Yuki is the first dog I have ever been tasked to be responsible for. Aside from the one time I co-parented with my friend Jules with her dog Buster. Another post, another day. Yuki was from a previous life of mine, and well, I carried her with me in my new chapter of life. I am so happy I did because she gives me so much joy and love. My muse and my subject matter for all photography and instagram stories.

She is a Japanese Akita, but I believe she shows few percentages of husky in her. However, her loyalty, smartness, and stubbornness definitely reflects that of an Akita. For those who do not know, there is a huge difference between an American Akita and Japanese Akita. Ever see those dogs with the black mask on their face, that’s typically an American Akita. Also, the fact that the American version can grow over 100 lbs! no thank you. I can barely handle Yuki, who is at her full grown of 55lbs.

Yuki gives me so much love and yet so much anxiety. Oh Yuki, my dear yuki. It could be that I personally someone who just possess natural anxiety in general. I did not get to raise her the way I would have liked to. I would have done it very much differently such as socialize socialize her as a baby. Akitas are so protective that it can cross over to the too protective side of the world. Yuki takes a bit to warm up, but when she does, she loves and cares for you very much.

Today, we celebrate Yuki’s 5th birthday. She still acts like a baby. However, she has moments of motherlyness – as she has shown to her cousin Benji. It’s quite fascinating. She no longer cares for carrots and only gives attention to the good snacks like jerky. She is cozy, loving, and dear. She still has not learned to not jump on you, and well, is a great protector of the house.

She has gradually mastered the smiling in front of the camera. But do not be fooled, I had a snack in my hand. Truly, she has mastered the camera so well that she will intentionally TURN AWAY from the camera.

It seems she shares the same day as #nationalmargaritaday this year! Cheers, and happy Fri-yay!