Association

Suomen Suurijapaninkoira ry. – the Finnish Great Japanese Dog Club was established in the autumn of 2003. Previously we belonged to the Akita & Shiba Association, but we felt a need for an independent club through the separation of the Japanese and American Akita which also meant that the GJD was transferred to FCI Group 2 whereas the Akita remained in Group 5 (the Spitz Group). The two breeds were so different, in their ways and in their history that the formation of a Club to solely serve the interests of the GJD was necessary.

In the beginning of year 2006 the name of the breed changed from Great Japanese Dog to American Akita and Finnish Great Japanese Club was re-named Finnish American Akita Club.

The purpose of our Club is to promote and maintain the breeding of the purebred American Akita as well as to provide information to aspiring breeders.

holds records and publishes show and obedience trial results
offers advice to member breeders
organises dog shows
organises obedience training as well as lectures to the membership and breed judges
publishes a club newsletter
has a club library; members may borrow books, magazines and video cassettes about the breed
promotes all canine activities, particularly those related to breeding and training; is actively involved in the further development of the American Akita

Our club with its range of activities covers all of Finland. At the same time we are keen to learn about the breeds development both at home and abroad. We are most interested in the breeds development in the US, the true country of origin despite the breeds earlier and rather distant links to Japan.

We are members in the Suomen Kennelliitto (The Finnish Kennel Club) and in the Suomen Seurakoirayhdistys (The Finnish Companion Dog Club). We will also apply for the membership in the Akita Club of America (ACA).

Please contact us if you would like to join us in the Club activities!

Do join us! You can print a membership application in a pdf or doc form.