Akita Chow

The Akita Chow is the name of a breed of dogs that has been developed by crossing the Japanese ‘Akita’ with the Chinese ‘Chow Chow’. These are large-sized dogs having much similarity in appearance and demeanor with both its parents. Akita Chows have a roundish face, and are covered with dense hair, have almond-eyes, a black nose tip, erect ears, and a strong, compact body. These dogs are known for their dedication and commitment towards their owners.

Akita Chow Pictures

Temperament and Behavior

Very much like its parents, the Akita Chow is independent and can even be obstinate. It is intelligent, and is very loyal and possessive of its owners but not overly affectionate though.

In fact, they are not the type that would jump on its owner and lick his face. But their protective nature is revealed through their dominant behavior.

For this very simple reason, they are also not too much comfortable with strangers, showing aggression towards them if not well socialized.

However, they are otherwise friendly, and even makes good friends with the kids in its family.

Training

Training might not be easy for these big, obstinate breed. Start a reward-based training program with positive reinforcement with your pup right away, the moment you bring it home, but without using force.

Socialize your pup first with a small group before you introduce it to a large group. For that, your touch, treats, rewards work best. This will not merely reinforce your dog for displaying positive behavior, but also help it learn to be accepting and friendly towards other dogs and humans.

Importantly, teach your dog to be obedient. For that, begin with training your pup to accept you lead it, as it follows your footsteps. A follower puppy learns to feel secure since it knows there is someone else (its pack leader) who is in charge of it, and thinks twice before displaying any abominable behavior.

If you think the basic behavior of your dog is way too aggressive towards other dogs, cats, non-canines, etc., since childhood (despite leash training), grow a habit in your dog that it accepts staying inside a securely fenced yard, when not on leash.

Diet/Feeding

The Akita chows, like their parents, are big dogs, and the diet can be scheduled accordingly. Make sure it gets the perfect nutrition that is a must for active doggies of its size, in general.

Interesting Facts

• Back in 2009, a male Akita Chow named ‘Hachi’, left with 60% burns, was rescued by firefighters from an auto shop. Later, many people showed interest in adoption after it was cured in an animal hospital. Eventually, no one actually came forward, until it was decided to euthanize the dog for lack of space in the animal county shelter it was living in. Finally, after almost 2 years, one named Faith Summerson adopted it, and kept it in her rescue organization.