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== Personality ==
 
== Personality ==
 
Akamaru has been described as active and devoted.<ref>''Naruto'' Databooks</ref> This can be seen from his interactions with people especially his best friend and companion Kiba whom he has always been with since the two met. They often spend their time going on walks, or more accurately, running through trees chasing one another. His devotion is most often seen when Kiba is hurt in battle, Akamaru will immediately run to his side.
Akamaru has been described as active and devoted.<ref>''Naruto'' Databooks</ref>
 
This can be seen from his interactions with people especially his best friend and companion Kiba whom he has always been with since the two met. They often spend their time going on walks, or more accurately, running through trees chasing one another. His devotion is most often seen when Kiba is hurt in battle, Akamaru will immediately run to his side.
 
   
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In ''[[Rai no Sho]]'', a story from Akamaru's point of view realises his personality. Akamaru is revealed to have a humorous thought process by erroneously explaining something, but then immediately correcting himself. He has a very scientific thought process about humans, thinking they enter estrous too late in life when they should be focusing on being shinobi instead of finding a "mate". It's also revealed Akamaru is very overprotective of Kiba as he immediately tried fruitlessly to pull his master away from [[Tamaki]] when he realised the two had a strong mutual attraction to each other, as he didn't want Kiba to shy away from his training in favour of romancing Tamaki like "the others". It is also revealed that Akamaru retains a canine thought process as he calls female humans "bitches", like a female dog. Whether is actually insulting the women (given his angry disposition at the time) or if he always associates women like this is currently unknown.
In the epilogue, Akamaru had grown old and took delight in just napping most of the day and playing with his puppies. When prompted by [[Kiba]] to back him up, he mocked Kiba's notion that he turned down the Seventh Hokage seat, giving a sly smirk.
 
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In the epilogue, Akamaru had grown old and took delight in just napping most of the day and playing with his puppies. When prompted by Kiba to back him up, he mocked Kiba's notion that he turned down the Seventh Hokage seat, giving a sly smirk.
   
 
== Appearance ==
 
== Appearance ==
 
[[File:Aka.png|thumb|left|Akamaru's red fur.]]
 
[[File:Aka.png|thumb|left|Akamaru's red fur.]]
 
[[File:Kiba & Akamaru in Shippuden.png|thumb|Akamaru and Kiba in Part II.]]
 
In Part I Akamaru was a small puppy with white fur, and resembles a [[Wikipedia:Great Pyrenees|Great Pyrenees]], regularly carried on Kiba's head or inside his jacket. Akamaru's eyes are usually squinted, appearing closed, and he has a dark brown nose, as well as dark brown patches on his ears and a dark outline around his mouth. His fur on top of his head is styled to somewhat resemble a [[Wikipedia:Mohawk hairstyle|mohawk]]. Whenever Akamaru ingests [[Military Rations Pill|soldier pills]] his fur turns red and he becomes more feral, which is why he was named Akamaru (赤丸) "Aka" meaning "red", and "maru" being a common ending for male names in Japan.
 
In Part I Akamaru was a small puppy with white fur, and resembles a [[Wikipedia:Great Pyrenees|Great Pyrenees]], regularly carried on Kiba's head or inside his jacket. Akamaru's eyes are usually squinted, appearing closed, and he has a dark brown nose, as well as dark brown patches on his ears and a dark outline around his mouth. His fur on top of his head is styled to somewhat resemble a [[Wikipedia:Mohawk hairstyle|mohawk]]. Whenever Akamaru ingests [[Military Rations Pill|soldier pills]] his fur turns red and he becomes more feral, which is why he was named Akamaru (赤丸) "Aka" meaning "red", and "maru" being a common ending for male names in Japan.
   
In Part II, Akamaru has grown into a full-sized adult large-breed dog. His size is such that Akamaru can now have Kiba ride on his back comfortably. Despite this, Kiba claimed he failed to notice due to the amount of time they spend together. Apart from his size, his general appearance has remained the same.<ref>Chapter 282, pages 14, 16</ref> Years after the Fourth Great Shinobi War, Akamaru aged a bit, with a few wrinkles appearing on his snout.
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In Part II, Akamaru has grown into a full-sized adult large-breed dog. His size is such that Akamaru can now have Kiba ride on his back comfortably. Despite this, Kiba claimed he failed to notice due to the amount of time they spend together. Apart from his size, his general appearance has remained the same.<ref>Chapter 282, pages 14, 16</ref> Years after the Fourth Great Shinobi War, Akamaru aged a bit, with a few wrinkles appearing on his snout, though was otherwise unchanged.
   
 
== Abilities ==
 
== Abilities ==
[[File:Dynamic Marking.png|thumb|Akamaru using Dynamic Marking.]]
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[[File:Dynamic Marking.png|thumb|left|Akamaru using Dynamic Marking.]]
 
Akamaru's heightened senses, such as smell and hearing, along with Kiba's ability to communicate with him, makes him a powerful ally for gathering and sharing information. He can 'sense' chakra with his nose, which allows him to judge an enemy's strength. In combat, Akamaru often takes Kiba's form (albeit having a much more feral appearance) using the [[Beast Human Clone]] technique, or combining with Kiba into a single entity for more devastating attacks. Akamaru also makes use of the [[Dynamic Marking]] technique- urinating on a target with great accuracy, allowing either Kiba or himself to easily track the target by scent. This is especially useful when they are [[Human Beast Combination Transformation: Double-Headed Wolf|fused together]].
 
Akamaru's heightened senses, such as smell and hearing, along with Kiba's ability to communicate with him, makes him a powerful ally for gathering and sharing information. He can 'sense' chakra with his nose, which allows him to judge an enemy's strength. In combat, Akamaru often takes Kiba's form (albeit having a much more feral appearance) using the [[Beast Human Clone]] technique, or combining with Kiba into a single entity for more devastating attacks. Akamaru also makes use of the [[Dynamic Marking]] technique- urinating on a target with great accuracy, allowing either Kiba or himself to easily track the target by scent. This is especially useful when they are [[Human Beast Combination Transformation: Double-Headed Wolf|fused together]].
   
[[File:Man Beast Clone.png|thumb|left|Akamaru transformed into Kiba.]]
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[[File:Man Beast Clone.png|thumb|Akamaru transformed into Kiba.]]
 
He has also been shown to be adept at setting traps such as [[explosive tag]]s on his own.<ref>Chapter 200, page 13</ref> Akamaru is also proficient in using other of his clan's technique such as the [[Passing Fang]] and [[Fang Passing Fang]] where either he alone, or with Kiba spin at ferocious speed and deliver many powerful beast-like attacks when contact is made with the target.
 
He has also been shown to be adept at setting traps such as [[explosive tag]]s on his own.<ref>Chapter 200, page 13</ref> Akamaru is also proficient in using other of his clan's technique such as the [[Passing Fang]] and [[Fang Passing Fang]] where either he alone, or with Kiba spin at ferocious speed and deliver many powerful beast-like attacks when contact is made with the target.
   
 
Akamaru has not been known to talk like some other ninken, but did speak briefly at the end of a special new years episode in the anime.<ref>''Naruto'' episode 116</ref>
 
Akamaru has not been known to talk like some other ninken, but did speak briefly at the end of a special new years episode in the anime.<ref>''Naruto'' episode 116</ref>
{{-L}}
 
   
 
== Part I ==
 
== Part I ==
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Akamaru helped Kiba cheat in the first test, sitting on his head to keep an eye out for proctors and to get information from other exam takers. On their way to the tower during the second test, Kiba had the group stop to investigate [[Gaara]]'s encounter with [[Team Shigure]]. Akamaru was immediately frightened by sensing the strength of Gaara's chakra, and was traumatised by seeing Gaara brutally kill all three Ame genin.
 
Akamaru helped Kiba cheat in the first test, sitting on his head to keep an eye out for proctors and to get information from other exam takers. On their way to the tower during the second test, Kiba had the group stop to investigate [[Gaara]]'s encounter with [[Team Shigure]]. Akamaru was immediately frightened by sensing the strength of Gaara's chakra, and was traumatised by seeing Gaara brutally kill all three Ame genin.
   
[[File:Kiba vs Naruto.png|thumb|Kiba and Akamaru vs Naruto.]]
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[[File:Kiba vs Naruto.png|thumb|left|Kiba and Akamaru vs Naruto.]]
 
Akamaru fought alongside Kiba against [[Naruto Uzumaki]] in the exam preliminaries. He was considered a ninja tool rather than an additional combatant, and was thus permitted to fight alongside Kiba. While Akamaru gave Naruto some difficulty, especially after he transformed into a clone of Kiba, Naruto was able to use Akamaru to trick Kiba, first transforming into Akamaru and coming out of the smoke bomb to ambush him. After Kiba used the [[Beast Human Clone]] technique, Naruto turned into Kiba to prevent Kiba from attacking him, and when Kiba saw through his plan, Naruto transformed into Akamaru to make him think that he had hit Akamaru. Kiba then punched Akamaru, believing him to be Naruto.
 
Akamaru fought alongside Kiba against [[Naruto Uzumaki]] in the exam preliminaries. He was considered a ninja tool rather than an additional combatant, and was thus permitted to fight alongside Kiba. While Akamaru gave Naruto some difficulty, especially after he transformed into a clone of Kiba, Naruto was able to use Akamaru to trick Kiba, first transforming into Akamaru and coming out of the smoke bomb to ambush him. After Kiba used the [[Beast Human Clone]] technique, Naruto turned into Kiba to prevent Kiba from attacking him, and when Kiba saw through his plan, Naruto transformed into Akamaru to make him think that he had hit Akamaru. Kiba then punched Akamaru, believing him to be Naruto.
   
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=== Sasuke Recovery Mission ===
 
=== Sasuke Recovery Mission ===
[[File:Double-Headed Wolf.png|thumb|left|Akamaru and Kiba transform.]]
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[[File:Double-Headed Wolf.png|thumb|Akamaru and Kiba transform.]]
 
Over time, Kiba and Akamaru developed Dynamic Marking and Human Beast Combination Transformation: Double-Headed Wolf together. In the mission to retrieve [[Sasuke]], Kiba and Akamaru remained with the group until they retrieved the container, but an [[explosive tag]] blew them and [[Sakon and Ukon]] into a canyon. Kiba and Akamaru initially struggled against the brothers, and Akamaru realised that they must use Double Wolf Fang. Kiba was hesitant, given the large amount of chakra needed, which would render them vulnerable if they missed. Akamaru bit him on the hand, and Kiba, realising that Akamaru saw him as pathetic, decided to take the risk. The attack severely wounded Sakon and Ukon, but they blocked the last attack with a Rashōmon barrier, and Akamaru was injured protecting Kiba from their counter-attack, but managed to urinate in Sakon's eyes at the same time. When Ukon began taking over Kiba's body, he stabbed himself in the stomach in an attempt to kill Sakon to prevent himself from being taken over and harming Akamaru. Kiba attempted to escape with Akamaru, and, after Sakon and Ukon caught up with them, Kankurō arrived and killed both of them.
 
Over time, Kiba and Akamaru developed Dynamic Marking and Human Beast Combination Transformation: Double-Headed Wolf together. In the mission to retrieve [[Sasuke]], Kiba and Akamaru remained with the group until they retrieved the container, but an [[explosive tag]] blew them and [[Sakon and Ukon]] into a canyon. Kiba and Akamaru initially struggled against the brothers, and Akamaru realised that they must use Double Wolf Fang. Kiba was hesitant, given the large amount of chakra needed, which would render them vulnerable if they missed. Akamaru bit him on the hand, and Kiba, realising that Akamaru saw him as pathetic, decided to take the risk. The attack severely wounded Sakon and Ukon, but they blocked the last attack with a Rashōmon barrier, and Akamaru was injured protecting Kiba from their counter-attack, but managed to urinate in Sakon's eyes at the same time. When Ukon began taking over Kiba's body, he stabbed himself in the stomach in an attempt to kill Sakon to prevent himself from being taken over and harming Akamaru. Kiba attempted to escape with Akamaru, and, after Sakon and Ukon caught up with them, Kankurō arrived and killed both of them.
   
 
Kiba and Akamaru's injuries took some time to heal. Kiba, not wanting Akamaru to suffer that much again, vowed to improve himself.
 
Kiba and Akamaru's injuries took some time to heal. Kiba, not wanting Akamaru to suffer that much again, vowed to improve himself.
   
=== Search for the Bikōchū Arc ===
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=== Bikōchū Search Mission ===
 
In the anime, Akamaru accompanied his partner with the rest of Team Kurenai and Naruto to find the [[Bikōchū]]. The mission ultimately failed.
 
In the anime, Akamaru accompanied his partner with the rest of Team Kurenai and Naruto to find the [[Bikōchū]]. The mission ultimately failed.
   
=== Impostor Arc ===
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=== Buried Gold Excavation Mission ===
 
In the anime, his presence was used as Kiba's proof of being the real Kiba, as, while his impostor could imitate his face, he could not replace Akamaru.
 
In the anime, his presence was used as Kiba's proof of being the real Kiba, as, while his impostor could imitate his face, he could not replace Akamaru.
   
=== Kiba's Long Day ===
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=== Akamaru Monitoring Mission ===
[[File:Kiba's Long Day.JPG|thumb|Akamaru infected with a toxin.]]
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[[File:Kiba's Long Day.png|thumb|left|Akamaru infected with a toxin.]]
In the anime, in [[Kiba's Long Day|''Naruto'' episode 184]], Akamaru was infected with a toxin that caused him to go berserk. When he attacked some Anbu members who were training, the order was given to have him taken into custody. As Hana attempted to make a cure for Akamaru, Kiba smuggled his dog out of the village and escaped, having heard that Akamaru might need to be put to sleep, but Akamaru continued to lose control of himself. By the time Naruto and Hana caught up with Kiba, Akamaru had turned into a giant version of himself, and attacked anyone near him. Kiba hesitated in the face of the possibility that Akamaru might die, but, after Naruto and Hana's attempt to pin Akamaru down and administer the antidote failed, Kiba apologised to Akamaru while standing still as Akamaru leapt at him. Kiba was severely injured, but managed to inject Akamaru with the antidote, and noted that Akamaru had tried his best to avoid killing him.
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In the anime, Akamaru was infected with a toxin that caused him to go berserk. When he attacked some Anbu members who were training, the order was given to have him taken into custody. As Hana attempted to make a cure for Akamaru, Kiba smuggled his dog out of the village and escaped, having heard that Akamaru might need to be put to sleep, but Akamaru continued to lose control of himself. By the time Naruto and Hana caught up with Kiba, Akamaru had turned into a giant version of himself, and attacked anyone near him. Kiba hesitated in the face of the possibility that Akamaru might die, but, after Naruto and Hana's attempt to pin Akamaru down and administer the antidote failed, Kiba apologised to Akamaru while standing still as Akamaru leapt at him. Kiba was severely injured, but managed to inject Akamaru with the antidote, and noted that Akamaru had tried his best to avoid killing him.
   
=== Time-Skip ===
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== Interlude ==
==== In Naruto's Footsteps: The Friends' Paths ====
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=== In Naruto's Footsteps: The Friends' Paths ===
In the anime, about two years after Naruto left the village to train with [[Jiraiya]], Konoha decided to host the Chūnin Exams early alongside [[Sunagakure]]. Akamaru joined Kiba as usual to enter the exams.<ref>''Naruto: Shippūden'' episode 396</ref> After Kiba passed the first exam, Akamaru joined his partner to Sunagakure where the second exam would be held. There, the second exam's nature was essentially the same as the one Konoha previously had, requiring everyone to obtain two matching scrolls before three days passed in a survival competition.<ref>''Naruto: Shippūden'' episode 398</ref>
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In the anime, after Naruto left the village for three years to train with [[Jiraiya]] of the [[Sannin]], Kiba's jealousy in Naruto's continued luck of recent made him determined to best his fellow Konoha-nin. To this end, Akamaru joined Kiba in a new training to increase the power of their [[Combination Transformation]] skills. Taking inspiration from Naruto's usage of shadow clones for support in battle, Akamaru and Kiba worked arduously to developed their [[Human Beast Mixture Transformation Three-Headed Wolf|Three-Headed Wolf Technique.]]<ref>''Naruto: Shippūden'' episode 403</ref> Two years after Naruto's departure, Konohagakure decided to host the Chūnin Exams early alongside [[Sunagakure]]. Akamaru joined Kiba as usual to enter the exams.<ref>''Naruto: Shippūden'' episode 396</ref>
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After Kiba passed the first exam, Akamaru joined his partner to Sunagakure where the second exam would be held. There, the second exam's nature was essentially the same as the one Konoha previously had, requiring everyone to obtain two matching scrolls before three days passed in a survival competition.<ref>''Naruto: Shippūden'' episode 398</ref> Later, when the team engaged an [[Team Kazami|enemy team of of Kusagakure-nin]], Akamaru joined Kiba against [[Burami]], whose obese stature was used to his advantage, absorbing and repelling all of Kiba and Akamaru's attacks. Soon, the enemy realised Kiba had the Earth scroll and together were able to steal it from him before retreating. As Team Kurenai attempted to stop them, Burami blasted them with a [[Smell Sphere|foul-smelling smokescreen]], impairing Kiba and Akamaru's sense of smell. While the enemy got out of Hinata's Byakugan range, Shino set one of his female insects on the enemy to track. While pursuing the enemy, Akamaru and his teammates fell into a quicksand pit. Akamaru, however, was able to use his [[Dynamic Marking]] to solidify the sand enough for the team to escape. Once recovering, Team Kurenai resumed their pursuit of the enemy.<ref>''Naruto: Shippūden'' episode 402</ref>
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As Kiba and Akamaru continued following the scent, they soon found it [[Odour-Concealing Bubbles|multiplied and scattered throughout the area]]. When Shino's bugs failed to find the enemies as well and suggested going after other enemy scrolls, Kiba, finding to his annoyance thinking about Naruto again, became determined not to fail. Then realising that Burami's scent was his clothes from their earlier scuffle, Kiba and Akamaru used it to find the real enemy. While back on the trail again, the enemies ambushed Team Kurenai. While initially overwhelmed, the team swapped out of the predicament with Shino's [[Insect Clone Technique|insect clones]], allowing them to regroup. Seeing through the enemies' tactics, Team Kurenai quickly pressured the Kusa-nin before Kiba and Akamaru finished them off with his [[Human Beast Mixture Transformation — Three-Headed Wolf|Three-Headed Wolf technique]], earning Team Kurenai a Heaven and Earth scroll.<ref>''Naruto: Shippūden'' episode 403</ref> Later, Team Kurenai was caught in a massive sandstorm.<ref>''Naruto: Shippūden'' episode 410</ref> Ultimately, the team was rescued by the Suna-nin proctors and brought to a building to wait out the storm before resuming the exams.<ref>''Naruto: Shippūden'' episode 411</ref>
   
 
== Part II ==
 
== Part II ==
 
=== Tenchi Bridge Reconnaissance Mission ===
 
=== Tenchi Bridge Reconnaissance Mission ===
[[File:Kiba & Akamaru in Shippuden.png|thumb|left|Akamaru and Kiba in Part II.]]
 
 
When Naruto met Kiba while looking for team-mates, he noticed that Akamaru was much larger, especially given that Kiba was now riding on him rather than having him sit on his head. Naruto asked Kiba to join his team for a mission, and even proposed having Akamaru go with him without Kiba, but Kiba refused the suggestion.
 
When Naruto met Kiba while looking for team-mates, he noticed that Akamaru was much larger, especially given that Kiba was now riding on him rather than having him sit on his head. Naruto asked Kiba to join his team for a mission, and even proposed having Akamaru go with him without Kiba, but Kiba refused the suggestion.
{{-L}}
 
   
 
=== Twelve Guardian Ninja ===
 
=== Twelve Guardian Ninja ===
 
{{Main|Twelve Guardian Ninja (Arc)}}
 
{{Main|Twelve Guardian Ninja (Arc)}}
When Team Yamato returned from the [[Fire Temple]] with a young monk named [[Sora]], Sora quickly made it known that he didn't care what any living thing thought of him, and quickly got into a staring contest with Akamaru, to which Kiba became annoyed at. When [[Furido]] and [[Furido's 4-Man Team|his men]] attacked the Leaf Village, Akamaru demonstrated that his new size also helped considerably in battle, as he was able to take down several zombies without transforming.
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In the anime, when Team Kakashi returned from the [[Fire Temple]] with a young monk named [[Sora]], Sora quickly made it known that he didn't care what any living thing thought of him, and quickly got into a staring contest with Akamaru, to which Kiba became annoyed at. Later, when [[Furido]] and [[Furido's 4-Man Team|his men]] attacked the Leaf Village, Akamaru demonstrated that his new size also helped considerably in battle, as he was able to take down several zombies without transforming.
   
 
=== Three-Tails' Appearance ===
 
=== Three-Tails' Appearance ===
When Kakashi was ordered to investigate the latest whereabouts of [[Orochimaru]], Team Kurenai was assigned to work with him due to their tracking skills. When they managed to find Orochimaru's hideout, they triggered a trap that destroyed the base. Fortunately, Akamaru's nose was able to find a way out in time. Later, Akamaru began to have trouble concentrating due to a high-frequency sound. It was through this that the team realised that they were being spied on by bats. When the enemy ambushed them and rendered their sense of smell helpless with a smokescreen, Akamaru convinced Kiba to try their beast-like taijutsu to blow away the smoke.
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In the anime, when Kakashi was ordered to investigate the latest whereabouts of [[Orochimaru]], Team Kurenai was assigned to work with him due to their tracking skills. When they managed to find Orochimaru's hideout, they triggered a trap that destroyed the base. Fortunately, Akamaru's nose was able to find a way out in time. Later, Akamaru began to have trouble concentrating due to a high-frequency sound. It was through this that the team realised that they were being spied on by bats. When the enemy ambushed them and rendered their sense of smell helpless with a smokescreen, Akamaru convinced Kiba to try their beast-like taijutsu to blow away the smoke.
   
 
Soon, the team found themselves being attacked by [[Guren]]. There, Kiba and Akamaru again worked together to fight off her attacks. After sensing their enemy's new overwhelming might, Akamaru saved Kiba by digging into the ground and hiding them in a pit.
 
Soon, the team found themselves being attacked by [[Guren]]. There, Kiba and Akamaru again worked together to fight off her attacks. After sensing their enemy's new overwhelming might, Akamaru saved Kiba by digging into the ground and hiding them in a pit.
   
 
=== Itachi Pursuit Mission ===
 
=== Itachi Pursuit Mission ===
[[File:Eight Man Squad.png|thumb|right|Team 7 and 8 set out to pursue Itachi.]]
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[[File:Eight Man Squad.png|thumb|Team 7 and 8 set out to pursue Itachi.]]
 
After it was decided that the best way to find Sasuke was to find [[Itachi Uchiha]], Akamaru and Kiba later assisted Naruto in searching for either of the Uchiha brothers.
 
After it was decided that the best way to find Sasuke was to find [[Itachi Uchiha]], Akamaru and Kiba later assisted Naruto in searching for either of the Uchiha brothers.
   
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=== Past Arc: The Locus of Konoha ===
 
=== Past Arc: The Locus of Konoha ===
 
{{Main|Past Arc: The Locus of Konoha}}
 
{{Main|Past Arc: The Locus of Konoha}}
After Kiba had signed up to be the village’s messenger, he and Akamaru are seen delivering packages and messages to the villagers.
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In the anime, after Kiba had signed up to be the village’s messenger, Akamaru accompanied his partner in delivering packages and messages to the villagers.
   
 
=== Five Kage Summit ===
 
=== Five Kage Summit ===
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=== Paradise Life on a Boat ===
 
=== Paradise Life on a Boat ===
 
{{Main|Paradise Life on a Boat}}
 
{{Main|Paradise Life on a Boat}}
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=== Fourth Shinobi World War: Confrontation ===
 
=== Fourth Shinobi World War: Confrontation ===
 
[[File:Inuzuka Kiba and Akamaru at the war.png|thumb|Kiba and Akamaru during the Fourth Shinobi World War.]]
 
[[File:Inuzuka Kiba and Akamaru at the war.png|thumb|Kiba and Akamaru during the Fourth Shinobi World War.]]
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[[File:Kiba and Akamaru transform.png|thumb|left|Kiba and Akamaru confront the reincarnated Sakon and Ukon.]]
 
[[File:Kiba and Akamaru transform.png|thumb|left|Kiba and Akamaru confront the reincarnated Sakon and Ukon.]]
The next day, Akamaru alongside Kiba battled the [[Substitute Technique|transformed]] White Zetsu Army clones that had infiltrated their ranks. In the anime, the battle turns more personal when the [[Sound Four]] ninja are also summoned to the battlefield. Kiba and Akamaru face off again against [[Sakon and Ukon]]. With there improved skills, Kiba and Akamaru are able to completely [[Super Fang Wolf Fang|plough]] through Sakon and Ukon defences and defeat them. However, their victory is short-lived, as the ninja twins engulf the four of them in a [[Space–Time Technique Formula: Underworld Turnover|strange technique]]. Akamaru's body was left in a comatose state while his soul was sent to a new location where it was reanimate within a large barrier. Inside, the inhabitants are able to battle normal. However, the Sound Four inform their enemies that in time, their actual bodies' halted chakra flow will eventually cause them to die. In addition, killing the Sound Four will not undo the technique. Despite the initial stalemate, the Sound Four's enhanced Cursed Seals grow even stronger from their accumulated malice, quickly overwhelming the Konoha ninja. Seeing that, Shikamaru begins to intentionally provoke them, knowing that Naruto's new [[Negative Emotions Sensing|senses]] would pick up on it. Eventually, Naruto finds them and breaks through the barrier, allowing Inoichi, through a telepathic connection, to release the technique and restore Akamaru and the others to their bodies. Upon awakening, Akamaru thanks Shino for his efforts in save them.
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The next day, Akamaru alongside Kiba battled the [[Substitute Technique|transformed]] White Zetsu Army clones that had infiltrated their ranks. In the anime, the battle turns more personal when the [[Sound Four]] ninja are also summoned to the battlefield. Kiba and Akamaru face off again against [[Sakon and Ukon]]. With there improved skills, Kiba and Akamaru are able to completely [[Super Fang Wolf Fang|plough]] through Sakon and Ukon defences and defeat them. However, their victory is short-lived, as the ninja twins engulf the four of them in a [[Space–Time Technique Formula: Underworld Turnover|strange technique]]. Akamaru's body was left in a comatose state while his soul was sent to a new location where it was reanimated within a large barrier. Inside, the inhabitants are able to battle normal. However, the Sound Four inform their enemies that in time, their actual bodies' halted chakra flow will eventually cause them to die. In addition, killing the Sound Four will not undo the technique. Despite the initial stalemate, the Sound Four's enhanced Cursed Seals grow even stronger from their accumulated malice, quickly overwhelming the Konoha ninja. Seeing that, Shikamaru begins to intentionally provoke them, knowing that Naruto's new [[Negative Emotions Sensing|senses]] would pick up on it. Eventually, Naruto finds them and breaks through the barrier, allowing Inoichi, through a telepathic connection, to release the technique and restore Akamaru and the others to their bodies. Upon awakening, Akamaru thanks Shino for his efforts in save them.
   
 
Later, amidst the battles, Kiba warned [[Neji]] that [[Hinata]] was in trouble. Neji failed to save "Hinata" from an Iwa-nin, only for "Hinata" to be revealed as a White Zetsu Army clone. As Akamaru and Kiba continued toward the real Hinata, Kiba chastised Neji for going the wrong way, but before they could reach Hinata, she was saved by [[Naruto]]'s [[shadow clone]] which had arrived on the battlefield. After a brief argument between Kiba, Naruto and Neji, they mobilised with Naruto to sift out the fake shinobi from the real ones.
 
Later, amidst the battles, Kiba warned [[Neji]] that [[Hinata]] was in trouble. Neji failed to save "Hinata" from an Iwa-nin, only for "Hinata" to be revealed as a White Zetsu Army clone. As Akamaru and Kiba continued toward the real Hinata, Kiba chastised Neji for going the wrong way, but before they could reach Hinata, she was saved by [[Naruto]]'s [[shadow clone]] which had arrived on the battlefield. After a brief argument between Kiba, Naruto and Neji, they mobilised with Naruto to sift out the fake shinobi from the real ones.
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Later when [[Kurama]] had generated enough chakra, Naruto transferred some of it to Akamaru who afterwards, alongside Kiba, charged towards the Uchiha and the Ten-Tails where their combined efforts were able to separate the two Uchiha from the beast. When the Alliance was saved from the Ten-Tails' enormous [[Tailed Beast Ball]], Akamaru's behaviour alerted them to the fact that [[Minato]] was a reincarnated shinobi. Though Minato waved down their suspicion telling them that he was on their side, Akamaru was later shocked to see [[Sasuke]] on the battlefield and even more so when he declared that he would become Hokage. When Kiba later made a comment to Shikamaru's resolve to become an adviser to the Hokage, Akamaru voiced some concern. Shino, however, told Akamaru it was all right as the Hokage could have up to three advisers.
 
Later when [[Kurama]] had generated enough chakra, Naruto transferred some of it to Akamaru who afterwards, alongside Kiba, charged towards the Uchiha and the Ten-Tails where their combined efforts were able to separate the two Uchiha from the beast. When the Alliance was saved from the Ten-Tails' enormous [[Tailed Beast Ball]], Akamaru's behaviour alerted them to the fact that [[Minato]] was a reincarnated shinobi. Though Minato waved down their suspicion telling them that he was on their side, Akamaru was later shocked to see [[Sasuke]] on the battlefield and even more so when he declared that he would become Hokage. When Kiba later made a comment to Shikamaru's resolve to become an adviser to the Hokage, Akamaru voiced some concern. Shino, however, told Akamaru it was all right as the Hokage could have up to three advisers.
   
After Madara was [[Outer Path: Samsara of Heavenly Life Technique|revived]], Akamaru and Kiba assisted the Alliance in battling [[Guruguru]].
+
After Madara was [[Outer Path: Samsara of Heavenly Life Technique|revived]], Akamaru and Kiba assisted the Alliance in battling [[Tobi (Zetsu)|Tobi]].
   
 
=== Birth of the Ten-Tails' Jinchūriki ===
 
=== Birth of the Ten-Tails' Jinchūriki ===
Line 124: Line 128:
 
=== Kaguya Ōtsutsuki Strikes ===
 
=== Kaguya Ōtsutsuki Strikes ===
 
Ultimately, Akamaru and the rest of the world were free from the genjutsu by Sasuke and Naruto after they ended the war.
 
Ultimately, Akamaru and the rest of the world were free from the genjutsu by Sasuke and Naruto after they ended the war.
  +
  +
==Blank Period==
  +
=== Rai no Sho ===
  +
During a walk with Kiba, Akamaru began to notice all Kiba's friends started finding girlfriends and started settling down, which he found annoying. He felt that humans entered estrous too late and that Kiba was the only real shinobi among his friends for not falling for such desires, believing he would become the Seventh [[Hokage]]. However, after hearing from many young women that they were certain Naruto was going to be the Seventh, he began to worry about Kiba.
  +
  +
Later, when Kiba went off on his own, Akamaru became worried since he realised Kiba was being deceitful and followed him. Seeing Kiba was secretly meeting a girl, Akamaru became annoyed and even admitted that Kiba probably didn't have the skills to become Hokage if he focused so much on girls. However, he changes his mind when he realises Kiba was meeting a young vet to give him his immunisations by surprise.
  +
  +
In the end though, Akamaru became overly protective when he noticed Kiba had a strong mutual attraction with [[Tamaki]] and tried to "protect" Kiba by fruitlessly pulling him away from her.
  +
  +
=== Konoha Hiden: The Perfect Day for a Wedding ===
  +
{{Main|Konoha Hiden: The Perfect Day for a Wedding}}
  +
When Shino and Kiba gathered together with their sensei [[Kurenai]], to discuss [[Hinata]]'s wedding gift, his ears were pulled by Kurenai's daughter, [[Mirai]].
   
 
== Epilogue ==
 
== Epilogue ==
 
Years later, having grown old, Akamaru became very docile and laid about with his new pups. He would mock Kiba's insistence he had turned down the Seventh Hokage seat, however, smirking playfully at his master.
 
Years later, having grown old, Akamaru became very docile and laid about with his new pups. He would mock Kiba's insistence he had turned down the Seventh Hokage seat, however, smirking playfully at his master.
   
== Video Games ==
+
== In Other Media ==
  +
=== Video Games ===
 
{{playable in}}
 
{{playable in}}
   
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== Trivia ==
 
== Trivia ==
 
* The 'Aka' in Akamaru's name means the colour 'red', and 'maru' meaning 'perfection' or 'full circle' is a common suffix for Japanese male names. The reason for his name was explained by Kiba when Akamaru's fur turned red after eating a [[Military Rations Pill]].
 
* The 'Aka' in Akamaru's name means the colour 'red', and 'maru' meaning 'perfection' or 'full circle' is a common suffix for Japanese male names. The reason for his name was explained by Kiba when Akamaru's fur turned red after eating a [[Military Rations Pill]].
* In an omake segment that aired in Japan for New Year's, Kiba attempted to get Akamaru to talk, with little success. There are no indications that Akamaru even has the potential to speak, other than the fact that other ninken can.
 
* Interestingly, ''Naruto'' was first published in a segment of ''Weekly Shonen Jump'' known as "Akamaru Jump".
 
* Akamaru and Naruto have the same seiyū, Junko Takeuchi. However, they have separate English voice actors.
 
* During an interview, Kishimoto was asked which character he would like to see get a spin-off. Possibly as a joke, Kishimoto simply replied "Akamaru".
 
* Akamaru and Kiba share the same birthday.
 
 
* According to the databook(s):
 
* According to the databook(s):
 
** Akamaru wishes to fight [[Kuromaru]].
 
** Akamaru wishes to fight [[Kuromaru]].
 
** Akamaru's favourite food is the special dog food Kiba makes.
 
** Akamaru's favourite food is the special dog food Kiba makes.
  +
* Akamaru shares the same birthday with Kiba, which is also the day when [[Wikipedia:Tanabata|Tanabata]] starts in Japan.
 
* In an omake segment that aired in Japan for New Year's, Kiba attempted to get Akamaru to talk, with little success. There are no indications that Akamaru even has the potential to speak, other than the fact that other ninken can.
 
* Interestingly, ''Naruto'' was first published in a segment of ''Weekly Shonen Jump'' known as "Akamaru Jump".
 
* Akamaru in Part I and Naruto have the same seiyū, Junko Takeuchi. However, they have separate English voice actors.
 
* During an interview, Kishimoto was asked which character he would like to see get a spin-off. Possibly as a joke, Kishimoto simply replied "Akamaru".
   
 
== References ==
 
== References ==

Revision as of 16:51, 20 July 2015

editAkamaru Camera font awesome Browse Information[1][2][3][4]
赤丸 Akamaru
Debut
Manga Naruto Chapter #39
Anime Naruto Episode #23
Novel Kakashi Hiden: Lightning in the Icy Sky
Movie Naruto Shippūden the Movie: The Will of Fire
Game Naruto: Konoha Ninpōchō
OVA Hidden Leaf Village Grand Sports Festival!
Appears in Anime, Manga, Novel, Game, Movie
Voice Actors
Japanese
English
Personal
Birthdate Astrological Sign Cancer July 7 Search_Icon.svg
Sex Gender Male Male
Species Ninken
Age
  • Part I: 3–4
  • Part II: 7–8
Height
  • Part I: 28 cm0.28 m <br />0.919 ft <br />11.024 in <br />29.1 cm0.291 m <br />0.955 ft <br />11.457 in <br />
  • Part II: 127.2 cm1.272 m <br />4.173 ft <br />50.079 in <br />
Weight
  • Part I: 5.1 kg11.244 lb <br />5.3 kg11.684 lb <br />
  • Part II: 80.5 kg177.472 lb <br />
Affiliation
Team
Partner
Clan
Jutsu

Tools

Akamaru (赤丸) is a nin-dog (忍犬, ninken) from Konohagakure's Inuzuka clan. He is Kiba Inuzuka's partner, as well as his best friend and companion. He is also a member of Team Kurenai.

Background

At some point, while Kiba was still in the Academy, his mother, Tsume Inuzuka, entrusted him with Akamaru. Although Akamaru almost immediately urinated on Kiba's face, much to his mother and sister's amusement,[5] the two became close regardless.

Personality

Akamaru has been described as active and devoted.[6] This can be seen from his interactions with people especially his best friend and companion Kiba whom he has always been with since the two met. They often spend their time going on walks, or more accurately, running through trees chasing one another. His devotion is most often seen when Kiba is hurt in battle, Akamaru will immediately run to his side.

In Rai no Sho, a story from Akamaru's point of view realises his personality. Akamaru is revealed to have a humorous thought process by erroneously explaining something, but then immediately correcting himself. He has a very scientific thought process about humans, thinking they enter estrous too late in life when they should be focusing on being shinobi instead of finding a "mate". It's also revealed Akamaru is very overprotective of Kiba as he immediately tried fruitlessly to pull his master away from Tamaki when he realised the two had a strong mutual attraction to each other, as he didn't want Kiba to shy away from his training in favour of romancing Tamaki like "the others". It is also revealed that Akamaru retains a canine thought process as he calls female humans "bitches", like a female dog. Whether is actually insulting the women (given his angry disposition at the time) or if he always associates women like this is currently unknown.

In the epilogue, Akamaru had grown old and took delight in just napping most of the day and playing with his puppies. When prompted by Kiba to back him up, he mocked Kiba's notion that he turned down the Seventh Hokage seat, giving a sly smirk.

Appearance

Aka

Akamaru's red fur.

Kiba & Akamaru in Shippuden

Akamaru and Kiba in Part II.

In Part I Akamaru was a small puppy with white fur, and resembles a Great Pyrenees, regularly carried on Kiba's head or inside his jacket. Akamaru's eyes are usually squinted, appearing closed, and he has a dark brown nose, as well as dark brown patches on his ears and a dark outline around his mouth. His fur on top of his head is styled to somewhat resemble a mohawk. Whenever Akamaru ingests soldier pills his fur turns red and he becomes more feral, which is why he was named Akamaru (赤丸) "Aka" meaning "red", and "maru" being a common ending for male names in Japan.

In Part II, Akamaru has grown into a full-sized adult large-breed dog. His size is such that Akamaru can now have Kiba ride on his back comfortably. Despite this, Kiba claimed he failed to notice due to the amount of time they spend together. Apart from his size, his general appearance has remained the same.[7] Years after the Fourth Great Shinobi War, Akamaru aged a bit, with a few wrinkles appearing on his snout, though was otherwise unchanged.

Abilities

Dynamic Marking

Akamaru using Dynamic Marking.

Akamaru's heightened senses, such as smell and hearing, along with Kiba's ability to communicate with him, makes him a powerful ally for gathering and sharing information. He can 'sense' chakra with his nose, which allows him to judge an enemy's strength. In combat, Akamaru often takes Kiba's form (albeit having a much more feral appearance) using the Beast Human Clone technique, or combining with Kiba into a single entity for more devastating attacks. Akamaru also makes use of the Dynamic Marking technique- urinating on a target with great accuracy, allowing either Kiba or himself to easily track the target by scent. This is especially useful when they are fused together.

Man Beast Clone

Akamaru transformed into Kiba.

He has also been shown to be adept at setting traps such as explosive tags on his own.[8] Akamaru is also proficient in using other of his clan's technique such as the Passing Fang and Fang Passing Fang where either he alone, or with Kiba spin at ferocious speed and deliver many powerful beast-like attacks when contact is made with the target.

Akamaru has not been known to talk like some other ninken, but did speak briefly at the end of a special new years episode in the anime.[9]

Part I

Chūnin Exams

Akamaru helped Kiba cheat in the first test, sitting on his head to keep an eye out for proctors and to get information from other exam takers. On their way to the tower during the second test, Kiba had the group stop to investigate Gaara's encounter with Team Shigure. Akamaru was immediately frightened by sensing the strength of Gaara's chakra, and was traumatised by seeing Gaara brutally kill all three Ame genin.

Kiba vs Naruto

Kiba and Akamaru vs Naruto.

Akamaru fought alongside Kiba against Naruto Uzumaki in the exam preliminaries. He was considered a ninja tool rather than an additional combatant, and was thus permitted to fight alongside Kiba. While Akamaru gave Naruto some difficulty, especially after he transformed into a clone of Kiba, Naruto was able to use Akamaru to trick Kiba, first transforming into Akamaru and coming out of the smoke bomb to ambush him. After Kiba used the Beast Human Clone technique, Naruto turned into Kiba to prevent Kiba from attacking him, and when Kiba saw through his plan, Naruto transformed into Akamaru to make him think that he had hit Akamaru. Kiba then punched Akamaru, believing him to be Naruto.

In the finals, Akamaru was knocked out along with Kiba after Kabuto Yakushi, disguised as an Anbu member, healed Hinata Hyūga. In the anime, Akamaru attempted to warn Kiba about Kabuto, having recognised who Kabuto was. However, Kabuto used his medical ninjutsu and knocked Kiba out. What happened to Akamaru was left unknown, as Kabuto didn't come near him but he still passed out.

Konoha Crush

Akamaru can be seen with Kiba and the other villagers at the Third Hokage's funeral.

Sasuke Recovery Mission

Double-Headed Wolf

Akamaru and Kiba transform.

Over time, Kiba and Akamaru developed Dynamic Marking and Human Beast Combination Transformation: Double-Headed Wolf together. In the mission to retrieve Sasuke, Kiba and Akamaru remained with the group until they retrieved the container, but an explosive tag blew them and Sakon and Ukon into a canyon. Kiba and Akamaru initially struggled against the brothers, and Akamaru realised that they must use Double Wolf Fang. Kiba was hesitant, given the large amount of chakra needed, which would render them vulnerable if they missed. Akamaru bit him on the hand, and Kiba, realising that Akamaru saw him as pathetic, decided to take the risk. The attack severely wounded Sakon and Ukon, but they blocked the last attack with a Rashōmon barrier, and Akamaru was injured protecting Kiba from their counter-attack, but managed to urinate in Sakon's eyes at the same time. When Ukon began taking over Kiba's body, he stabbed himself in the stomach in an attempt to kill Sakon to prevent himself from being taken over and harming Akamaru. Kiba attempted to escape with Akamaru, and, after Sakon and Ukon caught up with them, Kankurō arrived and killed both of them.

Kiba and Akamaru's injuries took some time to heal. Kiba, not wanting Akamaru to suffer that much again, vowed to improve himself.

Bikōchū Search Mission

In the anime, Akamaru accompanied his partner with the rest of Team Kurenai and Naruto to find the Bikōchū. The mission ultimately failed.

Buried Gold Excavation Mission

In the anime, his presence was used as Kiba's proof of being the real Kiba, as, while his impostor could imitate his face, he could not replace Akamaru.

Akamaru Monitoring Mission

Kiba's Long Day

Akamaru infected with a toxin.

In the anime, Akamaru was infected with a toxin that caused him to go berserk. When he attacked some Anbu members who were training, the order was given to have him taken into custody. As Hana attempted to make a cure for Akamaru, Kiba smuggled his dog out of the village and escaped, having heard that Akamaru might need to be put to sleep, but Akamaru continued to lose control of himself. By the time Naruto and Hana caught up with Kiba, Akamaru had turned into a giant version of himself, and attacked anyone near him. Kiba hesitated in the face of the possibility that Akamaru might die, but, after Naruto and Hana's attempt to pin Akamaru down and administer the antidote failed, Kiba apologised to Akamaru while standing still as Akamaru leapt at him. Kiba was severely injured, but managed to inject Akamaru with the antidote, and noted that Akamaru had tried his best to avoid killing him.

Interlude

In Naruto's Footsteps: The Friends' Paths

In the anime, after Naruto left the village for three years to train with Jiraiya of the Sannin, Kiba's jealousy in Naruto's continued luck of recent made him determined to best his fellow Konoha-nin. To this end, Akamaru joined Kiba in a new training to increase the power of their Combination Transformation skills. Taking inspiration from Naruto's usage of shadow clones for support in battle, Akamaru and Kiba worked arduously to developed their Three-Headed Wolf Technique.[10] Two years after Naruto's departure, Konohagakure decided to host the Chūnin Exams early alongside Sunagakure. Akamaru joined Kiba as usual to enter the exams.[11]

After Kiba passed the first exam, Akamaru joined his partner to Sunagakure where the second exam would be held. There, the second exam's nature was essentially the same as the one Konoha previously had, requiring everyone to obtain two matching scrolls before three days passed in a survival competition.[12] Later, when the team engaged an enemy team of of Kusagakure-nin, Akamaru joined Kiba against Burami, whose obese stature was used to his advantage, absorbing and repelling all of Kiba and Akamaru's attacks. Soon, the enemy realised Kiba had the Earth scroll and together were able to steal it from him before retreating. As Team Kurenai attempted to stop them, Burami blasted them with a foul-smelling smokescreen, impairing Kiba and Akamaru's sense of smell. While the enemy got out of Hinata's Byakugan range, Shino set one of his female insects on the enemy to track. While pursuing the enemy, Akamaru and his teammates fell into a quicksand pit. Akamaru, however, was able to use his Dynamic Marking to solidify the sand enough for the team to escape. Once recovering, Team Kurenai resumed their pursuit of the enemy.[13]

As Kiba and Akamaru continued following the scent, they soon found it multiplied and scattered throughout the area. When Shino's bugs failed to find the enemies as well and suggested going after other enemy scrolls, Kiba, finding to his annoyance thinking about Naruto again, became determined not to fail. Then realising that Burami's scent was his clothes from their earlier scuffle, Kiba and Akamaru used it to find the real enemy. While back on the trail again, the enemies ambushed Team Kurenai. While initially overwhelmed, the team swapped out of the predicament with Shino's insect clones, allowing them to regroup. Seeing through the enemies' tactics, Team Kurenai quickly pressured the Kusa-nin before Kiba and Akamaru finished them off with his Three-Headed Wolf technique, earning Team Kurenai a Heaven and Earth scroll.[14] Later, Team Kurenai was caught in a massive sandstorm.[15] Ultimately, the team was rescued by the Suna-nin proctors and brought to a building to wait out the storm before resuming the exams.[16]

Part II

Tenchi Bridge Reconnaissance Mission

When Naruto met Kiba while looking for team-mates, he noticed that Akamaru was much larger, especially given that Kiba was now riding on him rather than having him sit on his head. Naruto asked Kiba to join his team for a mission, and even proposed having Akamaru go with him without Kiba, but Kiba refused the suggestion.

Twelve Guardian Ninja

Main article: Twelve Guardian Ninja (Arc) In the anime, when Team Kakashi returned from the Fire Temple with a young monk named Sora, Sora quickly made it known that he didn't care what any living thing thought of him, and quickly got into a staring contest with Akamaru, to which Kiba became annoyed at. Later, when Furido and his men attacked the Leaf Village, Akamaru demonstrated that his new size also helped considerably in battle, as he was able to take down several zombies without transforming.

Three-Tails' Appearance

In the anime, when Kakashi was ordered to investigate the latest whereabouts of Orochimaru, Team Kurenai was assigned to work with him due to their tracking skills. When they managed to find Orochimaru's hideout, they triggered a trap that destroyed the base. Fortunately, Akamaru's nose was able to find a way out in time. Later, Akamaru began to have trouble concentrating due to a high-frequency sound. It was through this that the team realised that they were being spied on by bats. When the enemy ambushed them and rendered their sense of smell helpless with a smokescreen, Akamaru convinced Kiba to try their beast-like taijutsu to blow away the smoke.

Soon, the team found themselves being attacked by Guren. There, Kiba and Akamaru again worked together to fight off her attacks. After sensing their enemy's new overwhelming might, Akamaru saved Kiba by digging into the ground and hiding them in a pit.

Itachi Pursuit Mission

Eight Man Squad

Team 7 and 8 set out to pursue Itachi.

After it was decided that the best way to find Sasuke was to find Itachi Uchiha, Akamaru and Kiba later assisted Naruto in searching for either of the Uchiha brothers.

Fated Battle Between Brothers

Unfortunately, the squad were unable to reach Sasuke in time and returned home.

Six-Tails Unleashed

Main article: Six-Tails Unleashed

Pain's Assault

When Pain invaded Konoha, Kiba and Akamaru joined Kiba's mother and Kuromaru in fighting the Preta Path. Later, during the aftermath of the struggle, he appeared with Kiba riding him to warn Naruto, Sakura and Kakashi that Danzō had been appointed as the Sixth Hokage and had just given the order permitting ninja to dispose of Sasuke as a missing-nin.

Past Arc: The Locus of Konoha

Main article: Past Arc: The Locus of Konoha In the anime, after Kiba had signed up to be the village’s messenger, Akamaru accompanied his partner in delivering packages and messages to the villagers.

Five Kage Summit

Sakura's team

Akamaru and Kiba accompany Sakura to the Land of Iron.

When Konoha 11 has decided to eliminate Sasuke for his crimes and to prevent him from sinking any lower and dragging the village into a terrible international war as a result, Sakura decided to tell Naruto herself, with Akamaru, Kiba, Sai, and Lee accompanying her. They headed for the Land of Iron, but Sakura denied the truth from Naruto, and the group left to find Sasuke. Sakura managed to use a powerful sleeping gas bomb to knock out the others, including Akamaru. Kakashi later finds them sleeping in the middle of the path, and moved them to the side before leaving for the bridge where Sasuke and Sakura are. Akamaru wakes up from being smoke bombed by Sakura and returns to Konoha.

He later accompanies Kiba as the Konoha 11 speak about what they would do about the looming threat that Sasuke Uchiha posed to the safety of the villages and the relative peace that they had.

Power

Main article: Power (Arc)

Paradise Life on a Boat

Main article: Paradise Life on a Boat

Fourth Shinobi World War: Confrontation

File:Inuzuka Kiba and Akamaru at the war.png

Kiba and Akamaru during the Fourth Shinobi World War.

Along with his partner, Kiba, Akamaru was assigned to the Fifth Division of the Allied Shinobi Forces during the Fourth Shinobi World War. He and a team of shinobi are later sent to back up the Second Division. Akamaru and Kiba attacked the White Zetsu Army clones with their Fang Passing Fang technique ripping the enemy to shreds. The two later regrouped with Neji, Hinata and Shino after the attacking White Zetsu Army clones are wiped out — seemingly exhausted. Akamaru then stood by as Kiba tried to get an exhausted Neji to go to the medical compound for treatment. As Kiba lectured Neji about overusing his Byakugan, Neji responded to Akamaru instead of Kiba, confirming just how strained his eyesight was. Finally backing down from the front that he was all right, Akamaru later carried Neji on his back as the trio relocated.

Kiba and Akamaru transform

Kiba and Akamaru confront the reincarnated Sakon and Ukon.

The next day, Akamaru alongside Kiba battled the transformed White Zetsu Army clones that had infiltrated their ranks. In the anime, the battle turns more personal when the Sound Four ninja are also summoned to the battlefield. Kiba and Akamaru face off again against Sakon and Ukon. With there improved skills, Kiba and Akamaru are able to completely plough through Sakon and Ukon defences and defeat them. However, their victory is short-lived, as the ninja twins engulf the four of them in a strange technique. Akamaru's body was left in a comatose state while his soul was sent to a new location where it was reanimated within a large barrier. Inside, the inhabitants are able to battle normal. However, the Sound Four inform their enemies that in time, their actual bodies' halted chakra flow will eventually cause them to die. In addition, killing the Sound Four will not undo the technique. Despite the initial stalemate, the Sound Four's enhanced Cursed Seals grow even stronger from their accumulated malice, quickly overwhelming the Konoha ninja. Seeing that, Shikamaru begins to intentionally provoke them, knowing that Naruto's new senses would pick up on it. Eventually, Naruto finds them and breaks through the barrier, allowing Inoichi, through a telepathic connection, to release the technique and restore Akamaru and the others to their bodies. Upon awakening, Akamaru thanks Shino for his efforts in save them.

Later, amidst the battles, Kiba warned Neji that Hinata was in trouble. Neji failed to save "Hinata" from an Iwa-nin, only for "Hinata" to be revealed as a White Zetsu Army clone. As Akamaru and Kiba continued toward the real Hinata, Kiba chastised Neji for going the wrong way, but before they could reach Hinata, she was saved by Naruto's shadow clone which had arrived on the battlefield. After a brief argument between Kiba, Naruto and Neji, they mobilised with Naruto to sift out the fake shinobi from the real ones.

Fourth Shinobi World War: Climax

Allied Forces Jutsu

Akamaru, along with remainder of the Allied Shinobi Force, arrive at the battlefield.

Later heading out with the other members of the Allied Shinobi Forces to where the jinchūriki were, Akamaru and Kiba arrive on the battlefield and stood with the others to face their opposition. When the Alliance's counter-attack was launched, Akamaru and Kiba were buffeted by the fully matured Ten-Tails as it emerged from the hole it had been trapped in.

Later when Kurama had generated enough chakra, Naruto transferred some of it to Akamaru who afterwards, alongside Kiba, charged towards the Uchiha and the Ten-Tails where their combined efforts were able to separate the two Uchiha from the beast. When the Alliance was saved from the Ten-Tails' enormous Tailed Beast Ball, Akamaru's behaviour alerted them to the fact that Minato was a reincarnated shinobi. Though Minato waved down their suspicion telling them that he was on their side, Akamaru was later shocked to see Sasuke on the battlefield and even more so when he declared that he would become Hokage. When Kiba later made a comment to Shikamaru's resolve to become an adviser to the Hokage, Akamaru voiced some concern. Shino, however, told Akamaru it was all right as the Hokage could have up to three advisers.

After Madara was revived, Akamaru and Kiba assisted the Alliance in battling Tobi.

Birth of the Ten-Tails' Jinchūriki

Akamaru would later alert Kiba to the dōjutsu reflected on the moon. Akamaru as well as the others would later fall victim to Madara's Infinite Tsukuyomi.

Kaguya Ōtsutsuki Strikes

Ultimately, Akamaru and the rest of the world were free from the genjutsu by Sasuke and Naruto after they ended the war.

Blank Period

Rai no Sho

During a walk with Kiba, Akamaru began to notice all Kiba's friends started finding girlfriends and started settling down, which he found annoying. He felt that humans entered estrous too late and that Kiba was the only real shinobi among his friends for not falling for such desires, believing he would become the Seventh Hokage. However, after hearing from many young women that they were certain Naruto was going to be the Seventh, he began to worry about Kiba.

Later, when Kiba went off on his own, Akamaru became worried since he realised Kiba was being deceitful and followed him. Seeing Kiba was secretly meeting a girl, Akamaru became annoyed and even admitted that Kiba probably didn't have the skills to become Hokage if he focused so much on girls. However, he changes his mind when he realises Kiba was meeting a young vet to give him his immunisations by surprise.

In the end though, Akamaru became overly protective when he noticed Kiba had a strong mutual attraction with Tamaki and tried to "protect" Kiba by fruitlessly pulling him away from her.

Konoha Hiden: The Perfect Day for a Wedding

Main article: Konoha Hiden: The Perfect Day for a Wedding When Shino and Kiba gathered together with their sensei Kurenai, to discuss Hinata's wedding gift, his ears were pulled by Kurenai's daughter, Mirai.

Epilogue

Years later, having grown old, Akamaru became very docile and laid about with his new pups. He would mock Kiba's insistence he had turned down the Seventh Hokage seat, however, smirking playfully at his master.

In Other Media

Video Games

Akamaru is a playable character in the following video games:

Game nameJapanese releaseEnglish release
Naruto: Clash of Ninja 24 December 200326 September 2006
Naruto: Gekitō Ninja Taisen! 320 November 2004
Naruto: Gekitō Ninja Taisen! 421 November 2005

Although he is a playable character in only a few games, Akamaru appears alongside Kiba in all of his video game appearances.

Trivia

  • The 'Aka' in Akamaru's name means the colour 'red', and 'maru' meaning 'perfection' or 'full circle' is a common suffix for Japanese male names. The reason for his name was explained by Kiba when Akamaru's fur turned red after eating a Military Rations Pill.
  • According to the databook(s):
    • Akamaru wishes to fight Kuromaru.
    • Akamaru's favourite food is the special dog food Kiba makes.
  • Akamaru shares the same birthday with Kiba, which is also the day when Tanabata starts in Japan.
  • In an omake segment that aired in Japan for New Year's, Kiba attempted to get Akamaru to talk, with little success. There are no indications that Akamaru even has the potential to speak, other than the fact that other ninken can.
  • Interestingly, Naruto was first published in a segment of Weekly Shonen Jump known as "Akamaru Jump".
  • Akamaru in Part I and Naruto have the same seiyū, Junko Takeuchi. However, they have separate English voice actors.
  • During an interview, Kishimoto was asked which character he would like to see get a spin-off. Possibly as a joke, Kishimoto simply replied "Akamaru".

References

  1. First Databook, page 15
  2. Second Databook, page 15
  3. Third Databook, page 15
  4. Fourth Databook, page 16
  5. Naruto episode 121
  6. Naruto Databooks
  7. Chapter 282, pages 14, 16
  8. Chapter 200, page 13
  9. Naruto episode 116
  10. Naruto: Shippūden episode 403
  11. Naruto: Shippūden episode 396
  12. Naruto: Shippūden episode 398
  13. Naruto: Shippūden episode 402
  14. Naruto: Shippūden episode 403
  15. Naruto: Shippūden episode 410
  16. Naruto: Shippūden episode 411