The Akita Bernese Mountain Dog Mix is a unique and loving companion that requires careful consideration before bringing home. This hybrid breed combines the gentle giant qualities of the Bernese Mountain Dog with the loyal and protective nature of the Akita.
The Akita Bernese Mountain Dog Mix typically weighs between 80-120 pounds and stands between 24-28 inches tall, making them a large breed that needs plenty of space to move around. Their thick coats require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
Their exercise needs are moderate to high, requiring daily walks and playtime to keep them happy and healthy.
On a similar theme: Bernese Mountain Dog Standard
About the Mix
The Bernese Akita, a cross between the loyal Bernese Mountain Dog and the loyal Akita, is a unique and interesting breed. This mix is relatively unknown, so it's essential to study the characteristics of its parent breeds.
The Bernese Akita inherits the versatility and loyalty of both its parents, making it a useful and obedient companion. Its sturdy build is reminiscent of the Bernese Mountain Dog, while its loyalty is a testament to the Akita's nature.
Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for this mix, as it may be prone to elbow and hip dysplasia, a common issue in both the Bernese Mountain Dog and Akita breeds.
All About
The Mix is a UK-based charity that provides free and confidential support for young people under 25. It's been around since 1996.
The Mix offers a range of services, including online support, phone lines, and online chat. You can reach out to them for help with anything from mental health to relationships.
Young people can access The Mix's services online, 24/7, making it a convenient option for those who need support outside of traditional office hours.
Mix
The Bernese Mountain Dog Akita Mix, also known as the Bernese Akita, is a unique cross between two loyal breeds.
It's a cross between the loyal feudal Japan watchdog Akita and the very versatile and equally loyal Bernese Mountain Dog.
The Bernese Mountain Dog Akita Mix is a sturdy and obedient dog, inheriting the loyalty of the Akita and the usefulness of the Bernese Mountain Dog.
Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for this mix, as it may be prone to elbow and hip dysplasia, a common issue in both its parent breeds.
You'll want to keep an eye out for signs of these conditions, and work closely with your vet to ensure your dog stays healthy.
Here are some key characteristics to consider:
- Sturdy build
- Obedient temperament
- Loyal to its family
- May be prone to elbow and hip dysplasia
Health and Care
The Akita Bernese Mountain Dog mix is generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, it can be prone to certain health issues. The Akita is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Hip Dysplasia is a common health problem in both Akita and Bernese Mountain Dog breeds. Hip Dysplasia can lead to arthritis and mobility issues, so it's essential to monitor your dog's joint health and provide regular exercise to maintain strong muscles.
Regular veterinary visits are crucial to monitor your dog's health. The Akita should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year, while the Bernese Mountain Dog should have a check-up at least every 12-18 months.
To promote joint health and a shiny coat, consider providing supplements that support joint mobility and coat health. Omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin are beneficial additives to consider for a well-rounded supplement regimen.
Here are some recommended supplements for an Akita mix:
- Joint health support for dogs: cosequin
- Natural fish oil additive supplement with omega-3 and -6 fatty acids
- Therapeutic blend of organic horsetail, dandelion, spirulina and bladderwrack to promote healthy skin and hair
Health and Lifespan
The health and lifespan of your furry friend are crucial aspects of their care. The Akita and Bernese Mountain Dog breeds have some differences in this regard.
The Akita is a generally healthy breed, but it's essential to monitor it regularly for certain health issues. These include Hip Dysplasia, Hypothyroidism, Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), Bloat, and Sebaceous Adenitis.
The Bernese Mountain Dog, on the other hand, is also a healthy breed, but it's prone to more genetic health problems. These include Hip Dysplasia, Cancer, Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), Von Willebrand's Disease, Bloat, Elbow Dysplasia, Panosteitis, and Portosystemic Liver Shunt.
Regular veterinary visits are crucial for both breeds. The Akita should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year, while the Bernese Mountain Dog should have a check-up every 12-18 months, but preferably once per year.
The lifespan of these breeds varies significantly. The average lifespan of an Akita is 12 years, while that of a Bernese Mountain Dog is 9 years. This means that the Akita has a longer lifespan, ranging from 10-14 years, compared to the Bernese Mountain Dog's 7-11 years.
Here's a comparison of the health issues affecting both breeds:
Diet and Weight
When it comes to feeding your Akita or Bernese Mountain Dog, it's essential to get it right to avoid weight gain and obesity. The Akita requires 3 to 5 cups of high-quality dry food a day.
The Bernese Mountain Dog, on the other hand, needs 6 to 8 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. This is a significant difference, so be sure to check the feeding guidelines for your specific dog.
Both breeds are prone to weight gain, so it's crucial to monitor their food intake and exercise levels. If you don't pay attention, they can easily gain weight, which can lead to obesity and other health problems.
Here's a quick comparison of the daily food needs for both breeds:
By understanding their dietary needs and being mindful of their weight, you can help your Akita or Bernese Mountain Dog live a happy and healthy life.
Allergies and Grooming
Both Akita and Bernese Mountain Dog breeds have their own set of grooming needs.
The Akita has a fluffy coat that is easy to maintain, requiring minimal grooming effort. It's a great choice for those who don't want to spend a lot of time on dog grooming.
The Bernese Mountain Dog, on the other hand, has a dense coat that requires average grooming effort. This means regular brushing and occasional bathing to prevent matting and tangling.
If you're looking for a low-maintenance dog breed, the Akita might be a better fit. However, if you're willing to commit to regular grooming, the Bernese Mountain Dog can be a wonderful companion.
Here's a comparison of their grooming needs:
It's worth noting that both breeds are heavy shedders, so be prepared for regular vacuuming and dog hair removal.
Best Supplements
When choosing supplements for your Akita mix, consider their potential joint concerns and coat health. Cosequin is a top veterinarian-recommended joint health supplement, especially for joint mobility.
Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for skin and coat health, and can be found in supplements like Cosequin. Each soft chew also contains omega-3 fatty acids to support skin and coat.
Manufactured in the United States with globally sourced ingredients, Cosequin is a high-quality supplement. It's also backed by science, as it's veterinarian-formulated by Nutramax Laboratories Veterinary Sciences.
Here are some key features of supplements to consider:
The natural fish oil additive supplement works to support your pal's skin, coat, hips, and joints, heart, and immune system. It's a premium salmon oil rich with omega-3 and -6 fatty acids from EPA and DHA.
Behavior and Training
The Akita Bernese Mountain Dog mix is a unique breed that requires careful consideration when it comes to behavior and training.
Their independence can make training a challenge, but with patience and consistency, you can strengthen the bond between you and your Bernakita.
Abernatives to the Akita's aloof nature can be reduced with socialization training, and mixes with more amiable breeds like the Labrador Retriever may also help.
However, breeding the Akita with a breed of similar temperament, such as the Chow Chow, will only bring out this trait more.
Despite their strong personality, Bernakitas are serene guardians, always ready to watch over their domain.
With regular grooming, their luxurious double coat is a small price to pay for the elegance they bring to your home.
Daily exercise is also essential to keep your Bernakita healthy, as they may not be considered a high-energy breed.
Personality and Temperament
The Akita and Bernese Mountain Dog breeds have distinct personalities that can make or break their behavior and training. The Akita is known for being independent, protective, and alert, but also friendly and responsive. They're a bit more sensitive to irregular daily routines and noisy households, so it's essential to establish a consistent schedule and create a peaceful environment.
Their affection level is high, making them genuinely loyal and loving towards their handlers. However, they can be aloof with strangers, which requires extensive socialization training to prevent aggression. On the other hand, Bernese Mountain Dogs are intelligent, affectionate, and loyal, but less sensitive and more average in their affection level.
You might enjoy: Bernese Mountain Dog Activity Level
Here's a comparison of the two breeds' temperaments:
Both breeds are generally good with other pets, but the Akita has a higher prey drive, making them more suitable for hunting. They're also more likely to wander or roam, so it's essential to provide them with adequate exercise and training. Overall, understanding their unique personalities and temperaments is crucial for successful behavior and training.
Bite Characteristics
When it comes to understanding the biting potential of our furry friends, it's essential to know the facts. The Akita, with its moderate biting potential, has an average chance of biting somebody, which means we need to be aware of their behavior and take necessary precautions.
Both the Akita and Bernese Mountain Dog have an ordinary bite force, ranging from 200 to 400 PSI, which is not unusually strong or weak. This means they're not likely to inflict severe injuries, but it's still crucial to teach them gentle biting and mouthing skills.
If you're considering bringing either breed into your home, it's worth noting that both the Akita and Bernese Mountain Dog have a strong tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people. This means you'll need to be patient and consistent in training them to control their impulses.
Here's a summary of the biting potential of both breeds:
Remember, every dog is unique, and their biting potential can depend on various factors, including their breeding, socialization, and training. By understanding these characteristics, you can take steps to prevent unwanted biting and create a harmonious relationship with your furry companion.
Reproducibility
When breeding Akita or Bernese Mountain Dog, it's essential to consider their reproductive needs.
Both breeds have a similar gestation length, lasting around 60-64 days.
Akita and Bernese Mountain Dog breeders should limit breeding to once a year, as more frequent breeding can be unhealthy for the dog.
The litter size can vary significantly between the two breeds, with Akita litters typically ranging from 3-12 puppies.
Here's a comparison of the litter sizes for both breeds:
Understanding these reproductive facts can help you make informed decisions as a breeder or owner.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good mix for an Akita?
For an Akita mix, consider breeds that complement its size and energy level, such as a calm Labrador Retriever or a high-energy Siberian Husky. This combination can create a well-rounded and loving companion.
Sources
- 39+ Akita Mix Breeds: A Pet Parent Guide (alphapaw.com)
- 36 Akita Mixed Breeds (with Pictures) (dogster.com)
- 21 Bernese Mountain Dog Mixes: Swiss Sweethearts! [PICS] (k9ofmine.com)
- 21 Akita Mixes (With Pictures) (hepper.com)
- Akita vs Bernese Mountain Dog Comparison (dogell.com)
Featured Images: pexels.com