Origin History of the Akita Bernard:
The origin history of the Akita Bernard is rooted in two separate canine breeds that originated in different parts of the world.
The Akita, a Japanese breed, was originally used as a guard dog for royalty and for hunting wild boar. It was first brought to the United States as a gift to Helen Keller, who owned the first two Akitas in America.
Meanwhile, the Saint Bernard is believed to have been brought to the Swiss Alps by the Romans, where they were used as companions and to rescue people trapped in avalanches.
The Akita Bernard is a mixed breed that combines the best traits of its parents. It is a large breed, often surpassing 100 pounds, and is usually a variation of tan and white, although any color combination can be contributed by the parent breeds. They are loyal and loving and enjoy spending time with their human family. This breed is also highly energetic and may suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for too long.
Akita Bernard Appearance:
The Akita Bernard is a large and powerful breed, typically weighing over 100 pounds. They are usually a variation of tan and white, although the exact color combination will depend on the parent breeds that contributed to the mix.
This breed has an impressive stature, with a broad head, muscular body, and thick fur. Their eyes are usually brown and they have a strong, alert expression. Their coat is usually medium to long in length, and they have a double coat, which helps protect them from the elements. They have a plume-like tail that curls over their back and their feet are large and strong. Combine it all together and the Akita Bernard is an impressive-looking pooch that is sure to turn heads.
Diet and Nutrition:
When it comes to diet and nutrition needs for the Akita Bernard, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian for specific advice on the best food for your pup. However, generally speaking, they should be fed a diet that is consistent with that of a large-sized breed with high energy levels. They’ll need high-quality dry kibble that is rich in protein, healthy fats, and vitamins and minerals. Avoid any food with fillers or artificial ingredients, as this can be detrimental to their health.
In addition, since Akita Bernards can be prone to obesity, it’s important to be mindful of the amount of food you give them. Be sure to monitor their weight regularly and adjust their food intake accordingly. It’s also beneficial to supplement their diet with healthy treats in moderation.
Enriching toys like puzzle feeders and filled bones can also be great for the Akita Bernard. These toys can help to stimulate their minds and provide them with mental and physical stimulation. Make sure to rotate the toys often to keep them engaged and interested.
Overall, providing your dog with a balanced and nutritious diet is essential to their overall health and well-being. By consulting your veterinarian and following the recommended guidelines, you can ensure that your pup is getting the best nutrition for their needs.
Common Health Issues Affecting Akita Bernards:
Some Health Issues affecting Akita Bernards can include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and patellar luxation. As with any large breed, it’s important to be aware of the risks of bloat or gastric torsion.
Other ailments affecting Akita Bernards can include hypothyroidism, progressive retinal atrophy, and von Willebrand’s disease, so it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of these conditions and have regular checkups with your veterinarian. It’s also important to be aware that this breed is prone to skin allergies, so it’s important to groom regularly and keep an eye out for signs of skin irritation or infection.
Interesting Facts about Akita Bernards:
Akita Bernards are a relatively new breed, and there are lots of interesting facts to learn about them! Here are some of the most interesting things to know about Akita Bernards:
• The Akita Bernard is a hybrid breed, the result of crossing an Akita with a Saint Bernard. The Akita parent breed is known for its independence and loyalty, while the Saint Bernard is known for its calm, gentle, and affectionate nature.
• The Akita Bernard is a large breed, often reaching over 100 pounds. They are usually a variation of tan and white but can have any color combination contributed by the parent breeds.
• While they are often good-natured and loving, they also have high energy and can be overprotective. The Akita Bernard is prone to guarding behavior, which may manifest in nuisance barking, growling, or lunging without training.
• This breed is incredibly loyal and enjoys spending time with their dog parents. They are also prone to separation anxiety, so it’s important to work on socialization and give them plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
• The Akita Bernard is a hybrid of two breeds that have long histories. Akitas date back to ancient Japan and were originally used for hunting and guarding. Saint Bernards have a much more recent history, dating back to the late 1700s, and were originally bred to rescue travelers in the Swiss Alps.
Where to Adopt or Buy:
Adopting or buying an Akita Bernard can be a bit of a challenge as they are not a common breed. However, if you are looking for a new pup to add to your family, it’s worth the effort to find one.
The best place to start is with a local rescue organization. Many rescues will have a variety of mixed-breed dogs, and you may even find an Akita Bernard in their care. If you don’t have luck with a rescue, the next best option is to look for a responsible breeder. Ask friends and family for recommendations and do your research!
Make sure the breeder is reputable and puts the health and well-being of their pups first. You may also have luck searching for an Akita Bernard through online forums and pet-specific websites. Many breeders advertise their puppies for sale, but be sure to ask them questions about their breeding practices and the health of their puppies.
Lastly, you may even find an Akita Bernard in your local newspaper or on social media. If you can’t find one locally, consider a rescue or breeder in another area of the country. However, keep in mind that this will incur additional costs such as transport and vet bills. Remember, no matter where you get your pup, it’s important to make sure they are coming from a responsible source.
Conclusion:
The Akita Bernard is an incredibly loyal and loving breed, despite their tendency to be overprotective and high-energy. They are the perfect companion for a stay-at-home worker who can provide them with the daily exercise and attention they need. Socialization is essential for this breed, as they can be wary of strangers or other dogs. It’s important to introduce them carefully and with lots of positive reinforcement.
With the right training and consistency, the Akita Bernard can make for a great family pet. Their size and protective nature also make them a perfect candidate for a guard dog.
FAQ:
Q: What is an Akita Bernard?
A: An Akita Bernard is a hybrid breed created by crossing an Akita and a St. Bernard. This breed is large and strong, with a friendly and loyal temperament. They are often tan and white in color and can weigh up to 100 pounds.
Q: How much exercise does an Akita Bernard need?
A: Akita Bernards have a lot of energy and require lots of exercise. They should have a minimum of one hour of exercise per day, including long walks and playtime.
Q: What is the life expectancy of an Akita Bernard?
A: The life expectancy of an Akita Bernard is between 8-12 years.
Q: How do I socialize my Akita Bernard?
A: Socialization is key to having a friendly and well-mannered Akita Bernard. Introduce your pup to new people, animals, and places in a calm and positive manner. Allow them to take their time to get used to new surroundings and be sure to reward them for good behavior.
Q: Is an Akita Bernard easy to train?
A: Akita Bernards are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. However, they can be stubborn and require patience and consistency. Start training early and use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage good behavior.
