'Japanese Royalty Guard Dog' Injures Two In Mansfield

Two individuals sustained injuries after an Akita-type dog attacked them in Mansfield last week.

A report from the Nottingham Post suggested that the attack occurred along a residential street near Ladybrook Lane and Linby Avenue on Friday.

The outlet, which echoed a similar report by the Mansfield Chad, added that the canine was seized by specially trained officers from the Nottinghamshire Police’s dog section after they were alerted around 3:30 p.m.

The dog attacked and bit a 19-year-old woman on the arm. She was immediately rushed to Queens Medical Center for treatment.

A man in his thirties was also attacked by the dog after he came to the aid of the woman. The rescuer was also taken to a nearby hospital, although reports said his injuries were “less serious” than those of the first victim.

Inspector Nick Butler thanked the residents for their speedy report about the dog attack. Their actions, he said, prevented the dog from injuring more people.

Likewise, Butler pointed that police officers were quick to respond to the scene and, with the cooperation of residents, detained the dog, identified its owner and ensured that the animal “is no longer a risk to the public.”

Both sources said that a woman, who was believed to be the owner of the Akita-type dog, has been located and at the same time, interviewed by authorities as part of their inquiries.

The dog was detained at a secure kenneling facility, it added.

According to Dog Time, the Akita is a rather large and powerful dog breed originally used to guard Japanese royalty during the feudal ages. In addition, these dogs helped hunters as they track wild boars, black bears and deer.

The website described the dog breed to be “fearless.” It doesn’t easily get frightened and seldom backs down when it faces a challenge or a competition. They are also loyal guardians and tend to be affectionate and sociable when properly trained.

An Akita can be quite aggressive with other dogs and will attack other animals. They treat “prolonged eye contact” as a challenge or threat and they are not recommended as a pet to first-time dog owners.

A male Akita can reach up to 28 inches in height and can weigh up to 130 pounds. Females can stand up to 26 inches and weigh about 110 pounds.