Many researchers believe that the ancestors of the first Spitz were brought to Japan from Canada, China, and the United States.

It is believed that Chinas were brought to Japan from China in 732 as a gift to the Japanese Emperor.

The breed was bred on the island of Honshu in the province of Akita, after which it was named. In ancient times, these dogs served to help people in hunting wild boars, bears and deer.