A guide and overview with a lot of tips for new and existing owners of Aki-poo Doodle Dogs. An Aki-poo, also known as an Akita Poodle Mix, is a crossbreed dog that is a hybrid of an Akita and a Standard Poodle.

History of Aki-poo Doodle Dogs

The Akita is one of the oldest native dog breeds in Japan. The breed was originally developed to hunt big game. They were highly prized and only owned by the nobility.

The original Akita breed was small to medium-sized. Over time, the breed was crossed with larger breeds, like Mastiffs, to create a larger, more robust dog.

The Akita breed went through a period of near extinction during World War II. Many dogs were killed for their fur, which was used for military clothing. There was also a government order to capture all non-military dogs to prevent the spread of disease during wartime. To save the breed, some owners released their Akitas into the mountains, while others tried to disguise them as German Shepherds.

After the war, the Akita breed varied greatly in size, color, and type due to cross-breeding with other dogs during the war.  Helen Keller introduced akitas to the United States in 1937. Today, there are two types of Akitas: the American, called the “Akita Shep,” and the Japanese Akita Inu, which has a smaller, fox-like face.

Akitas and Standard Poodles were bred to create a hybrid called “Aki-poo”.  Today, they are extremely rare. They have unique characteristics and are appreciated for their noble appearance, strength, and loyalty.

Selecting an Aki-poo Doodle Dog

With the Aki-poo’s Japanese heritage as a protector in noble families, they make an excellent guard dog or family companion.  They are possessive and can be very strong-willed. They may be wary of other dogs or strangers.

An Aki-poo needs daily exercise. They are not the best choice for a first-time owner or for apartment living.  A large fenced yard would be a good environment. When considering an Aki-poo as a family dog, they can be great with older children, but caution is necessary for younger ages.  The breed can be nippy and loud.  This also applies when they are around small dogs and other pets.

An Aki-poo enjoys indoor and outdoor games such as tug of war or fetch.  They like open spaces and agility activities.  An hour’s hike or walk daily is a good routine for their excessive energy.

Overall, they have wonderful attributes.  Because of their Akita heritage, they are a good choice for a one-dog family.  In the rare instance that a rescue dog is available, be sure to work with a trainer and encourage early socialization.

12 Tips for Socializing Doodle Dogs

Size and Life Span of Aki-poos

An Aki-poo is a large dog.  Their height can be up to 28” at the shoulder.  Their weight can range from 60 to 120 pounds.  The female size is slightly smaller.

Akitas live to be 10 to 15 years old.  Standard poodles live to be 10 to 18 years old.  Aki-poos have a life expectancy within these ranges.

Benefits of Pet Insurance

Health and Maintenance of Aki-poos

Both Akitas and Poodles are strong and healthy breeds. Health issues can arise from either parent or both parents.  Ones to consider are Hip Dysplasia, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Addison’s Disease, Hypothyroidism, autoimmune disorders, and Skin disorders.

Maintaining good health in an Aki-poo involves regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, plenty of exercise, and good dental hygiene.  If you’re getting an Aki-poo from a breeder, make sure the breeder has done health testing on the parent dogs. This can help reduce the risk of inherited health problems.

Remember, this information provides a guideline; each dog is unique and may have individual health concerns. Always consult with a veterinarian for the most accurate advice.

Required vaccines for Doodle Dogs

Personality and Behavioral Traits of Aki-poo

An Aki-poo can inherit the traits and personalities of either of its parent’s breeds.

 A purebred Akita is very loyal and has strong protective instincts. They are affectionate with family and aloof with strangers.  They can be stubborn and need consistent training.  They may not get along well with other pets because of their strong hunting instincts.

A Poodle is highly active, agile, and intelligent.  They often excel at obedience training.  They are great with other pets and children, but can be prone to anxiety if left alone for a long time.

Free online workshop to train your Aki-poo to behave like a well-trained service dog.

Nutrition and Diet for Aki-poos

It is essential to choose high-quality dog food appropriate for the large size and activity level of your Aki- Poo. It’s also important to consider any specific health concerns or dietary needs.

Here are general guidelines for nutrition and feeding:

Nutrition:

• Avoid food that has artificial additives, fillers, or by-products.
• Look for food that contains balanced carbohydrates, healthy fats.  Also, look for high quality protein.
• Choose food meeting the standards of the Association of American Feed Control Officials Guidelines.

Feeding:

• Feed your Aki-poo based on their age, size, and activity level. Puppy, adult, and senior dogs have different nutritional needs.
• Puppies should be fed 4 to 6 times daily.  After they are 6 months old,switch to twice daily.
• For adult Aki-poos, you can feed them twice a day or follow your veterinarian’s recommendations.
• Adjust the food quantity depending on your dog’s specific needs, such as weight management or health concerns.
• Consult the feeding guidelines on the dog food package or consult with your veterinarian for the appropriate amount to feed your Aki-poo.
• Be mindful of treats and overfeeding. Treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.
• Always provide fresh water for your Aki-poo.

Individual Aki-poos may have unique dietary needs, and it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian to create a tailored nutrition plan for your specific dog. Regular checkups and monitoring your dog’s weight and overall health will help ensure they receive the proper nutrition for their needs.

Free Homemade Food Recipes for Doodle Dogs

Average Cost to Purchase an Aki-poo and Annual Costs

The cost to purchase an Aki-poo puppy can vary widely, depending on factors such as the breeder’s location, the lineage of the parent dogs, and the demand for puppies.  Rescue Aki-poos are difficult to find. Aki-poo puppies may not be widely available due to the rarity of this specific mix, which could potentially increase the price. Annual expenses would include Food, veterinary care, insurance, grooming, supplies, training, boarding, and pet sitting.

Costs

• Average cost to purchase an Aki-poo: $400 to $3000
• Annual expenses: $1000 to $1500

List of items to consider for your new Doodle Dog

Grooming an Aki-poo

Akitas have a thick double coat.  It may come in white, brindle, or shades of red.  Poodles have a dense, curly coat.  Colors can be black, apricot, white, cream, or silver gray.  An Aki-poo’s coat may come in any combination.

An Aki-poo with a curly coat may require regular brushing to prevent mats and professional grooming sessions about every 6 to 8  weeks .

If your Akipoo inherits the Poodle’s floppy ears, they may be more prone to ear infections because the shape of the ear can trap moisture.

Nails should be trimmed regularly.  A balanced diet and dental chews contribute to good dental health.

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We love hearing stories about how Aki-poos have brought joy and happiness to people’s lives. From providing companionship and emotional support to serving as therapy dogs, they truly make a positive difference. Please share your stories and tips for all types of Doodle Dogs!