rating
Pets give us many reasons to laugh, both in life and in movies. The funniest and best films about dogs are collected in this collection.
Turner and Hooch
Year: 1989
Country: USA
Genre: Comedy, Crime
Director: Roger Spottiswoode
A charming detective comedy about the relationship between a police detective played by Tom Hanks and the Dogue de Bordeaux Hooch (played by Beasley's dog). The detective is neat, pedantic and collected. Hooch is restless, mischievous and capricious.
An interesting and touching film about difficult relationships, self-sacrifice, friendship and mutual understanding. There are many funny scenes, a fascinating investigation (after all, Hooch is the only witness to the murder of his former owner), a lyrical line and excellent acting by Tom Hanks.
Despite the sad ending, the movie turned out to be kind, cheerful and bright. Many viewers believe that this is one of the best films about dogs of the 20th century.
Trailer:
K-9
Year: 1989
Country: USA
Genre: Action, Comedy, Crime
Director: Rod Daniel
Another old (1989) detective comedy with a wonderful actor in the title role. This time before the audience is a charming duet - James Belushi and the shepherd Jerry Lee.
Interesting fact : the role of Jerry Lee is played by as many as four dogs, who were trained in a European kennel, where the dogs involved in the famous TV series “Commissioner Rex” took a training course.
A funny, dynamic, positive and kind movie about a policeman and his four-legged partner, who have to make friends, bring a drug dealer to justice and save the policeman's wife, Tracy.
Trailer:
Marley and me
Year: 2008
Country: USA
Genre: drama, comedy, family
Director: David Frankel
A film about the difficult relationship between spouses and Labrador Marley. The role of the husband is played by Owen Wilson (“Midnight in Paris”, “Shanghai Noon”, “Night at the Museum”), and his wife is played by the incomparable Jennifer Aniston.
The film is both funny and sad . On the one hand, you can’t look at how naughty little Marley behaves without smiling. On the other hand, this story touches on complex issues: postpartum depression, the difficulties and pitfalls of family life, the finiteness of the lives of four-legged friends. At the same time, the film is not heavy and in no way depressing. A movie about life, relationships and one very naughty dog.
Trailer:
Snow dogs
Year: 2002
Country: Canada, USA
Genre: Comedy, Adventure, Family, Sports
Director: Brian Levant
A funny and fascinating story tells about a young dentist from hot Florida who learned that he had been left an inheritance in distant Alaska. This inheritance included not only the house, but also a team of sled dogs and a pet border collie. A dentist played by Cuba Gooding Jr. (“Jerry McGuire,” “As Good As It Gets,” “Pearl Harbor”) must learn the secrets of his family, find love and establish relationships with sled dogs who do not want to recognize him as their owner.
Beautiful nature, an interesting plot, kindness and humor, combined with high-quality acting and wonderful dogs, make “Snow Dogs” a really good film.
Interesting fact : some of the dogs from the team starred in the dramatic film “White Captivity”.
Trailer:
How to steal a dog
Year: 2014
Country: South Korea
Genre: family, crime, drama
Director: Kim Seon-ho
Korean film based on the novel by Barbara O'Connor , filmed in 2014.
Little Chi-so's father is ruined, and the family ends up on the street without a home or money. An advertisement about searching for a missing dog for a reward gives the girl the idea of getting money for her family by stealing a rich lady's dog.
The film turned out to be deep and interesting, kind and bright. It touches on themes of family and the importance of home, friendship and memory, selflessness and greed.
Viewers admire the excellent acting, funny plot and clear, but not intrusive moral message of the film.
Trailer:
Beverly Hills babe
Year: 2008
Country: USA, Mexico
Genre: drama, melodrama, comedy
Director: Raja Gosnell
The story of the capricious Chihuahua Chloe, who is kidnapped in Mexico, unfolds before the audience Chloe escapes from the organizers of underground dog fighting, enlisting the help of Delgado, a former police shepherd. The niece of her owner and company are looking for the baby, and the Doberman El Diablo also wants to get to her.
Talking dogs with bright personalities, a fascinating plot, funny jokes - this movie is suitable for family viewing and will surely appeal to children.
Glamorous doggie get-togethers, spas for rich dogs, adventures in the desert - there is something to see and laugh at !
Trailer:
Ginger dog
Year: 2011
Country: Australia, USA
Genre: drama, melodrama, comedy, family
Director: Kriv Stenders
Film 2011 based on the book by Louis de Brenières , which is based on the true story of Red Dog, who traveled through the Pilbara region of Australia.
An interesting movie about how an independent and cute pet changed the lives of harsh workers, how he managed to awaken bright and kind feelings in harsh people. A heartwarming story about how the Red Dog influenced the life of every person who became his owner, friend or traveling companion for a while.
The ending of the movie is sad, but bright . The film is worth watching for those who appreciate live animals (and not computer graphics), thoughtfulness of the plot, sincerity and the connection between the events on the screen and real life.
Trailer:
The Road Home: An Incredible Journey
Year: 1993
Country: USA
Genre: drama, comedy, adventure, family
Director: Dwayne Dunham
The owners leave their two dogs and a cat with friends and go on vacation. But Golden Retriever Shadow, American Bulldog Chance and Himalayan Cat Sessie are too bored and worried that their owners have been away for so long. The alarmed pets decide to go in search of their people. They will have to get to the shelter, find themselves in a stormy river, meet a puma and bears, and walk through the mountains. A kind, funny and touching film with stunning landscapes, the cutest animals and exciting adventures.
Trailer:
Character of the breed
The Akita Inu is a brave and willful dog that is wary of strangers but is very loyal to its family. She is always vigilant, smart and courageous. Akitas tend to be aggressive towards other dogs, especially those of the same gender. The Akita is best suited for families with one dog.
In the family, Akita Inu is affectionate and playful. She is a constant companion in joint family activities. This dog loves to play with toys and various household items. Despite the general belief that the Akita never barks, it is actually quite noisy and can grumble and moan, and, if necessary, bark loudly.
Keep in mind that the Akita's personality can be overwhelming. This dog is not suitable for beginners or timid owners. She needs a firm and consistent owner who will provide the required level of discipline.
To prevent boredom, dogs of this breed will need plenty of exercise and physical activity. Otherwise, getting bored can lead to destructive results.
The Akita's natural protective instinct tends to become aggressive. Therefore, training and proper socialization of the breed is important from a very early age. Also keep in mind that this breed is stubborn and you will need a lot of patience to teach it the necessary manners.
How is the nickname Hachiko translated from Japanese?
Hachiko (less common variant - Hachiko) is a borrowed word whose spelling you need to remember. Hachiko is a Japanese nickname that translates as “eight”, “number eight”. Interestingly, in Japanese "eight" is pronounced "hachi", "hachi".
Interesting materials:
How to pay with thank you bonuses in the store? How to melt granulated wax? How to Propagate a Birch Tree? How are the object and its image located in relation to the mirror? How is North America located relative to Antarctica? How are active items located in the new balance sheet form? How to recognize a photo on Google? How does sound travel through space? How to calculate maternity payments? How to calculate the length of fabric for curtains?
