AKIHO United Europe is one of the branches of Akita Inu Hozonkai (Akita Dog Preservation Society, AKIHO in short) based in Europe in the Czech republic. AKIHO is the premier breed registry and club for the Japanese Akita worldwide.
AKIHO was founded in May 1927 in Odate, Japan with the purpose of preserving and promoting the Akita Inu breed. The main goal of AKIHO today is to continue preserving and promoting the Akita Inu breed in its traditional form, while also adapting to the changing needs of modern society.

The Akita Inu breed has a rich history that dates back nearly a century, and at the center of its preservation and promotion is the Akita Inu Hozonkai, commonly known as AKIHO. Founded in 1927 by Shigeya Izumi, mayor of Odate at that times, AKIHO has played a crucial role in the development and preservation of the Akita Inu breed, both in Japan and around the world.

In 1931, the Akita Inu breed was designated as a Natural Monument of Japan, which served as a significant milestone in the breed's recognition and preservation efforts. The first official registration of Akita dogs followed in 1937, and a year later, AKIHO established the first Akita Inu breed standard and organized the first Akiho exhibition.

After World War II, AKIHO held its first exhibition in 1949 and published its first biulletin. The following year, AKIHO was granted public corporation foundation status, which allowed it to continue its mission to preserve and promote the Akita Inu breed for future generations.

The year 1977 marked the 50th anniversary of AKIHO and the establishment of the Akita Inu Kaika, also known as the Akita Inu Hall. The headquarters office occupies the first floor, the second floor is for conference purposes, and the 3rd floor of the Akita Dog Museum is dedicated by dog preservation society in Japan to keep maintain pure blooded of Akita dog breed, and it designated as natural treasure. From the end of April until middle of November visitors can see real Akita dog at the kennel.

Today, AKIHO remains dedicated to preserving and promoting the Akita Inu breed, with a membership of both professional breeders and Akita enthusiasts. AKIHO exhibitions and seminars continue to be held throughout Japan and around the world, serving as a platform for the breed's development, education, and appreciation.

In conclusion, AKIHO's century-long commitment to the preservation and promotion of the Akita Inu breed is a testament to the breed's cultural significance and its status as one of Japan's natural treasures.

The primary objective of the Akita Inu Hozonkai organization is to safeguard and preserve the Akita Inu, a natural treasure of Japan. This involves maintaining the breed's original body shape, improving various aspects of the Akita Inu, and fostering the development of Akita Inu culture within Japan. Additionally, the organization aims to promote the Akita Inu as a globally recognized breed of dog, thereby enhancing its reputation and popularity across international borders.

To achieve the objectives stated in the preceding article, the organization shall engage in the following activities:

1) Registration of dog registry and kennel number and issuance of pedigree certificates concerning Akita Inu.
2) Holding exhibitions and appreciation meetings, and providing guidance and training through study groups and round-table discussions concerning Akita Inu.
3) Intensifying, protecting, breeding, and popularizing Akita Inu.
4) Publishing the newsletter "Akita Inu" and other publications.
5) Undertaking all other activities necessary to achieve the objectives of the society.

AKIHO shows in Europe 

AKIHO organizes Shibutens, which are yearly shows held in Europe (once or twice per year). The highest title that can be awarded at these shows outside of Japan is Eiyoshou, starting from the year 2023. Even if your Akita does not have an AKIHO pedigree, you can still enter them into these shows. However, you must arrive one day earlier or early in the morning before the show, pass a successful examination, and receive an AKIHO nintei. This nintei number is allocated to each Akita, is valid for two years, and enables you to show your Akita in AKIHO European Branch-organized shows. It is important to note that having an AKIHO nintei number does not mean that your Akita has an AKIHO pedigree or is listed in AKIHO breeding books. It is simply a number that permits you to show your Akita at these specific shows.

AKIHO shows in Japan

There are over 50 AKIHO branches located in Japan, each of which organizes several Shibuten shows throughout the year, with some hosting larger Sou-Shibuten events. Additionally, AKIHO holds two HQ exhibitions per year, known as Honbuten, which is considered the most prestigious title for Akitas worldwide, with the highest honor being the Meiyoshou award.

Photos of all Meiyoshou winners (Museum Akita Inu Hozonkai, Odate, Japan)