Dog Breeds That Look Like Bears

3. The Akita

For more than 1000 years, the Akita has served as both a protector and a loyal companion. When humans relied on bows and arrows to hunt, the Akita was a fearless partner who helped track down and kill large game like bears and boars. Japanese Samurai chose the Akita to guard their homes and the Emperor’s palace in the Middle Ages. The royal family forbade ownership of the Akita outside of their sovereign circles, making it so only the royal family could have Akitas. With their thick and durable coat, broad head, and round face, it’s no wonder people compare them to a bear. Their temperament and behavior are also similar to bears. Akitas are independent, protective of their territory, and may be intolerant of other animals.