I think you're lucky to have such a mellow Akita. It is possible that the bird dog your Akita is deferring to is an older dog, so your Akita is respecting that. Also, since your Akita is still quite young, he may not be real confident yet. My neutered male Akita has never taken guff from any dog -- but for one: a tiny little mixed breed female who used to live in the same neighborhood as us. He knew this (older, though much smaller) dog since he was a puppy, and he always stood down when she would correct him. Has your Akita known this other dog since he was a little pup? If so, that is likely also a factor for why he defers. Again, though, if your Akita is mellow with other animals it is a good thing, IMO. In the long run, it will make your life a whole lot easier than if he were dog aggressive. Don't try to change him to make him dog aggressive; it will only screw him up. Count your blessings.
