Follow the article below on the website Dogsbreed.org to learn about the Akita Bernard dog breed: Origin, physical characteristics, personality, health status and how to care for this dog breed!
Akita Bernard
The Akita Bernard is a large and loyal new crossbreed that’s still relatively unknown. A mix between the faithful, headstrong Akita and the loyal, easygoing Saint Bernard, this newer cross is sure to keep winning hearts for years to come.Â
The Akita Bernard’s parent breeds are both beloved. Interestingly, Akitas got their start protecting royalty in feudal Japan. Because of their history, this breed will stay by your side as a protector. The Saint Bernard is largely known for daring alpine rescues. For the right dog parent, they can be amazingly devoted companions. As both parent breeds are large, this breed mix certainly isn’t for the faint of heart.
The Akita Bernard’s status as a crossbreed means that they’re unlikely to be found up for adoption. Still, there are millions of dogs waiting for homes in shelters. When looking for a specific breed, make an effort to adopt from a shelter or rescue. It’s important to keep in mind that given how uncommon this breed mix is, they might not be recognized by shelters and may simply be listed as a mix.
Akita Bernard Pictures
Akita Bernard Highlights
- The Akita Bernard is sometimes demanding, but devoted and loyal to their families.
- The Akita Bernard should focus on training from a young age, as Akitas contribute some possessive tendencies.
- Akita Bernards are loyal and intelligent, but not for beginner dog parents. They can be strong-willed and have issues with guarding. Particularly those that take after Akitas, this breed can be aggressive with strangers or other dogs. Saint Bernards are known as gentle giants, but Akitas are typically aggressive to anyone outside of their immediate family. It’s important to connect with a trainer from a young age to ensure your pup has the best shot at success.
Akita Bernard History
The Akita Bernard is a mixed breed, so they don’t have history as their own breed. Both parent breeds, however, are well known and loved.The Akita originated in Japan, originally used as guard dogs for royalty. They were also used as a hunting dog capable of taking down formidable prey such as wild boar. They were first brought to the United States as a gift to Helen Keller, who owned the first two Akitas in America. In modern times, they are prized as a high-drive guard dog and companion. The Saint Bernard is often associated with the Swiss Alps, but some believe they were originally brought there by the Romans. Either way, they are largely known for the companionship they offered to monks, along with being used to rescue trapped people from avalanches.
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Akita Bernard Size
The Akita Bernard is a large breed that often surpasses 100 pounds. They are usually a variation of tan and white, but can have any color combination contributed by the parent breeds. The Akita Bernard is incredibly loyal, and they enjoy spending time with their dog parents. This breed is prone to separation anxiety. They’re perfect for a stay-at-home worker who still makes time to go on a hike or participate in other daily exercise with their pup. They grow bored easily, so be sure they are occupied if you are away. It may be a good idea to hire a dog walker to give the Akita Bernard extra opportunities to burn off energy when you are away. Keep in mind this won’t always be possible, as the Akita Bernard may not trust any others to enter the home or handle them. If you plan on having a caregiver other than yourself for your pup, be sure to introduce them carefully and with lots of positive reinforcement. Ideally, socialize your pup from a young age.
Akita Bernard Personality
Akita Bernards are often good-natured and loving, but also high energy and overprotective. It’s crucial to work on socialization from a young age for this breed. Given their Akita heritage, they may be wary of strangers or other dogs. They are also prone to guarding behavior which may manifest in nuisance barking, growling, or lunging without training.Â
Akita Bernard Health
While Akita Bernards originating from responsible breeders are often healthy, there are some genetic predispositions towards health issues to be aware of with this crossbreed.Â
- Hip Dysplasia
- Bloat
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Heart Defects
Akita Bernard Care
The Akita Bernard needs daily exercise to feel content. Ideally, this breed should receive (at least) an hour or so walk or hike daily. Additionally, they enjoy indoor or outdoor play like fetch or tug-of-war. The Akita Bernard isn’t a good fit for apartment dwellers, as they crave space to roam. With an intelligent breed like this, provide other opportunities for mental stimulation, like scent work or daily training sessions.
Akita Bernard Feeding
The Akita Bernard should be fed a diet consistent with that of a large-sized breed with high energy levels. Additionally, their high energy and drive may make enriching toys like puzzle feeders and filled bones great for the Akita Bernard. This breed can be prone to obesity, so be sure not to overfeed. Because all dogs are unique in their diet requirements, it’s best to consult your veterinarian to determine the best food to feed your pup.
Akita Bernard Coat Color And Grooming
The Akita Bernard’s coat needs regular maintenance. They typically have a thick double coat. Brushing should be performed at least several times a week to reduce shedding and mats and encourage cleanliness. Bathing is to be done on an as-needed basis, rarely more than once a month. As with all dog breeds, be sure to check on nail maintenance.
Akita Bernard Children And Other Pets
There are some factors to consider before adding the Akita Bernard to your family. While this breed can be good with older children, they’re unlikely to be a good match for those with young children or plans to add to the family. They can be overexcited, leading to accidentally bowling over a smaller child, as well as being prone to mouthiness or nipping behavior. This also goes for small animals and dogs. Typically, the Akita Bernard is a one-pet household dog due to their Akita heritage. However, if you adopt a young Akita Bernard, be sure to work with a trainer and encourage socialization so that your pup has the best shot at friendliness with others. When properly socialized and trained, it is possible for this breed to peacefully coexist with others.
Akita Bernard Rescue Groups
There are no breed specific rescues for the Akita Bernard as they are a mixed breed. However, you can often find similar mixes of the Akita or Saint Bernard up for adoption. If you are unable to find either of these breeds, given their relative uncommonness, consider a similar fit. Whatever the circumstances, try opening your home to a rescue pup.
