Akino is one of the eight ninken bound by contract to Kakashi Hatake. He can only be summoned in the presence of an active contract with this animal. The summoning itself is performed as follows: blood is applied to the palm, five seals are formed, after which the hand is pressed against a surface. The amount of chakra invested directly affects the size and number of dogs that appear.
As a combat unit, Akino is valued primarily for his sense of smell. He follows a trail unerringly, can speak, and acts in coordination with the other dogs of the pack. He is also able to move underground, following the target's scent using the Earth Technique: Tracking Fang. Upon detecting an enemy, he latches onto him and holds him in place, giving his master time to attack. In battle, the pack uses its agile and powerful limbs, employing various offensive and defensive formations.
Externally, Akino is a dog with sandy-colored fur and a white stripe that runs from the crown of his head down along his muzzle. He wears round sunglasses and the standard equipment of Kakashi's ninken: a blue vest with the symbol of Heno-Heno-Moji and a Konoha headband around his neck.
