Education has always been an important part of the AKIHO philosophy. As part of the AKIHO United Europe Shibuten weekend, participants will have the unique opportunity to learn directly from respected experts from Japan and Europe.

OFFICIAL AKIHO Judges Seminar (Saturday)

Restaurant Rozvoj Mladá Boleslav

Presented by official AKIHO judges:

Akira SAITOU (Japan) & Nobuji TSUTSUI (Japan)

We are pleased to introduce the distinguished AKIHO judges who will be participating in this seminar. Their profiles and achievements can be found in the JUDGES section.

This seminar will provide valuable insight into the traditional AKIHO judging system and the qualities that define the authentic Japanese Akita Inu.

Topics will include:

- Evaluation of coat colours (red, brindle and white)

- Coat quality and structure

- The AKIHO judging and evaluation process

- Breed type, balance, movement and overall harmony

- What separates a Tokuyuu-winning dog from Meiyoshou-level Akita

- Common strengths and weaknesses seen in today’s Akitas

Participants will also have the opportunity to ask questions directly to the judges and gain a deeper understanding of traditional Japanese judging philosophy.

 

Special Seminar - Preserving the Breed, Shaping the Future (Saturday)

Restaurant Rozvoj Mladá Boleslav

Presented by FCI judge, breed specialist and Akita breeder:

Doncho BORISOV (Macedonia)

This seminar will focus on the current state of the Japanese Akita Inu, its development, and the challenges we face today as breeders, exhibitors, and judges. It will also explore the similarities and differences between judging under the FCI and AKIHO standards, as well as what we can do together to preserve the correct Akita type for future generations.

Seminar topics:

- The current state of the Japanese Akita Inu in different countries
- FCI & AKIHO – similarities and differences in judging
- Breed type, structure and movement
- Key characteristics essential for preserving the correct Akita type
- The most common concerns and challenges we see in the breed today
- The responsibility of breeders, exhibitors and judges for the future development of the breed
- Participants will also have the opportunity to join an open discussion and ask questions.

 

Handling Workshop (Sunday morning prior to the start of judging)

InterDog Bohemia

Presented by long-time Akita breeder:

Patrice ZELLER (France)

We are pleased to introduce Mr. Patrice Zeller, who will be presenting a special Handling Workshop for the United Europe Branch.

Mr. Zeller has dedicated more than 30 years to the Akita breed and has made numerous trips to Japan in pursuit of a deeper understanding of its history, traditions, and presentation.

He was honored to become the first non-Japanese exhibitor permitted to present an Akita in Odate, including at the prestigious Autumn Grand Exhibition, helping to open the door for future international participants.

Drawing on decades of experience and firsthand knowledge gained in Japan, Mr. Zeller will share valuable insights into the correct Japanese style of presenting an Akita in the show ring.

The workshop will focus on:

- Correct presentation of the Akita Inu in the ring

- Ring procedure and etiquette

- Movement and handling techniques

- Preparing your dog for evaluation

- Practical tips for AKIHO exhibitions

Participants will have the opportunity to practice handling techniques and gain confidence before entering the show ring. They will learn proper ring presentation, positioning, and handling techniques, helping both dog and handler feel more confident during the exhibition.

The workshop is free of charge and open to all exhibitors. Whether you are preparing for your first AKIHO exhibition or looking to refine your presentation skills, we warmly encourage you to join us.

We highly recommend this workshop to breeders, exhibitors, and enthusiasts who wish to deepen their understanding of the Akita and its authentic Japanese presentation.

Certificate of Attendance

All seminar participants will receive an official Certificate of Attendance commemorating their participation in the educational programme of the 1st AKIHO United Europe Shibuten..