Dog
Pronunciation:
uh-kee-tuh shep-erd
Breed Description:
The Akita Shepherd breed of dog is a large sized breed that was developed by crossing the Akita with the German Shepherd to create a muscular and athletic breed. They are usually slightly longer than they are tall with a slightly sloped top line. The build of the dog should be sturdy and should give the appearance of a very strong and enduring dog. The head is usually wedge shaped and the ears are large and erect and the tail is long and can curl up and over the back.
The coat of the Akita Shepherd should be very dense and should cover the dog completely. There should be a thick, short undercoat that is soft in texture and a top coat that is slightly longer. The topcoat should be harsh in texture and it should be longer on the tail and there should be a mane of fur around the neck and shoulders. The Akita Shepherd can be found in a range of colors including white, black, tan, gray, cream, and red but the most common color is the black and tan coloring of the German Shepherd with white on the paws.
Temperament:
The Akita Shepherd breed of dog is a strong tempered dog that is not recommended for new and timid owners. While they tend to have an easier nature than the Akita, the breed is known for having a very alpha temperament and are better suited to one owner than a family. If they are given proper rules and training, the Akita Shepherd can really show how wonderful and intelligent they are. They are generally very good with children, although they do need proper supervision when interacting with new children. In general, the Akita Shepherd is a very affectionate and loyal companion that will lay down their life to protect their owners. They can make excellent guard dogs and have proven themselves when it comes to a number of canine competitions and jobs. The breed can learn to live with other dogs, however, they can be aggressive towards other animals and need to be properly socialized.
Height:
The average height of an Akita Shepherd is between 22 to 28 inches.
Weight:
The average weight of an Akita Shepherd is between 50 to 100 pounds.
Health Problems:
The Akita Shepherd breed of dog has no known health problems, however, is important to research both the Akita and the German Shepherd to be aware of any potential health problems your dog could be at risk for.
Living Conditions:
The Akita Shepherd breed of dog can live in apartments if their exercise needs are met, however, they are better suited to a home with a large fenced yard. They should not be outdoor dogs since too much time on their own could cause aggression problems. In addition, they can be aggressive towards other animals and will need a fenced yard to keep them and other animals safe.
Exercise:
The Akita Shepherd breed of dog is a very energetic breed and requires at least 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day. They do have excess stores of energy and if they are not properly exercised they can become very destructive. Akita Shepherds make excellent jogging companions.
Life Expectancy:
10 to 14 years
Grooming:
The Akita Shepherd breed of dog is a very easy breed to groom and you should only expect to brush the coat about once per week, however, you will need to brush it two or three times a week during shedding periods. They do not need a bath on a regular basis and can go most of the year with only one or two since they don't have a strong doggy odor. Ears should be cleaned on a regular basis and the nails should be clipped once or twice a week, but other than that, nothing more really needs to be done.
Origin:
The Akita Shepherd breed of dog is a designer `hybrid`breed that has become popular over the last decade or so. There is no actual origin for the breed and if you are interested in learning more about the Akita Shepherd, it is important to read up on both the Akita and the German Shepherd. Comments
The standards for all the breeds accepted to the AKC are used here for breed information, and those not part of the AKC are resourced from FCI standard information, where it is written and coded into the club rules for those breeds.
