The Akita, also known as the American Akita, is a member of the working group of dogs. This breed is most notable for looking a lot like a giant teddy bear with its thick fluffy coat, stocky legs, and characteristic facial features. In the United States and Canada the American Akita and the Japanese Akita (also known as the Akita Inu) are considered to be the same breed, but outside of these countries they are categorized as different breeds. The Akita stands 25-28 inches at the shoulders. Females weigh anywhere from 75-85 lbs and males are 75-120 lbs. The Akita Inu come in five colors: Red, Fawn, Sesame, Brindle, and Pure White. All except white must have whitish hair on the sides of the muzzle, on the cheeks, the neck, chest, body, and tail. In the U.S. and Canada there is only a single Akita breed registered by the major kennel clubs. In every other country in the world they are separated into two breeds: the Akita Inu and the American Akita. All colors are accepted in the American Akita. The pinto color is not accepted as an Akita Inu color. In the United States, some breeders interbreed the original Japanese type with the heavier American type, which is larger, and allows more colors. Some feel that combining the two types leads to improved appearance and genetic health by increasing genetic diversity. Akitas possess a double-coat, with a dense straight undercoat, and a thick outercoat. This coat makes the dog waterproof, as well as being well-equipped for fierce winters. Due to the thickness of their coat, the breed requires daily grooming, and also an awareness of the dog's heavy shedding, especially during warm weather.