Aki-Poo

The Aki-poo is a cross between the Akita and the Poodle. They are moderately big size dogs that have close resemblance to their Akita parents. They usually have a sturdy, fit body, often having a dark muzzle, small eyes, but can have either erect or hanging ears. Their tails are curly and fluffy, while the whole body is covered with short to medium hair.

Aki-Poo Pictures

Temperament and Behavior

Very much like the poodle, the aki-poo makes an affectionate pet that is also devoted and loyal. It has also inherited the intelligent nature of both its parents.

With their bold and sturdy nature Akita-like nature, they would perceive the impending dangers to their owner and his family.

Just like the akitas like to take charge, which, in turn, came down from their wolf ancestry, aki-poos might as well be protective of their families, making them a good watch and guard dog.

If they take more towards the poodle’s side, they might be vocal, but not extensive barkers.

They are lively, easygoing and playful, and would spend a good play time with children, and with the fellow pets in its family, especially when properly socialized.

However, like the Akitas, they might not always be very comfortable with younger kids, especially if not raised together.

Training

Begin teaching your pup when they are between 8 and 12 weeks old, since it is then that they are most receptive to basic commands. Train them to hold patience and under no circumstances should they be allowed to show dominance. Eat before your aki-poo, and let it wait. This would help it get the idea that, it’s you who is the ‘top dog’, and it needs to wait for its turn.

Train your aki poo to socialize and be tolerant with younger kids. Load your pocket with tasty doggie snacks and take your puppy to places where there are children of all ages – especially the children’s parks, child-oriented stores, etc. Kids often feel gravitated towards pups. Give them the snacks to offer to your puppy, or ask one or two of them to lightly give an itch or two. Relax on the benches in children’s park, and let your pup watch things around.

If you discover your puppy has a tendency to bark, do not yell at it to make it stop. Since, this might sound like you are barking with it. Instead, you should initially get your pup acquainted to the ‘speak’ command, and then the ‘quiet’ command. This would easily show your pup the difference between ‘noise’ and ‘silence’.

Akipoos often inherit the hunting and herding instincts from their Akita parents, and hence, they would easily pickup game tricks like fetching, swimming, tugging, etc.

Diet and Feeding

Being almost the size of the Akita, a diet schedule similar to dogs of this built is recommended. Make sure your energetic dog gets lots of protein and high-energy through its daily meals.