(C) Discussion

   Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   I would like to begin with some discussion regarding standards for the Akita breed. There was a suggestion at the conference this morning by Mr. Hiddes, President of the Nederlandse Vereniging voor Nihonken, regarding the issue of Akita hind legs. I would like to try to reach an accord on this viewpoint. The current expression “hind less well developed, strong and moderately angulated" is an indefinite expression but we can insert in parentheses following it "approximately 145 to 150 degrees”. So that we can hear everyone's opinion in an orderly manner, I would like to ask you to stand in turn.
  
Mr. Kichlro Maki (Paulista Akita Club):
   I want to comment on the eyes. According to the standard, the eyes should be "almost triangular''. How close is ''almost''? In the old Akita Preservation Society's standards, the expression "the corners of the eyes should slant up'' is used. I think this is very important. In Brazil, the eyes are triangular, but there are a lot of dogs with eyes that slant down. This is a mistake. In this point by other dog breeds eyes can be described to slant to the bottoms of the ears. I would like to have this point discussed since there are dogs within this kind of expression.
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   In another Japanese dog, the Shiba, it is interpreted that the eyes slant up, but what do the rest of you think?
  
Prof. Raymond Triquet (FCI Standard Commission):
   You're referring to the expression that the eyes be slanted on a diagonal line, aren't you?
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   If we don't use the same expression as the Shiba, discord will arise.
  
Mr. Hiroshi Kamisato (Japan Kennel Club):
   How about if we include the expression ''slanting up toward the base"?
  
Prof. Raymond Triquet (FCl Standard Commission):
   That could be very dangerous since it could be naturally reversed.
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   Wouldn't it be best to take the same wording a.-. the Shiba that slant up above the horizontal?
  
Prof. Raymond Triquet FCI Standard Commission):
   Accepting the expression eyes slant up on a diagonal line, there will be a large number of mixed cases. To clarify that expression is very difficult. To stress it too strongly invites misunderstanding.
  
   Nevertheless, this is ultimately an issue originating in the country of origin so that whatever we say may be used, but as a member of the Standard Commission, I have to be cautious that if I stress it too much, I could invite a misunderstanding.
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   Instead of the phrase ''slanting upward'', wouldn't the phrase ''corners of the eyes slanting upward'' be more widely applicable? I think we could use the same expression as the Shiba for a while if It is able to solve the problem.
  
Prof. Raymond Triquet (FCl Standard Commission):
   Originally, the eyes were triangular and small. On top of that, the expression "eyes slanting upward" gives the impression as a scientist that the nictitating membrane is visible. Of course, that cannot be allowed. This is where I would urge caution.
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   Well then everyone, do you think it would be best to have common phrasing and use the Shiba expression of slanting upward?
  
Foreign delegates:
   Applause.
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   Then, I would like to hear what everyone thinks. Regarding the various current issues relating to the Akita, I would welcome any questions you might have. To give you some additional background, we have received reports that there is a desire for discussion by the FCI because there is some confusion in having two different sets of standards, the standard for the American Akita and the FCI standard. There is no control over judging in countries where these issues have arisen. I personally think that as far as confusion arising in judging, at least for judges registered with the FCI, the FCI standards should be the basis. However, because there are various standards in the different countries, we must not use standards that differ from FCI standards. However, the United States is not currently acting as a member of the FCI, so that even if American standards are used in judging, I think that can be allowed. At least, if FCI member countries are fully acquainted with the FCI standards, I an confident that confusion would not exist. I have no thoughts of further spread of the Akita bred in America. From this sense, since there are delegate:; from the United States in attendance, in the near future, we would like to continue careful deliberations with each other, based on a relationship of mutual trust, regarding the direction of unifying these types and making the Akita an international breed. Standards that sacrifice breeders are unsatisfactory. From that point of view, I feel we must seek a solution where standards are smoothly unified in a form concerned persons can understand. What do the delegates from the United States think?
  
Dr. Sophia Kaluzniacki (Akita Club of America):
   There are quite a few things I would like to say. Let me thank Mr. Kariyabu for his explanation of Akita standards. I have been told that since these are FC! standards, according to FCI regulations, the country of origin supplies the standards for the dog breed which are then approved. Of course, the country of origin for the Akita according to the FCI is Japan. The standards supplied by Japan are then confirmed as FCI standards. Nevertheless, the United States at the present time is not a member country of the FCI. In America, independent Akita clubs have set standards for the Akita. Based on this situation, the American Akita have become 99% American type. Currently there are 900 persons with voting rights in Akita clubs in America. Standards for the American Akita can be established for the first time or modified through accord of two-thirds or greater majority of Akita clubs.
  
   The impression left by what I believe Mr. Kariyabu said a few minutes ago is that we have the choice of establishing two different dog breeds, or confirming them as two varieties.
  
   As you know, a lot of Akita breed dogs entered the United States from Japan in the 1950's. The American Akita Club created standards based on the standards in use by Japan at that time. Since they originated this way, I believe that the standards in the United States and Japan were very similar at the first. After that, I have been told that Japan took a different direction than the Akita that was in America, In other words, progress was made in Japan toward improvement of the Akita to a more natural type. On the other hand, the Akita dogs that were imported into the United States from Japan in the 1950's were used as a base for breeding. With extraordinary energy, they became very popular, and a large number were registered.
  
   Yesterday we were able to observe the exhibition. Observing the so-called Japanese type Akita, I thought they were wonderful dogs. I was seized with sincere admiration. Nevertheless, in America, the American type Akita is the mainstream. Breeders are very fond of this type of Akita, and are continuing to breed it. Currently, countries outside Japan, in Europe, etc. are moving from the American type to the Japanese type. This trend is taken as strictly an individual issue. The United States has no intention whatever of trying to interfere with this tendency. Furthermore, we have no concern regarding the plans within the FCI to unify the Japanese type. Nevertheless, within America, the American type of dog will most likely continue to be bred, and I do not believe there are any intentions at the present to modify the standards.
  
   I would like to conclude with a short explanation about the current status of registrations and breeding in America. I believe the number of puppies actually bred and born is from 20,000 to 25,000 per year. Of this number half are registered with the AKC. It is a rough estimate, but last year there were about 12,000 dogs registered. This is a general description of the status of registrations and breeding in America.
  
Prof. Raymond Triquet FCI Standard Commission):
   There was an explanation of the FCI standards, but when the written American standards and the written FCI standards are compared, I believe the problems are mainly the differences in color including mask and markings. Other than that there is a slight variation in size. Other than these three points, basically there are not really any great differences. Other than differences in standards, 1 have been impressed that the external appearances of the dogs themselves are very different. On this issue basically there are those even in the United States breeding the Japanese Akita. I would think that these persons are following the Japanese type while others are following the American type.
  
   At the present time, there are more following the American type than the Japanese type. In the future, although there are variations in the two standards with these three points harmonization would be desirable, if such were possible. However, I do not know what form it sight take and I believe this could prove to be very difficult. At the present point in time, the FCI is using Japanese standards, which means that those who like the American type are confronted with a huge problem.
  
   Earlier, various alternatives were mentioned. One was to separate it into an entirely different dog breed. The second was to recognize it as a variety. The third was to give a little Lime for study, while in the meantime considering them distinct breeds. If an American Akita and Japanese Akita breed, this would be considered cross breeding, and offspring would not be pure breed. If recognized as a variety, breeding between varieties would be recognized, and with that meaning both would be invigorated. Actually breeders choose the type they prefer. My impression is that selection is not always a comparatively rational one.
  
   Yesterday, we viewed the Japanese Akita and once again reconfirmed the very great differences. If we are seeking science and beauty in dogs, from the aspect of beauty, I feel the Japanese type is far superior.
  
   On the other hand, the American type is larger in size, the bones are thicker, and it is more powerful. In the explanation a few minutes ago, I feel the influence of other dog breeds is strong.
  
   Each individual has his-or her own opinion, but in comparison to this Akita problem, as the American delegate mentioned earlier, 99% are American type. At the present time. the United States is not encountering any large scale problems.
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   I have just one question. Were the American standards created by referring to the standard of the Akita Preservation Society of twenty four years ago?
  
Mr. Loren Egland: (Akita Club of America):
   As far as I understand, there were three organizations in Japan at the time concerned with the Akita breed, the Akita Preservation Society, the Japanese Dog Preservation Society, and the Akita Association. The American standards were based on the standards if the association belonging to the type of Akita occupying the mainstream with a few modifications.
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   For us here in Japan, we recognize the historical background that fifty years ago the Akita was exported to America. Regarding domestic standards, considerable labor was expended in these fifty years, particularly in the 1940's and 50's. Within that framework, I would like to inquire candidly of the background of the American Akita up to the present-day fixed standards. What breeds were bred to create the current variety''
  
Dr. Sophia Kaluzniacki (Akita Club of America):
   Primarily in the 50's and 60's, the so-called large Akita came to America from Japan. Naturally, some people imported different types of smaller dogs also. At that time, I understand -.hat there were those who cross bred the variety called the Japanese type and the variety called the American type. Nevertheless, since the result was not especially positive, there was no further cross breeding of the American and Japanese types. However, according to the observations of Mr. Egland a few minutes ago, even at the present, there is some cross breeding between the American and Japanese types being practiced, but for the most part the two types are distinguished and bred according to Japanese type or American type.
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   There are some American dog lovers who have cone to Japan and seen the Japanese Akita and owners of Japanese Akitas who understand the breed. However, could you tell me whether other third Parties recognize the Japanese type and whether American breeders know how it differs from the American Akita?
  
Dr. Sophia Kaluzniacki (Akita Club of America):
   As far as 1 know, I believe that they are well aware of the differences. I feel sure that breeders of the American Akita understand them very well.
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   I have associates and friends in the United Suites who say exactly the opposite. It has been brought to my attention that the future of the Japanese Akita is very bleak if Americans do not possess that awareness.
  
Mr. Loren Egland: (Akita Club of America):
   There are those at the present time, including myself, who believe that the American and Japanese Akitas should be crossbred to produce an improved dog. Nevertheless, I do not think success has been achieved. In particular, the FCI has extremely strict limitations on hair color. We are worried about the wide range of color in the American type and limitations on color in the future, but we are hoping that issue can be resolved somehow or other.
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   We have heard discussion on this point from American delegates, but what do delegates from some of the other countries, the European or Latin American sections, think?
  
Mrs. Angelika Kammerscheid-Lammers (German Akita Club):
   I am sure you can remember, but Mr. Kariyabu came to Germany in 1991 and judged a single event show. Afterwards he held several seminars. There were many Akitas of the American type in Germany at the time. Regarding this, since we have secured Japanese help in improving to the Japanese type, we would like a postponement until then. About the year 2000, four years from now, 1 believe improvement of the breed will be completed. At the present time, in Germany we have probably almost finished movement from the American type to the Japanese type. Thus, we will take the standpoint of the country of origin Japan, and based on Japanese breeding, hope o be able to work toward improvement and development of the Akita in Germany.
  
Dr. José Luis Payro FCI Standard Commission):
   In Mexico, there are currently both American type and Japanese type Akitas. A lot of people are saying that major problems will arise in the future. but in fact they have already arisen Problems requiring a solution now exist.
  
   As you know, Mexico geographically borders the United States. Thus with the Akita as well, United States influence is very strong, and over 3,000 are registered annually. Further, in the distributed literature, I believe there is information about how many dogs of the Japanese type have been imported. Annually twenty four dogs of the Japanese type are imported from Japan into the United States, two into Mexico, and one into Peru. There are statistics for other countries, but for the most part we can say that very few are imported into South America from Japan.
  
   Currently in Mexico for domestic dog shows only, we have two separate judgings for Japanese and American types. I receive various letters from Argentina, Brazil, and other countries of Latin America, expressing a desire for an early solution to this problem.
  
   Mr. Fujimoto, who is also a director of the Federacion Canofila Mexicana, has put a lot of effort into spreading the Japanese Akita for those of us in Mexico. The extent of his efforts are greatly appreciated. However, as I mentioned earlier, in Mexico for domestic dog shows only two separate judgings are held. For this reason, on the contrary the number of American type dogs appearing in exhibitions has been increasing. This is one relief measure, end as for myself, I think it is a good method.
  
   Twenty years ago, the so-called American, type was not considered part of the Akita breed. The Japanese type was the Akita. These are now divided into two classes, but considering the facts. I believe that the most logical solution would be to attempt to solve the problem by recognizing then two distinct breeds or different varieties of the same breed.
  
   Naturally, Mexico is a member of the PC!, and intends to follow FCI rules. Nevertheless, since geographically we border on the United States, the fact is that there are a lot of American type dogs. Mexico would like to solve the situation of these two contradictory circumstances. As I mentioned earlier, whether they are handled as distinct breeds or recognized as two varieties of the same breed, we are engulfed by a situation for which some measure must be taken.
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   The number of dogs in the distributed literature gives distribution since beginning reciprocal recognition of breed registrations with the AKC. Let me point out that prior to that a large number of dogs were exported.
  
Mr. Kichiro Maki (Paulista Akita Club):
   Even in Brazil those owning American type dogs, though few in number, are engaged in various activities, but these are very small operations. In Brazil, 95% of the dogs are already Japanese type.
  
Mr. Loren Egland: (Akita Club of America):
   I have received two letters from breeders of American type dogs in Brazil asking for support.
  
Mr. Kichlro Maki (Paulista Akita Club):
   Currently, I know a breeder of American type dogs in Rio de Janeiro In addition, I have heard that there are two or three others in Rio de Janeiro. These are undoubtedly importers of American type dogs, but other than these, there does not seen to be anyone else importing American type dogs. Considering the numbers as well, only two or three American type dogs have been imported in the last twenty years. Moreover, it seems these persons also have Japanese type dogs.
  
Mrs. Monique Bartolozzi (Club Francais des Chiens Nordiques):
   In my country as well, there are fanciers of the separately named American Akita created in the English section. However, the direction of the Akita breed's country of origin Japan must be followed for the Akita. We will use Japanese standards as standards for the Akita.
  
   To add some background information, we have a test in France called the "CONFIFLMATION". This test checks a dog that is one year old or greater whether it conforms to standards of the breed, and has value as a breeding dog. This test has been implemented for ten years, dogs who do not pass this test are disqualified. In other words, no pedigree is issued for dogs not meeting Japanese Akita standards. For this reason, we are making effort!; that breeders understand the direction of Japan the country of origin for the Akita.
  
   However, no one can deny that the first dogs that went to America came from Japan. Thus it is a fact that Japan is the country of origin for those dogs as well. However, this happened over fifty years ago. Since then, the United States selected only the type of dog at the time and have come down to the present day. However, Japan the country of origin has continued attempts to remove features of the Mastiff in dogs of that era, and has succeeded in producing an Akita breed close to a Spitz. In other words, Japan and the United States selected and produced dogs in entirely different directions. Thus, the two are distinguished at present into entirely different breeds. In conclusion, since in France we are implementing the CONFIRMATION, there are no pedigrees for dogs other than the Japanese Akita. Thus, very few American type Akita dogs are produced, and even for those few that are produced, there is no pedigree issued.
  
Dr. José Luis Payra (FC Standard Commission):
   Mr. Maki said that in Brazil 95% of the Akita breed are Japanese type and 5% are American type dogs, but are not some of the so-called Japanese type a mixture of American and Japanese type dogs? Would not this mean we understand this to be more like half and half?
  
Mr. Kichiro Maki (Paulista Akita Club):
   If we compare overall 1, figures for Akita dogs imported, the number of dogs imported from Japan is overwhelmingly larger. Therefore, though certainly not all of the dogs produced will be at the same high level as those we observed in the show yesterday, for example, all of the dogs exhibited in a show are usually Japanese type.
  
Mr. Andrea Bordone (Club Italiano Razze Nordiche):
   In Italy, there are only Japanese type dogs. There are almost no American type dogs. There are a few people who have them, but in Italy the American type and Japanese type dogs are not cross bred. We are making efforts to buy oily from Japan and have only Japanese type dogs.
  
Mr. Björn Novén (Swedish Akita Club):
   If we look at the example of Sweden five years ago, at the time 90% were American type Dogs. Since that time, information about what kind of dog the Japanese Akita was has been received from the FCI. Moreover, there have been modifications in the FCI standards. Since then, Sweden has been instructing breeders to breed their dogs based on the Japanese type of Akita. The type issue is shifting from completely the American type to Japanese type.
   Currently, what has become an issue in Sweden is the problem of the health of the Akita dogs in breeding. We are moving toward how to conquer many of these diseases.
  
Dr. Susanna Kull (Club Suisse des Chiens Nordiques):
   We do not currently have any problems whatsoever in breeding in Switzerland. The dogs are consolidated in the Japanese type. However, we do have a problem in that there are a few people who are importing American type dogs from the United States. Nonetheless, if they are exhibited in shows, they naturally do not receive good evaluations, so are being exhibited less and less. As a result breeding is becoming impossible. We are aware that this point is a major problem.
  
Mr. Masanori Fujimoto (Federacion Canofila Mexicana)
   Currently in Mexico, there are and always have been a lot of fanciers of the Japanese type of Akita. Nevertheless the reason why these do not prosper can be said to be found in persons of the judges' section. There are few judges able to evaluate the Akita correctly in Mexico. No matter how often they are exhibited, they do not win a prize, and one or two withdraw. Therefore, for the Akita in Mexico to succeed, judges must be trained able to correctly judge the dogs. Then when FCI standards are strictly enforced, Japanese type dogs will increase.
  
   I personally as a member of the Federacion Canofila Mexicana. I an a director and a show judge. Thus, I am not criticizing the Federacion Canofila Mexicana. I am here today thanks to Dr. Payro, Mrs. von Thaden, and Mr. Kariyabu, who have been, a tremendous help in the past. Nevertheless, it is necessary to enforce FCI standards, and we have tried to do our utmost in improving the Akita to date, and look forward to further improvement in dog quality.
  
Mrs. Jacoda van de Luijtgaarden (Belgische Vereniging der Akita):
   I would like to tell you a little about the situation in Belgium. Right now it seems the discussion is focused on the issue of exhibiting Akita dogs in shows, but in general, I an very interested in problems of health, especially problems of eye disease and HD (Hip Dysplasia). I expect that all of you have a great deal of interest in these problems. One other issue is the high price of the Japanese Akita. If a dog is intended to be used for breeding, and you go to buy a male and a female the cost is so high you cannot afford them. I would like to have you understand this situation. A few years ago, an American type Akita was exhibited in a show and was chosen as BOB. Since the so-called FCI standards were using the Japanese type, a good deal of confusion arose. This means that if these two are distinguished as two different breeds this type of confusion would cease. Currently a lot of people are keeping American type dogs not as show dogs but as pets.
  
Mr. Joop Hiddes (Nederlandes Vereniging voor Nihonken):
   First of all, let me greet all of you from each country. At this time, a lot of countries from Europe and America have been invited here as the guests of Japan and the JKC. I would like to sincerely thank them for hosting the conference in this way.
   I as sure all of you from each country feel the same way. We in the Netherlands began breeding Akita dogs twelve or thirteen years ago. Naturally, we began with the American type. Then when the World Show was held at Brussels, our awareness in the Netherlands was expanded as to what kind of dog the Japanese Akita was. A number of breeding kennels began to switch from the American type to the Japanese type Akita. Nevertheless, we observed an outstanding show yesterday. I think the Akita dogs in the Netherlands are inferior in quality, but for the most part can still be deemed to be Japanese type.
  
   Generally considered, we in the Netherlands have thoroughly trained our judges. Moreover, qualifying as a breed judge involves passing an extremely strict test. When judges in the Netherlands scrutinize, I received the impression that they accept a somewhat deeper angulation than the angulation of the Akita we observed in the show yesterday.
  
   In the dog shows of the Netherlands KC in our country, we dispatch judges from our club. I would like to mention that there has been some misunderstanding regarding standards. At the show we observed yesterday, we were made aware of the proper angle, so that I an sure this will be reflected in the understanding of judges in the Netherlands. Basically, I believe I can say that the Netherlands, as a member of the FCI, follows FCI standards in judging. At the present time, the president and secretary general of the Netherlands have no intention to put restrictions on breeding. We will leave matters of whether to breed American type or Japanese type up to the breeders, except for example if a dog with hair color not recognized in FC! standards is born, I think the regulation will be that no pedigree will be given. Currently for the Shiba and Akita progress is being made on strictly controlling and checking tests of health, eyes and HD. For example if a puppy is sold to a breeder and subsequently eye or HD problems occur, the case can be taken to court. If convicted, naturally there will be an extremely large fine to pay. Thus, if a dog is sold without being checked and a problem occurs in the future, it will be mainly the breeder who has to bear the cost.
  
   Finally, I would like to make a few comments regarding the problem of American and Japanese types. I basically perceive this problem not as a future problem that can be postponed, but think it would be good to find a solution quickly.
  
Ms. Hege Sundsbarm (Norsk Akita Klubb):
   I am here to report on the situation in Norway for the president of our club. We strictly enforce FCI standards, and the Japanese is the primary type. Nevertheless, as you know, the Norwegian quarantine period is very long, so that there are a lot of Akita dogs that have been brought in from England from where dogs can be imported without quarantine. Another problem is that there is a regulation that puppies cannot be registered unless both parents are inspected for eye and HD problems. This point means a restrictive regulation so that even if a person is resigned to the long quarantine in importing a puppy from Japan, the parents of the puppy in Japan must be somehow flown in and undergo a health check. This is an extremely big problem. I have a question about this point. Is a check for HD problems conducted in Japan?
  
Mr. Hiroshi Kamisato (Japan Kennel Club):
   This has also become a major problem in Japan. We have conducted several studies as what method would be best. As a result, our board of directors has decided to adopt the American Penn HIP method.  After going through a trial stage, it will first be used with designated dog breeds beginning in the spring of next year, and in the future with all breeds.
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   I as afraid the discussion has wandered from our main subject. Now, what I would like to hear from you is what is the breeding situation in each of your countries. That is what kind of regulatory method do you have for American type and Japanese type dogs? Please do not stray from the subject.
  
Mr. Miklós Farkashazi (Hungary):
   I would like to explain the situation in Hungary I can say that the situation is very similar to that in Italy. Almost all the dogs are Japanese type. I think it is safe to say that the Akita dogs exhibited in both international shows and national shows are all Japanese type. Both now and in the future we in Hungary will encourage use of only FCI standards, as standards of the country of origin, Japan.
  
Mr. Roy Spicer (Akita Club of Victoria):
   I am associated with Akita clubs in the three states of West Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales. Frankly, there is not a single dog of the Japanese type of Akita. Moreover, only German Shepherds and Rottweilers are checked for HD. Other breeds are not checked. Further, with regard to the standards issue, currently there are two sets of standards, which means considerable confusion. in the future, I would hope these could be unified into only one standard.
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   We have now heard the opinions of each of the countries here. Finally, I would like to have a word or two from each of the FCI delegates.
  
Prof. Raymond Triquet (FCl Standard Commission):
   It is just my personal opinion. but on the one point is that there are a lot of American type Akita dogs registered in America, and another point is that the two dogs are considerably different. With these points as reference, rather than recognizing them as varieties of the same breed, I feel that it would be better to establish them as two entirely different breeds. Nevertheless, in this case, naming of the breed would be a difficult problem. I believe that if this point is cautiously considered, a solution could be attempted.
  
Dr. Joan-Maurice Paschoud (FCI Standard Commission),
   Furthermore, as President of the FCI Standard Commission, I would like to summarize FCI standards if I could. throughout the discussion today, if we could have slightly changed some of our terminology, I think the issues would be easier to understand, so I would like to make a proposal. I would like to change the wording to “The outside corner of the eye is slightly raised to make nearly a triangular shape". What do you think?
  
Mr. Kichiro Maki (Paulista Akita Club):
   That is exactly what I think. The old Japanese standard used exactly that expression about the eyes.
  
Foreign delegates
   Applause.
  
Dr. Jean-Maurice Paschoud (FCI Standard Commission):
   Moreover, there was a slight correction of a problem in the standards. Earlier the JKC pointed out a problem with the hind legs standard. The proper angle was addressed by inserting in parentheses ''145 to 150 degrees". Then there was the hair color, which was changed to the English terns red to fawn. Regarding the coat, I would like to change the wording to relatively stiff. Instead of the word “harsh”, I would substitute the phrase "relatively stiff”.
  
Mr. Toyosaku  Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   I too greatly appreciate the opinion of Dr. Paschoud, President of the FCI Standard Commission, but we also have a JKC Standard Commission. I would like to have this issue temporarily postponed to give time to have related persons first reach a decision regarding the wording including understanding the term red. Of course, this should not take very such time.
  
Dr. Jean-Maurice Paschoud (FCI Standard Commission):
   Now I would like to express an opinion as a member of the FCI Standard Commission. Regarding the issue of the American Akita and the Japanese Akita, the differences between these two are so great that as a commission member, I have a perception of then as almost two distinct breeds. Of course; the country of origin is Japan, so the following is closely related with the decision of Japan. Supposing that Japan recognized them as two distinct breeds, the American side would naturally have to recognize the Japanese type.
  
   For myself, American type dogs exist in Europe, and considering that a large number of the American type is registered in America, I think it would probably be best for the JKC to recognize the two as distinct breeds. However, if this happens, reciprocally the United States would have to recognize the Japanese type. This is basically what I think.
  
Prof. Wilhelm Brass (FCl Scientific Commission):
   As President of the FCI Scientific Commission, I as extremely concerned with the health problems. In particular, hereditary diseases, HD, hereditary diseases of the eyes, I hope we will be able to have these things checked for the Akita. I would like to see a lot of concern for these health problems whether they are in the American type or Japanese type. Other issues discussed do not fall within my area but within that of the Standard Commission.
  
Mr. Toyosaku  Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   We have been able to hear sincere discussion from delegates of each country. The country of origin, which is the JKC, is not considering recognizing the American type Akita as a variety. it is conceivable that since the American type Akita exists, and the AKC would like to continue this breed, we would have to respect this desire. However, I think that in recognizing this type as a separate breed, we must carefully study attaching the name Akita, as it is variously understood. From these considerations. I feel we must adequately understand the various opinions of breeders who are currently improving the Japanese type. For this purpose, I believe we must have a postponement for a certain period of time. In the case of recognizing another dog breed, I feel we must respond with sufficient caution to the fact that cross breeding would become impossible.
  
   It is reported that a delay of five years is needed to lose the markings of the coat color standard. We must adequately consider these areas, and in the future, there must be further interaction in the relationship between the JKC and the Akita Club of America. I believe we can work toward a smooth solution. What do the delegates from the United States think?
  
Dr. Sophia Kaluzniacki (Akita Club of America):
   As one possibility for the future, there has been talk of separating the two into distinct breeds, but I am not able at this time to comment on this possibility. I must respect the intentions of the Akita Club of America as well as the intentions of the AKC.
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   From the standpoint of the country of origin Japan, we have the responsibility of adopting a policy internationally unifying the Akita breed. We need to have those of the Akita Club of America understand this.
  
Dr. Sophia Kaluzniacki (Akita Club of America):
   This is my personal opinion but, I believe we would like to take the stance that when the JKC decides on a certain intention, the Akita Club of America will study a response.
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   For many years we have taken time regarding this issue. Moreover, we have followed the policy that the standards in the FCI organization should be unified. We have solicited various international opinions on this subject, but we can no longer postpone a solution to this problem. Thus, while recognizing the existence of the American Akita,  I feel it is essential that we understand each other's position on separating the breeds. For this reason, I hope we can pursue these policies within a set time frame.
  
Dr. Sophia Kaluzniacki (Akita Club of America):
   We would welcome future discussions. Once preparations have been completed, I believe we will be ready to participate.
  
Dr. Joan-Maurice Paschoud Ml Standard Commission)
   I concur on all points.
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   Are the delegates from other countries in accord with this viewpoint
  
Mrs. Jacoda van do Luijtgaarden (Belgische Vereniging der Akita):
   In the current FCI standards since a black mask is considered a fault, supposing that in the future the two were separated into distinct breeds, would this be accepted in the separated Akita breed?
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   This is included in the American standards. Countries under the FCI umbrella must always follow FCI standards. Evaluations in dogs shows would be based on FCI standards.
  
Mr. Joop Hiddes (Nederlandes Vereniging voor Nihonken):
   There is not very much specialized literature published on the Akita in Japan. I an sure you have a perspective. I would like to ask the JKC to publish some books about the Akita.
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club)-
   I think we have various official bulletins in that format. Moreover, one point that can be considered would be not to have this conference end with just one time. For the purpose of deepening understanding of the Akita breed and gaining your recognition, forming another organization would be a possible approach.
  
Mr. Joop Hiddes (Nederlandes Vereniging voor Nihonken):
   The Akita Club in neighboring Korea publishes an official bulletin about the Akita breed. I would like to see all related countries sending each other such literature aiming to spread knowledge about the Akita.
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   I think I would like to try to meet with all of you on a regular basis and to expand such work overall.
  
Mr. Masanori Fujimoto Federacion Canofila Mexicana):
   At the present, both American type and Japanese type puppies are being born. What about puppies born during formal separation? Moreover, will the United States affiliate with the FCI in the future? Supposing when the United States participates and there are two types of Akita, what would happen then? I would like to hear a little about these issues.
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   A certain period of time would be allotted. We would not decide immediately to distinguish the breeds. Furthermore, regarding the issue of affiliation with the FCI please realize that organizational issues are not being discussed today.
  
Dr. Sophia Kaluzniacki (Akita Club of America):
   At the current time, if the officially recognized breeds of the AKC and FCI are compared, the FCI has quite a few more official breeds. I think it would be safe to say that the number of breeds is at least double. Naturally, affiliation by the AKC in the FCI, these breeds must be officially recognized, so I think I can say that there is little possibility of the AKC affiliating with the FCI.
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   Regarding this issue, I do not think it is something we need to discuss in this meeting. This in a broad sense involves how the relationship between the AKC and FCI will develop. At the present time, I think it would be good if circumstances were such that the two could work toward an amicable mutually acceptable strategy for finding a solution.
  
Dr. Sophia Kaluzniacki (Akita Club of America):
   I would like to say a word about the problem of establishing new breeds in America. Whether or not the AKC will recognize a new breed is first studied when a certain number of registrations has been reached. Although not directly related to this conference, I will be glad to explain to any interested individuals after this meeting.
  
Mr. Toyosaku Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   Nevertheless, I am afraid there is some direction for misunderstanding. Whether or not it will be recognized as a new breed or take the form of a change in name, the JKC will discuss with the Akita Club of America in a five-year framework and settle the dispute. Is this agreeable?
  
Dr. Sophia Kaluzniacki (Akita Club of America):
   I would say so.
  
Mr. Toyosaku  Kariyabu (Japan Kennel Club):
   For a while now we have been able to hear various candid opinions on today's topics. For myself and others concerned I would like to express our appreciation. Over the last three days, the weather has been changeable, and I understand there have been a few with problems with their physical condition, but I believe this has been a truly significant three days. I know we will be focusing our efforts so that we can gain a deeper global uniform understanding of the Akita in the future. For each of your countries, it is my earnest desire to adequately communicate regarding the future content. I now declare today's Akita Conference adjourned. Thank you very such for your participation today.
  
VI. Closing by Mr. Masao Itoi, JXC Vice-President