I cannot believe the cute little Akita puppy I brought home is all grown up now:-)!! Zen is a huge teddy bear who loves nothing better than a good belly rub. He loves everyone he meets and loves to do pet visitations. When my sister and sister-in-law bring their babies over it is hard to tell who is more excited him or the babies. He watches over them like a hawk and woe to the person who does not come immediately when baby cries, they get a stern Akita lecture (once baby is taken care of). He enjoys playing with the Labradors and even likes the kitties (though don't tell anyone it'll ruin his "rep"). He is doing very well in obedience training (aside from recalls -- we just can't get them faster than a walk). We participated in our first obedience competition on February 20, 1999. Zen took first place in pre-novice out of nine dogs and earned a score of 198 out of 200 points. Zen's favorite place to be is wherever I am, and he'll sleep in as long as I do. I am a VERY fortunate person to have such a wonderful Akita and we hope to have many great years together.
