i know you're pretty set on cat akito but have you considered german shepherd akito. they're known as working dogs but very specifically they're herding dogs! german shepherds are very smart dogs, but they tend to be veryyy stubborn and oftentimes difficult to train because of it. but they are known to be reserved, nowhere near as feisty as a golden retriever or any labrador, and very loyal dedicated dogs :) i think their temperament matches up with his personality and his work ethic, and how his role in vbs is similar to a herding dog's, less of someone "who's a leader" more like someone who "leads". please hear me out tbh you have a lot of good opinions but i'm curious what your thoughts are on this one