These loyal dogs can make excellent guard dogs for their masters, however because they are so often on guard, it is best to keep them on a lead in parks. Despite their affection for their human family, they are happy to sleep outside in a kennel provided they have lots of toys to keep them occupied. Their coarse coat requires quite a bit of grooming and will need daily brushing. The film ‘Hachi: A Dog’s Story’ starring Richard Gere, is based on the true story of an Akita.