14. Akita Inu

If you are familiar with the story of the dog Hachiko who faithfully and patiently waited at a train station for his dead master to return, then you already are familiar with this loyal and very intelligent breed of dogs from Japan. The Akita Inu, is a large dog believed to have originated from the mountains of Northern Japan. They are known to be a proud and independent breed, quite snobbish of strangers but very loyal and loving to members of their adoptive families. They can also be domineering at times and wouldn’t hesitate to make themselves heard when displeased.