The Akita Shepherd is a mixed breed dog resulting from crossing a German Shepherd with an Akita. This large, powerful hybrid combines the loyalty and protective instincts of both parent breeds. Akita Shepherds are known for their strength, intelligence, and fierce devotion to their families. While they can make excellent companions for experienced dog owners, they require consistent training, socialization, and a firm but loving hand to thrive.
Key Facts
- Size: Large
- Weight: 75-120 pounds (34-54 kg)
- Height: 24-28 inches (61-71 cm) at the shoulder
- Lifespan: 10-13 years
- Coat: Dense double coat, medium to long length
- Colors: Various, including black, brown, fawn, and brindle, often with markings
- Exercise Needs: High
- Intelligence: High
- Trainability: Moderate to challenging
- Shedding: Heavy
Character Traits
Akita Shepherds inherit a blend of personality traits from their parent breeds, resulting in a complex and often intense character. They are typically:
- Loyal: Extremely devoted to their family, often forming a particularly strong bond with one person
- Protective: Natural guardians with a strong instinct to defend their home and family
- Intelligent: Quick learners with a sharp mind, requiring mental stimulation
- Independent: Can be stubborn and may try to assert dominance if not properly trained
- Aloof with strangers: Tend to be reserved around unfamiliar people, requiring early socialization
- Energetic: Need regular exercise and activity to stay physically and mentally healthy
These dogs are not typically recommended for first-time dog owners due to their strong-willed nature and high exercise requirements. They thrive in homes where they receive consistent training, plenty of exercise, and clear leadership from their owners. Akita Shepherds can be excellent family dogs when properly raised, but may be wary of strangers and require supervision around small children and other pets.
History & Origins
The Akita Shepherd is a relatively new mixed breed, likely originating within the last few decades as designer dog breeds became popular. To understand this hybrid, it’s essential to look at the history of both parent breeds:
- German Shepherd: Developed in Germany in the late 19th century by Captain Max von Stephanitz, who aimed to create the perfect working dog. German Shepherds quickly gained popularity as versatile working dogs, excelling in roles such as herding, police work, military service, and as guide dogs for the blind.
- Akita: An ancient Japanese breed with a history dating back several centuries. Originally bred for hunting large game and as guard dogs, Akitas were also favored by Japanese nobility. They nearly went extinct during World War II but were revived and gained international recognition in the mid-20th century.
The Akita Shepherd combines the working dog heritage of the German Shepherd with the noble and protective nature of the Akita. While not recognized as a standardized breed by major kennel clubs, Akita Shepherds have gained a following among dog enthusiasts who appreciate their unique blend of traits. As with many designer dog breeds, the exact origins and timeline of the Akita Shepherd’s development are not well-documented, but they likely emerged as breeders sought to combine the desirable qualities of both parent breeds.
Health Concerns
The Akita Shepherd, being a mix of German Shepherd and Akita, can inherit health issues common to both parent breeds. Hip dysplasia is a significant concern, as both parent breeds are prone to this condition. Bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), is another serious health risk that owners should be aware of. Other potential health issues include:
- Elbow dysplasia
- Eye problems (such as progressive retinal atrophy)
- Hypothyroidism
- Skin allergies
- Von Willebrand’s disease (a blood clotting disorder)
Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for early detection and management of these conditions. Responsible breeding practices can help reduce the likelihood of inherited health problems. It’s important to obtain health clearances for both parent breeds when acquiring an Akita Shepherd puppy. Genetic testing can also provide valuable information about potential health risks.
Exercise Needs
The Akita Shepherd is a high-energy breed that requires substantial daily exercise to maintain physical and mental well-being. These dogs typically need at least 60-90 minutes of vigorous activity per day, split into multiple sessions. Suitable activities include:
- Long walks or jogs
- Off-leash running in secure areas
- Hiking
- Swimming
- Agility training
- Fetch and other interactive games
Mental stimulation is equally important for this intelligent breed. Puzzle toys, obedience training, and scent work can help keep their minds engaged. Without adequate exercise and mental stimulation, Akita Shepherds may develop destructive behaviors or become overly anxious. It’s crucial to establish a consistent exercise routine from a young age to ensure proper development and behavior.
Space Requirements
The Akita Shepherd is a large breed that thrives in spacious environments. Ideally, these dogs should have access to a large, securely fenced yard where they can run and play freely. While they can adapt to apartment living with sufficient exercise, it’s not the optimal setting for their size and energy levels.
Key space considerations include:
- A minimum of 1,000-1,500 square feet of living space
- Outdoor area of at least 400-600 square feet
- Secure fencing at least 6 feet high to prevent escapes
- Separate sleeping area or crate for rest and privacy
Akita Shepherds also benefit from having designated areas for play and training within the home. If living in an apartment, frequent trips to dog parks or open spaces are essential to meet their exercise needs. It’s important to note that these dogs may not do well in crowded or noisy environments, so a quieter setting is often preferable.
Nutrition & Feeding
Proper nutrition is crucial for the health and well-being of Akita Shepherds. As large, active dogs, they require a high-quality, protein-rich diet formulated for large breeds. The daily caloric intake should be adjusted based on the dog’s age, weight, activity level, and overall health status.
Key nutritional considerations include:
- High-quality protein sources (meat as the first ingredient)
- Balanced omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for coat health
- Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support
- Appropriate calcium and phosphorus levels for bone health
- Controlled portion sizes to prevent obesity
Adult Akita Shepherds typically require 2-3 cups of dry food per day, divided into two meals. However, this can vary based on individual needs. It’s important to monitor their weight and adjust food intake accordingly. Fresh water should always be available. Treats should be given in moderation, not exceeding 10% of their daily caloric intake. Consult with a veterinarian to develop a tailored nutrition plan for your Akita Shepherd.
Grooming Tips
The Akita Shepherd’s grooming needs can be moderate to high, depending on which parent breed they take after more. Both German Shepherds and Akitas are known for their double coats that shed seasonally, so regular brushing is essential. Aim to brush your Akita Shepherd at least 2-3 times a week, increasing to daily during shedding seasons. Use a slicker brush or undercoat rake to remove loose fur and prevent matting.
Bathing should be done as needed, typically every 6-8 weeks, using a dog-specific shampoo to maintain coat health. Pay special attention to their ears, checking and cleaning them weekly to prevent infections. Trim their nails regularly, ideally every 2-3 weeks, and brush their teeth several times a week to maintain good oral hygiene. During grooming sessions, it’s also a good opportunity to check for any skin issues, lumps, or abnormalities.
If your Akita Shepherd has inherited the Akita’s thick, plush coat, they may require professional grooming occasionally, especially during heavy shedding periods. Be prepared for significant fur loss during these times and consider using a de-shedding tool to manage it more effectively.
Training Approach
Training an Akita Shepherd requires patience, consistency, and a firm but gentle approach. These dogs are intelligent and can be independent-minded, traits inherited from both parent breeds. Early socialization is crucial to ensure they grow into well-adjusted adults. Expose them to various people, animals, and environments from a young age.
Positive reinforcement techniques work best with this breed. Use treats, praise, and play as rewards for good behavior. Avoid harsh corrections, as this can lead to stubbornness or defensive behavior. Focus on establishing yourself as a calm, confident leader through consistent rules and boundaries.
Akita Shepherds may have a strong prey drive and territorial instincts, so obedience training is essential. Start with basic commands and gradually move to more advanced training. Mental stimulation is as important as physical exercise for this breed, so incorporate puzzle toys and training games into their routine. Remember that both Akitas and German Shepherds can be aloof with strangers, so ongoing socialization throughout their life is beneficial to maintain a well-balanced temperament.
