Akamaru is Kiba Inuzuka's nin-dog and his best friend, playing a crucial role in all of Kiba's attacks. As a puppy, Akamaru is often found either inside Kiba's jacket or on his head, but he eventually grows large enough for Kiba to ride him. Akamaru possesses exceptional senses, even more so than an ordinary dog, and can communicate with Kiba.
The name "Akamaru" means "red," with the suffix "maru" commonly used for male names in the series. When Akamaru consumes a soldier pill, his fur turns a dark red color. Interestingly, Takeuchi Junko voices both Akamaru and the main character, Naruto Uzumaki.
