Husky Akita Mix Facts

Akita Husky Mix

Akita Huskies, which others also affectionately referred to as Huskitas, is a mixture of a Siberian Husky and an Akita. These large-sized dogs have the protective nature of an Akita and the hunting instinct of their Husky parent. They are always alert and devoted to guarding their family, which makes them an excellent watchdog.

This mixed breed is also playful, very energetic and loving animals. They are one of the best companions who are loyal and affectionate. They are generally good with children and other pets at home, but they could turn aggressive and territorial if they have dominant Akita genes. If it is the case, they might not be welcoming towards strangers.

Some Husky mixed with Akita, on the other hand, are detached and standoffish. It is imperative to remember that these dogs are powerful and may have an independent personality.

3 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Get a Husky Mixed with Akita

• Can become territorial and aggressive. One of their parent breeds, the Akita, is known for their outstanding loyalty, bravery, being most protective of their owner. As a result, this cross may have primitive aggression which can be triggered by anxiety. They don’t do well when introduced in an environment that is too unfamiliar.
  However, with the right training and socialization, you can teach these dogs to relax and let down their guard. Owners should have had experience with handling powerful dogs, so they know what to do when the occasional aggression might kick in.
  
• Will need a lot of exercises. The Husky is an intelligent and highly energetic breed. These traits are passed down to their mixed breed offspring. You would need to have an active lifestyle that would involve exercise with your Akita mixed with Husky puppy. Consistent daily exercise can help them expend some of their excess energy and be content for a while.
  
• May not be suitable for inexperienced owners. Raising these dogs are quite a challenge for anyone, but most especially to first-time owners. You’ll have to know how to handle this powerful dog in different situations. They are known to choosing a favorite, which means they are devoted and may limit their loyalty exclusively to one owner.

That person, to them, is the alpha. With the Husky’s stubbornness and the Akita’s independence, these dogs can be a challenge to train. They will test your dominance every once in a while. It is a natural trait and part of their instincts.

Other Husky Mixes

Love huskies but not sure this particular pup is for you? Check out America’s most popular Husky mix breed dogs.

1. Doberman Husky Mix
2. Great Pyrenees Husky Mix
3. Great Dane Husky Mix
4. Rottweiler Husky Mix
5. Chihuahua Husky Mix
6. Boxer Husky Mix
7. Malamute Husky Mix
8. Chow Chow Husky Mix
9. Pitbull Husky Mix
10. Pug Husky Mix
11. Pomeranian Husky Mix
12. Labrador Husky Mix
13. Australian Shepherd Husky Mix
14. Golden Retriever Husky Mix
15. Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mix
16. Beagle Husky Mix
17. Poodle Husky Mix

3 Reasons Why You Should Get an Akita Combined with Husky

1. They make an excellent guard dog. This mix breed is always alert, intelligent, and very protective, which is why they are perfect guard dogs. They look the part, too, with their big, strong, and powerful physique. With the right training, they can be disciplined so as not to be too aggressive towards strangers and would only bark when the situation calls for it.
2. Won’t need too much attention. If you want a companion that is loyal as well as independent, then the Akita mixed with Husky is the perfect pet for you. As long as they get their regular exercise, they would be content to play or wander around on their own as well as stay quietly by your side. They enjoy the company of their owners, but unlike lapdogs, they don’t need you to interact with them constantly.
3. Loyal and obedient. They can grow up to be very obedient dogs. Since both parent breeds are working dogs, the Husky combined with Akita can be loyal companions. It can be difficult to train them at first, but if you are able to establish discipline at the very beginning, you can trust them to follow your commands. Training and socialization are crucial during their young and impressionable years.

Appearance, Personality, and Traits of a Husky Akita Mix

The Husky Akitas physical attributes carry both the most noticeable traits of the two breeds, the Siberian Husky and the Akita. Their faces resemble closely to an Akita with a short muzzle and robust jaw. They can either have brown or blue almond-shaped eyes. Their large erect ears are widely set apart. These dogs are covered with medium-length rough and dense coats that can vary in colors, masks, and markings. Most common colors are white, black, gray, tan, red and brown.

This crossbreed has a large, solid, and muscular body. Both parent breeds are working dogs, which is the primary reason why their mix produces pups with strong and powerful bodies. This large breed can grow up to 22 – 26 inches in height and weigh between 70 to 120 pounds. They have a strikingly majestic posture that certainly looks intimidating.

For a mix breed, the Husky Akita Mix can be difficult to handle. This cross may not be best for new owners and families with small children. They are well-suited companions for someone who lives alone or in a small household. You’ll have to make sure that your area is fenced in and secured as they are also known to wander off on their own.

Their Akita side makes these dogs extremely loyal and protective only to a single person. They are affectionate and submissive to their owners. But there is also a chance that primitive aggression exists in this breed. They can become very territorial and possessive. Husky’s energetic personality only fuels these unfavorable behaviors.

When in a comfortable and secure environment, only then can they let down their guards, and relax in their own way. In this situation, you’ll find that they are quite friendly and very playful. Their aggressiveness towards strangers, other pets or anything else can be righted with proper training and socializing. It is important that their owners and other family members have experience in handling powerful and tenacious dogs. They must see you as the alpha of the pack.

Aside from being in familiar surroundings, they also like to have consistency with their daily activities. Due to their hypersensitivity to their environment can become anxious and aggressive when there is too many changes or unfamiliar things around them. Since they are independent in nature, they don’t need much of your attention. Some may also consider them to be aloof. These smart dogs are very easy to train and very obedient when given the right approach.

Akita Huskies Puppies for Sale

It is very important to look for Husky Akita puppies from reputable breeders. They are the only one who can help you ensure that your puppy is healthy. Ask for certificates and other documents as proof of health screenings, vaccinations, and medical histories. They should be able to give you information about their breed as well as their parents.

You can also perform a background check about the breeders online before proceeding to talk to them. Never get puppies from puppy mills, farms, or online. You can conduct research and read more about their service and reviews from other customers. This crossbreed has a high demand, so it should not be too difficult to find a reputable breeder near you.

Whether you choose to purchase or adopt, ensure that you can schedule to meet your puppy first before finalizing your transactions. Seeing them in person is one of the things that can guarantee and help you decide if this mixed breed is a good match for you. Check out some of these breeders and organizations to start your search.

• Greenfield Puppies, PA
• www.SavingGreatAnimals.org
• www.AdoptAPet.com
• www.Pets4Homes.co.uk

Grooming Your Husky Mixed with Akita

The Akita Huskies may have a tendency to drool and can be a mess sometimes because of their shedding. They require moderate to high efforts in terms of grooming. Their rough, dense coats may shed seasonally or all year, depending on the climate in your location. In much cooler places, they can shed a bit less. You would need to brush them a few times each week to remove dirt and keep their fur shiny.

Brush them more frequently, at least 3-4 times a week to help manage or reduce shedding during the changing of seasons. Use a brush with firm bristles for the best result. Give them a bath occasionally or when it is required, particularly when they get messy. Too much bathing may dry out their skin and cause infection or other skin problems. Dry shampoo may also be useful to help you avoid washing them repeatedly.

Their teeth should be brushed daily. Check their ears regularly for debris and wax build up. Every once or twice a month, you’ll need to have their nails clipped to avoid nail splitting and overgrowth which can be painful to them.

Akita Combined with Husky Health Problems

Like any other breeds, the Husky Akita Mix can develop health issues that are commonly found on both their parent breeds. Most inherited generic diseases are unavoidable; that is why it is most vital to get a puppy that has been screened of these diseases. Looking at their parents’ medical history can also provide you with more insight on what you can expect from their puppies.

A Husky combined with Akita can live as long as 11 to 15 years. Due to their large size, this hybrid may develop some issues related to bones, most specifically hip dysplasia, which may occur when they are old. They may also be prone to:

1. Bloat – This condition is a common condition that is serious and can be deadly. It occurs when the dog’s stomach is filled with gas, fluid, or food which makes it expand. It puts pressure on to other organs which can lead to problems with breathing, tearing of the stomach walls, or blocking blood flow to the heart.
2. Obesity – The Akita mixed with Husky are large and energetic dogs that have big appetites. If they don’t get enough exercise or become inactive, your dog can become obese. Having excess weight can have an adverse effect on their organ’s health, exacerbate medical conditions, and shorten their life span.
   
3. Eye Issues – Like their Husky parents, this mixed breed can also be susceptible to eye conditions that can be quite painful and later cause blindness if not given proper medical attention. Some of these issues are Cataracts, Glaucoma, and Corneal dystrophy.
4. Skin Disease – Akitas are prone to skin diseases like Sebaceous Adenitis. It causes alopecia, matted hair, mild scaling, secondary bacterial infection, etc. It can be prevented by frequent brushing, washing using antibacterial products, and others.
5. Hypothyroidism – This is caused by the inflammation or reduction of the thyroid gland. It has serious effects like mental dullness, weight gain, obesity, excess shedding, and skin, ear, infections, among many. Without treatment, it can be fatal.

Husky Akitas Food Requirements

Each dog has different dietary requirements. What is similar about them is that they need a well-balanced, healthy meal, and when it comes to high-quality kibble, there are some of the best dry dog food brands that deliver on their promises. These large muscular dogs require 4 – 5 cups of high-quality of some of the best large breed dry dog food, divided into 2 -3 separate meals. This much kibble should reflect the amount of exercise they have during the day.

Always pay close attention to what they eat and steer clear of the worst dry dog food. Instead, you can choose health-beneficial types such as Wellness Core Dog Food or Dog For Dog Food.

Keeping the amount of food and weight in check is crucial to prevent obesity. There are food additions like Nutra Thrive dog food supplement that will help your pooch maintain a healthy balance of vitamins, minerals, and other “superfoods.”

Giving them only food of the highest quality, regardless of Akita Husky mix’s age, is one of the prerequisites for fighting disease. Since they are pups, these pooch’s should be given the best puppy food brands available. When they get wiser and older, switching to best senior dry dog food will be more suitable for their brittle bones.

Husky Akita combos are large dogs and their dietary needs may be different than smaller breeds’, which is why knowing the difference between best large breed dry dog food and best dry dog food for small dogs can sometimes mean a great deal for the health of your pooch.

Akita Husky Mix Exercise Requirements

The Husky combined with Akita has an above average energy level. Giving them ample and regular exercise can keep them healthy and well-behaved. They would need to be outside for a minimum of 45 to 90 minutes each day. These dogs would want to go on long walks for at least 14 miles every week. You can also take them with you on hikes or running.

Exercise and play help a lot in eradicating aggression, chewing, barking, and other destructive behaviors. They are much content in living in houses with huge fenced-in outdoor space. Being independent gives them the tendency to wander. You can also teach them to entertain themselves using these tools:

• JW Pet Hol-ee Roller X Extreme Dog Toy – This dog toy can keep your Akita Huskies busy for a while. It is a durable chew toy that challenges your dog physically as well as mentally.
• KONG Jump’N Jack Dog Toy – Play fetch with your dog using this sturdy toy which you can fill with treats for extra fun.
• Nylabone FlexiChew Bone – These are good for chewing with some added benefit of dental care.

Husky Akitas Training

Timing is awfully important when it comes to training your Husky combined with Akita. Training should begin on their first day in your home, and it should be regular and consistent. Their independence, anxiety, and aggression need to be under control while they are still young. Leaving them untrained and undisciplined can encourage these bad behaviors, and you might end up dealing with greater problems.

These smart and energetic dogs can be easily trainable if given the right approach and with the right skills. Getting rid of their excess energy can help make them more compliant and agreeable. So, the next time you want to start training your dog, begin with a long walk or any exercise. Here are a few tips for training your Akita mixed with Husky:

• Importance of Socializing
  This hybrid has protective and aggressive instincts that compel them to be wary of strangers and be watchful of threats. It is a brave and noble trait, but it can become a problem. As owners, what you can do is to ensure that they get properly socialized from the very beginning.
  Starting in their early days as pups will be easier for you to introduce them to strangers and unfamiliar settings or scenarios. Sitting in the same room with people unfamiliar to them will teach them to acknowledge that these people are not a threat to you or your dog. Later on, you can introduce them to other pets in your household. This is also important as they may show some aggression towards other animals, other dogs, or alphas.
  
• The Obedience Training
  Obedience training will be your stepping stone towards teaching your dog tricks and commands. You can teach your dog how to follow you on command. This will teach them to pay attention and follow your steps each time whether indoors or outdoors, leash or no leash. If you are not very skillful or proficient to this training, you can enter your dog to an obedience class.
• Teaching Them Discipline
  Being consistent with their training is the key to eliminating negative behaviors with this mixed breed. You have to be calm and have lots of patience to see any results. They can be quite stubborn and may have a tendency to test your dominance. It is a challenge. However, it is very important.
  Begin your training as soon as possible, while they are still young. You can seek help from a professional to work on their aggression, and other destructive behavior if needed.

Akita Mixed with Husky and Families

The Husky Akita Mix is a brave, intelligent, playful, and very loyal companion. These large, intimidating dogs are perfect guard dogs. They are alert and very protective of their owner and can be wary of strangers. Even though they can be aggressive, with proper training and socialization, they are quite good with children.

Families with an active lifestyle and a home with access to a backyard will be the best set-up for them. If you can take them out for their regular exercise, they can also be quite content living in an apartment. These dogs are also a great match for those who live alone, as they can be most loyal with a single owner.

This hybrid is a powerful and sturdy dog that has a strong personality. They are independent and may test you from time to time. This cross may not be best for new dog owners. You need a bit of experience taking care of powerful breeds like this. If not, you can always consult with a professional for help with this breed.

References:

1. Zhao, X., et al. “A Genome-Wide Association Study for Canine Cryptorchidism in Siberian Huskies.” Journal of Animal Breeding and Genetics, vol. 131, no. 3, 25 Nov. 2013, pp. 202–209., doi:10.1111/jbg.12064.
2. Ogawa, Eri, and Sakurako Neo. “Akita Dogs Possess GLUT1 in Erythrocytes, and Na,K-ATPase Activity Enables More Efficient Ascorbic Acid Recycling.” Journal of Veterinary Medical Science, vol. 78, no. 10, 2016, pp. 1557–1561., doi:10.1292/jvms.16-0119.
3. Morgan, Diane. Siberian Huskies for Dummies. Wiley Publishing, 2001.
4. Kajiwara, Naoto. Akita. Japan Kennel Club, 1998.
5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akita_(dog)
6. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Husky