Information about the American Akita

The larger, more heavier-boned of the two types of Akita, the American Akita was developed during the middle of the 20th century from fighting dogs brought back from Japan. Although both the American Akita and Japanese Akita Inu derive from common ancestry there are distinctive differences between two. The most obvious difference aside from size and structure would be coloration, the Japanese style Akita is only permitted to be red, fawn, sesame, white, or brindle; whereas the American Akita is acceptable in all colors. Additionally,  the American Akitas may be pinto and/or have a black mask, unlike Japanese style Akitas where that is not permitted by the breed standards and would be considered an instant disqualification in the show ring. As a general rule, the more heartily built American Akita, in overall appearance is more bear-like, the Akita Inu on the other hand, with its more delicate features

You can find the complete story here: American Akitas