The Akita Chow is an intriguing mixed breed dog, resulting from the cross between an Akita Inu and a Chow Chow. These large, independent, and loyal dogs boast some of the best traits from both of their parent breeds, making them an attractive choice for many dog enthusiasts.
With an imposing stature and a dense, medium-length double coat that comes in various colors, these dogs have captivated the hearts of many pet owners.
In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the Akita Chow so you can decide if it’s the right dog for you!
Origin & History
The ancestry of the Akita Chow can be traced back to its parent breeds – the Akita and the Chow Chow.
Akita
The Akita originated in the mountains of northern Japan and has a long history of service as a hunting and fighting dog.
Its storied past saw it as a companion to samurai from the 1500s to the 1800s, and it was even involved in dog fighting, which was a popular activity in Japan at the time. In 1931, the Japanese government designated the Akita as a “natural monument,” acknowledging its cultural significance in their history.
Chow Chow
On the other hand, the Chow Chow hails from China, where it is believed to be one of the oldest dog breeds still in existence today. Known for their distinct blue-black tongue and lion-like mane, the Chow Chow served various roles in Chinese history, including hunting dogs, guard dogs, and companions to nobility.
The Akita Chow, a mix of these two breeds, is not only a resilient and powerful dog but also an intelligent and loyal companion, making it a popular choice as a guard dog and family pet.
Due to the Akita’s status as a national treasure in Japan and the Chow Chow’s deep roots in Chinese history, the Akita Chow dog breed carries a rich cultural heritage and a fascinating blend of both ancient Japanese and Chinese lineages.
Appearance and Characteristics
The Akita Chow is a large, sturdy dog breed with a muscular build and powerful stance, showcasing strength and determination.
The coat of an Akita Chow is dense, with a double coat that effectively protects it from harsh weather conditions. The undercoat is soft and thick, while the outer coat consists of coarser, straighter hairs. This combination of layers gives the Akita Chow its signature full, fluffy appearance, particularly around the neck and chest.
Akita Chows come in an array of colors, including red, black, white, brown, fawn, and silver. Some may even have a combination of these colors in their coats. Each individual dog’s coloring and appearance may vary depending on their genetics.
The head of an Akita Chow is broad and somewhat bear-like, with erect, triangular ears and expressive, dark, almond-shaped eyes. Their tail is another distinguishing feature, typically curling over their back in a manner similar to their Akita Inu ancestry.
This breed’s height typically ranges between 23-25 inches, while its weight can vary between 88-145 pounds, with males generally being larger and heavier than females.
Personality and Temperament
The Akita Chow is often known for its loyal and protective nature, which makes it an excellent guard dog. They are naturally inclined to be watchful and territorial, ensuring the safety of their family and property.
In terms of temperament, the Akita Chow displays a strong sense of independence. While they can be affectionate and friendly with their close family members, they might not necessarily seek constant attention or companionship. This independent streak can also make them somewhat willful and obstinate when it comes to training and obedience.
Socialization plays a significant role in shaping the Akita Chow’s attitude toward strangers and other animals. They may exhibit an aloof demeanor around unfamiliar people, preferring to assess the situation cautiously before warming up to them.
Socialization and Training
Shaping Personality
Socialization is a crucial aspect of raising an Akita Chow, as it helps shape their personality and behavior towards people and other animals. Starting socialization early in their puppyhood is highly recommended, as this will help prevent any undesirable traits from developing.
A well-socialized Akita Chow is more likely to respond positively to new situations, making them easier to handle and enjoyable companions.
Training Behavior
Training an Akita Chow requires patience, consistency, and a strong understanding of their innate intelligence. Establishing yourself as the pack leader early in the training process will aid in achieving better obedience training results.
Positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewards and praise, will help keep the Akita Chow engaged and motivated during training sessions.
Due to their intelligence, it is essential to provide mental stimulation for the Akita Chow, as well as physical exercise. This can come in the form of puzzle toys, obedience training, and games that encourage problem-solving. Energetic activities, like brisk walks and play sessions, will help maintain their physical health and channel their energy productively.
Care and Grooming
The Akita Chow has a thick, double coat that is relatively easy to groom but requires regular maintenance. To ensure proper care, brush their coat three to four times a week. This routine will help to remove any loose hairs, prevent matting, and keep their skin healthy.
In addition to brushing, bathing is an essential aspect of Akita Chow care. This dog breed can be bathed as frequently as weekly or at least once every 6 weeks, depending on the individual dog and their activity level. When bathing, make sure to wet their waterproof coat thoroughly. A helpful tip is to run your hands through the fur to ensure it is sufficiently soaked before applying shampoo.
One noteworthy element in the Akita Chow’s coat care is managing their undercoat, which sheds seasonally. During shedding seasons, it’s crucial to increase the frequency of brushing to minimize loose hairs and maintain a cleaner environment for both the dog and their owners.
When keeping the Akita Chow’s coat clean and well-groomed, it’s vital to adhere to the following guidelines:
- Utilize a slicker brush or de-shedding tool for effective brushing
- Take care to remove any dirt, debris, and tangles during brushing
- Check their ears regularly for cleanliness and signs of infection
- Trim their nails every few weeks to maintain a comfortable length
Proper care and grooming of an Akita Chow are essential to keep its distinctive coat healthy, clean, and looking its best. Regular brushing, bathing, and attention to other grooming needs will ensure that the dog remains happy and well-maintained.
Diet and Feeding
Food Type
Feeding an Akita Chow a complete and balanced dry or wet dog food is essential. Some owners opt for high-quality commercial food or raw food diets, which can help prevent common health issues such as obesity, joint problems, dental and digestive issues, and allergies. It’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best diet plan for your Akita Chow.
Avoiding Obesity
To avoid obesity, it’s important to monitor an Akita Chow’s food intake and adjust portions according to their age, weight, and activity levels. A general guideline is to divide their daily food intake into two meals, ensuring that they are not overfed or underfed. Keep an eye on their weight and energy level as an indicator of whether their diet is appropriate.
Feeding Routine
It’s essential to be consistent with feeding times and create a routine for your Akita Chow. Puppies require more frequent meals during their first year to support their growth and development. As they grow and become adults, adjust their meal plan accordingly. Make sure fresh water is always available to keep your furry companion well-hydrated.
Remember to be cautious with treats and human food, as too many treats or inappropriate foods can lead to obesity and other health issues. Be selective when offering treats and rewards, ensuring you do not disrupt their balanced diet.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Physical Exercise
Exercise is a crucial aspect of an Akita Chow’s daily routine. This breed has moderate energy levels, so they require regular physical activity to maintain their overall health.
A daily walk or moderate playtime in the backyard can be sufficient for fulfilling their exercise needs. It’s important to monitor their energy levels and adjust the intensity of physical activities as needed.
Mental Stimulation
Mental stimulation plays a significant role in an Akita Chow’s well-being. As an intelligent breed, they thrive when their minds are engaged in activities that promote problem-solving and cognitive challenges.
Incorporating brain games, agility training, or even puzzle toys into their routine can help keep their minds sharp and prevent boredom, which can lead to destructive behaviors.
To ensure the happiness of an Akita Chow, a balance between exercise and mental stimulation is necessary. For instance, combining a daily walk with interactive playtime or training sessions can provide both physical activity and mental challenges.
Compatibility With Children and Other Pets
Akita Chows and Children
In terms of children, Akitas are known to be empathetic and can be great with kids. When raised with them, Akita Chows can adapt well to their presence and form strong bonds with the family.
However, these dogs may not be as playful as other breeds, which means they might not tolerate rough play from young children. As a result, the Akita Chow is generally more suited for families with older children who can understand and respect the dog’s boundaries.
Adult supervision is recommended during interactions between the Akita Chow and children, as well as teaching children proper behavior around dogs. This will ensure both the safety of the child and the welfare of the dog.
Akita Chows and Pets
When it comes to other household pets, the Akita Chow’s compatibility can be more challenging. Generally, Akitas are protective and might not exhibit friendly behaviors towards other animals initially.
They can sometimes be aggressive towards other dogs, particularly if not raised with them or properly socialized early in life. Consequently, the Akita Chow may not be the best choice as a companion dog in a household with multiple pets unless they have undergone extensive training and socialization.
Health Issues
Hip Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia is a common health problem in many large breeds, including the Akita Chow. This condition occurs when the hip joint does not develop correctly, causing joint instability, pain, and eventually arthritis.
Early detection and intervention by a veterinarian can help manage the condition and minimize its impact on the dog’s quality of life.
Gastric Torsion
Another health concern for Akita Chows is the risk of Bloat or Gastric Torsion. This life-threatening condition is prevalent in deep-chested dogs and occurs when the stomach twists upon itself.
Symptoms of bloat include a swollen abdomen, excessive drooling, and attempts to vomit without success. Emergency veterinary care is crucial in addressing this condition and saving the dog’s life.
Entropion
The Akita Chow’s eyes are also susceptible to health problems. Entropion, a condition in which the eyelid rolls inward, is fairly common. This can lead to irritation, pain, and damage to the cornea if left untreated.
A veterinarian can recommend several treatment options depending on the severity of the condition.
Adoption and Breeders
If you’re looking to adopt an Akita Choa, first begin by researching reputable breeders or adoption centers within your area.
Adopting an Akita Chow from a responsible breeder ensures the puppy comes from a healthy background and their parents meet the breed standards. Alternatively, adopting from a rescue organization provides a loving home to an Akita Chow in need.
When searching for an Akita Chow, ask the breeders or adoption centers about the dog’s temperament, health, and previous living conditions. Since these dogs can inherit traits from both Akita Inu and Chow Chow, their personalities may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the temperament of an Akita Chow mix?
An Akita Chow mix is generally known for its independent, intelligent, and protective nature. While they can be affectionate and loyal family members, they may also display aggression towards other dogs outside of their family. With proper socialization and training, they can be well-adjusted companions.
How much does an Akita Chow mix typically cost?
The cost of an Akita Chow mix can vary depending on factors such as the breeder, location, and availability of puppies. On average, prices can range from $500 to $2000 or more. It’s essential to research and choose a responsible breeder to ensure you’re getting a healthy and well-bred puppy.
What is the lifespan of an Akita Chow?
The Akita Chow has an average life span of 10-14 years. However, given the heath conditions the breed is prone to, this lifespan may be much shorter. This is why it is crucial to do your research and seek veterinarian care and advice in ensuring the health of your dog.
Is the Akita Chow mix suitable for families with children?
With proper socialization, training, and supervision, an Akita Chow mix can be a good companion for families with children. However, due to their large size and protective instincts, it’s essential to teach both the dog and the children how to interact respectfully and safely.
Families should also consider the Akita Chow mix’s potential for dog aggression when deciding if this breed is a suitable choice.
What are the grooming requirements for an Akita Chow mix?
An Akita Chow mix will have a medium-length double coat that typically requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and neat. Brushing the coat at least once a week helps remove dead hair and prevent matting.
During shedding seasons, more frequent brushing may be necessary. Additionally, regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care are essential for maintaining overall health.
Wrapping up the Akita Chow
The Akita Chow is a sturdy and powerful dog that can enhance any family it joins! However, caring for an Akita Chow requires knowledge of their specific needs, such as proper socialization, training, grooming, and diet.
These dogs can make excellent companions for families and individuals who are willing to invest time and effort in meeting their needs and building a strong bond.
For more information about other mix breeds, check out our Dog Breeds hub here at All Paws!