Akitas — technically called Akita Inus — are adorable doggos who hail from Japan. But while Akitas are amazing animals in their own right, they’ve also been crossed with dozens of other dog breeds, resulting in some of the most magnificent mutts in the world!
We’ll share some of our favorite Akita mixed breeds below and explain what makes them tick. But first, let’s share some of the basic Akita facts, so you can better understand some of these wonderful woofers.
Getting To Know The Akita: Breed Basics
Before adding any mixed breed doggo to your family, you will want to familiarize yourself with the parent breeds. To help, we’ll explain some of the most important factors to understand about Akitas below.
The Akita Inu: Hound History
The ancient Akita Inu breed has protected Japan for over 10,000 years. Commonly referred to as simply “Akita”, this dog built its legacy hunting in packs and taking down everything from deer to wild boars and even bears!
Built for winter, their webbed paws allow them to be agile hunters. Their reputation has led them to become a symbol of happiness, good health and longevity in Japan. They weren’t introduced to the United States until 1937 when Helen Keller brought an Akita back from her first trip to Asia (yeah, you read that correctly).
Recently, Akita mixes have been growing in popularity in America and across the globe. Below, we’ll share some of the cutest Akita combos out there so that you can find the right furball for your family.
It’s important to understand your mutt’s parent breeds to get a window into your dog’s possible personality and temperament.
The Akita Inu: Canine Classification
The Akita is a large member of the working group, weighing anywhere between 70 and 130 pounds. This ancient breed is known as a solid family protector, with a dignified and loyal nature. Akitas span about 26 inches at the shoulder and live between 10 and 14 years.
The Akita Inu: Pupper Personality
These pups have a strong prey drive and can be independent thinkers, so they’re not recommended for homes with small pets and need experienced pet owners. Akitas are also wary of strangers, so pet parents will need to invest in plenty of socialization training.
For pet parents that understand the breed’s unique needs and boundaries, the Akita is an affectionate, loving dog. They might not open up to people outside of their family pack, but at home, the Akita is sweet and silly.
The Akita Inu: Canine Characteristics
These furry friends shed quite a bit and need plenty of exercise to keep their tails wagging. Akitas are prone to health conditions like hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy, but they are generally healthy dogs. These protective pooches make excellent watchdogs for families that understand their dignified personalities.
39 Akita Mixed Breeds! Let the Adorableness Commence!
Are you ready to meet these marvelous mutts? Without further ado, here are some adorable Akita mixes.
1. Akita x Husky Mix (Huskita)
A perfect outdoor dog, this playful and energetic mix also makes a great watchdog. It’s no surprise many people are curious about the Akita and husky mix. After all, the parent breeds of this cross both boast that striking wolf-ish appearance and adore cold weather.
You can expect any Akita-husky mix to be majestic as heck, although both breeds are known to be a bit of a challenge to train, so make sure you’re ready to put in the work and have a good trainer on call.
2. Akita x Labrador Mix (Labrakita)
Cross the energetic Labrador with the loyal Akita, and you get the lovely Akita Labrador. With a high prey drive, these pups might not be the best pick for multi pet households, but they seem to do well one-on-one with humans. Just don’t make it a habit of inviting too many guests over as Labrakita’s won’t respond well to this.
They’ll have a very thick double coat and the tail may or may not curl like the Akita’s!
3. Akita x Saint Bernard Mix
What do you get when you mix two large breeds? Large bones, for one. The Akita Bernard is a cuddly canine companion that is incredibly loyal and loves his human family.
This very strong dog is fit for more experienced dog owners as it typically grows to over 100 pounds and lives for more than 10 years. They don’t do well alone but rather prefer to hang with a pack of humans or other dogs.
4. Akita x Newfoundland Mix
You can’t help but fall for the adorable Akita Newfoundland. This mutt mix is quite energetic and even a bit quirky.
They usually love other dogs and are very outdoorsy. Owners report that they can be extremely friendly (that’s the Newfoundland blood) or quite independent (the Akita).
5. Akita x German Shepherd Mix (Shepkita)
The Akita-German-shepherd mix can be quite serious but they make for great companions. Many owners believe the strength of the German shepherd and the temperament of the Akita make for an ideal combination. But make sure you have a fence as Akita Shepherds tend to be roamers and wanderers.
Both parent breeds are highly intelligent and tenacious, so you can expect this breed combo to be on par, if not above average when it comes to intelligence. The Shepherd Akita mix needs an experienced dog owner to understand this unique canines’ needs.
6. Akita x Staffordshire Bull Terrier Mix
Mixing an Akita with a Staffordshire bull terrier results in one cute, if somewhat intimidating canine — at least to strangers. But when he’s hanging out with his peeps, this little guy is likely to be little more than a bundle of love and pup kisses!
In actuality, the Staffy influence will likely make these puppers friendlier than typical purebred Akitas are, though early and frequent socialization are still crucial.
7. Akita x Chow Chow Mix
Japanese and Chinese breeds combine to make this loyal Akita Chow. This Akita-Chow combo will likely be on the bigger side, and isn’t going to be a dog you want to mess with! This canine combo will likely posses an impressive large bark, and coming from two long-haired parent breeds, you can expect this pooch to have all the fluff!
Be aware that both the Akita and chow chow are known for being considerably aloof, so we wouldn’t suggest this breed if you want a clingy cuddle buddy (the same is potentially true for many chow chow mixes). These dogs can be quite strong-willed if not trained when young and their thick coat requires frequent grooming.
8. Akita x Corgi Mix
The Akita and corgi mix is sure to be one of the cutest pups you’ll see! Depending on the lineage, you could end up with a dog that has the build of an Akita, or perhaps takes on more low-to-the-ground, stocky corgi physique.
The Akita corgi hybrid could end up looking like either breed (or like a little happy hybrid mishmash of both). Either way, you can expect this hybrid to be a real spitfire!
9. Akita x Poodle Mix (Akipoo)
While Akitas are known for being heavy shedders, poodles shed very little, which means this canine combo is worthy of consideration for owners who don’t want everything they own to be covered in fur.
Additionally, the poodle’s impressive intelligence (they’re one of the smartest dog breeds around), can help make these pooches easier to train than purebred Akitas sometimes are. Just note that these pooches will need a fair bit of exercise and mental stimulation to remain healthy and happy.
10. Akita x Pit Bull Mix (Akita Pit)
Like the Akita-Staffy mix discussed above, the Akita-Pit-Bull mix is likely to be friendlier than a purebred Akita is. However, like many pitties, these mixed-breed doggos are likely to have super-strong jaws, so you’ll want to make sure to stick to nearly indestructible dog toys that are built to last.
Because pit bulls often suffer from food allergies, you may need to experiment with different dinners for these pups. But given how cute and lovable they are, this seems like a small price to pay.
11. Akita x Shar Pei Mix
Like many of the dogs listed here, Shar Pei Akita mixes are absolutely adorable! While they can be reserved around strangers, these pupperinos often love to play with their favorite humans.
However, these canines will need plenty of socialization and training from a young age, as both parent breeds are a bit aloof and suspicious of strangers. Additionally, they tend to need a “job” to do on a daily basis, so be sure to provide your Shar Pei Akita mix with plenty of mental and physical stimulation to help prevent problematic behaviors from developing.
12. Akita x Border Collie Mix
Thanks to their border collie parent, Akita Collies need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. You’ll need to give them plenty of stuff to do or they’ll find stuff to do on their own (and it’ll likely be of the destructive or mischievous variety).
These doggos are also likely to be quite sharp, but this is a bit of a double-edged sword, as super-smart pups often present training and canine-management challenges. Accordingly, these aren’t a great breed for first-time owners.
13. Akita x Mastiff Mix
This mastiff and Akita mix stands to inherit the protective nature of the Akita and the big build of the mastiff. You can expect these mixed-breed doggos to be athletic and strong, with a tough-guy exterior and the courage to match it!
These very powerful and strong dogs may occasionally have high prey drives, so extra care is required for families who have other pets (particularly small ones). And given their eventual large size, you’ll definitely want to be sure to train these pooches well from a young age.
14. Akita x Golden Retriever Mix
It’s hard not to fall for the Akita-Golden-Retriever mix. While Akitas are admittedly somewhat aloof and independent (some may even say a bit “prickly”), golden retrievers are famous for their friendly, happy-go-lucky natures. This helps to make a canine cross that’s really easy to love.
Just note that you’ll likely spend a lot of your time cleaning up after your Akita-Golden mix, as both parent breeds are heavy shedders. And many golden retrievers have quite long hair, which only makes this problem more apparent.
Nevertheless, these canine crosses can make good pets for many families — even those with kids or other pets.
15. Akita x Rottweiler Mix
If you’re looking for a hybrid dog that is sure to turn heads, the Akita-Rottweiler mix is a great choice! However, this is not a dog for inexperienced owners, as both parent breeds are headstrong and often exceedingly protective. They’re also intelligent, assertive breeds, who will challenge unconfident owners.
But with early socialization and training, these mixed breed puppers can make wonderful family pets. Thanks to the Rottie influence, most are likely to be very affectionate and loving of their people.
16. Akita x Malamute Mix
The Akita-malamute mix is a gorgeous mixed breed dog that’s perfect for those who love fluff! It’s hard to know for sure if the Akitamute will inherit the protective nature of the Akita or the friendly disposition of the Malamute.
Either way, you can expect this Akita mix to be loyal to its family, boast an epic fur coat, and endure snowy conditions like it’s nothing. But on the flip side, these pups probably won’t enjoy living in warm climates, so think carefully about your location before adding one of these pooches to your family.
17. Boxer x Akita Mix
The Boxita that’s a mix of the boxer and Akita dog breeds may take on the color coat or look of either parent breed, so looks can vary quite a bit.
You can expect this pup to be fairly sporty and athletic. Ideally, the boxer’s friendly, easygoing nature will help temper the more confrontational nature of the Akita. However, mutt temperaments can lean towards one parent breed or the other, so be sure to meet the pups before making a choice!
18. Shiba Inu x Akita Mix
Want a Japanese-Japanese crossbreed? Well, the Akita-Shiba-Inu may be just what you’re looking for!
But it’s important to note that, while cute, these canine crosses are likely to be exceedingly independent and aloof. These aren’t going to be “Velcro” dogs, who follow you everywhere you go. They’re going to spend plenty of time just chilling on their own, investigating interesting odors, and generally watching the world go by.
But if that sounds like something you’d like, there’s no reason you should consider one of these darling doggos!
19. Great Pyrenees x Akita Mix
If you like the idea of having an Akita, but you’d like him to be a bit bigger, you may want to consider a Great-Pyrenees-Akita! Huge and hairy, these dogs are big, but they look even bigger than they really are. Unfortunately, that means you’ll want to have a good vacuum on hand, as these mixed mutts are sure to shed hair by the fistful.
Just understand that Akita-Great-Pyrenees crosses are the result of mixing two very independent dog breeds, so don’t expect a pet who’s a clinger! This mix will likely want to spend a ton of time outdoors guarding his territory and his “flock” (which may mean you and your family, as well as any other critters you have).
20. Pomeranian x Akita Mix
We’ll be honest: Some mixed breed dogs seem like canine odd-couples, and the Akita-Pomeranian-mix is no exception. It’s admittedly hard to know what to expect from these mutts, as some will undoubtedly take after their small and dainty Pomeranian parent, while others will more closely resemble their big-and-bad Akita parent.
But regardless of which parent breed your Akita-Pom-mix takes after, he’ll certainly have plenty of fur!
21. Great Dane x Akita Mix
We’ve already talked about a few big Akita mixes, but this one will likely be the biggest! After all, one of its parents — the Great Dane — is the largest dog breed in the world. So, this is a dog that’ll require lots of space, a big crate, and more food than you may imagine!
From a personality standpoint, the Great Dane parent may help mellow out the Akita parent a bit. This means that these mixes may make pretty loving and loyal family dogs for those with enough space (and enough dog-care dollars) to keep these canines comfy.
22. Chihuahua x Akita Mix
Wow, so this is another unusual choice of breeds to combine, and we’re not sure what the goal was here, but one thing’s for sure: You won’t see many Akita-Chihuahua-mixes at the local dog park!
All that aside, we worry that these crossbred cuties may be a bit of a handful, as Akitas tend to be a bit protective and assertive, while Chihuahuas can be nervous and even defensive at times. So, it is probably wise to think carefully before you bring one of these unusual mutts home.
23. Akita x Bernese Mountain Dog Mix
Cross the loyal Akita with the loving Bernese mountain dog and you get a huge teddy bear of a dog! The Berner influence will undoubtedly help make these mutts friendlier than typical Akitas, and it may even result in a dog who’s relatively affectionate.
But these pups may still be a bit standoffish around strangers, and they’re likely to be pretty big. So, early socialization is essential. You’ll also need a trusty vacuum to assist you with the magnificent mane of the Akita Bernese mountain dog mix.
24. Akita x Australian Shepherd Mix
If you’re looking for an amazing running buddy, you can’t ask for a better breed than the Akita Australian shepherd. These pups have plenty of energy and will need active owners who can keep up with them.
Australian Shepherd Akitas will likely bond closely with one or two special humans — they’re unlikely to be Lab-like in demeanor and see every stranger as a friend they’ve yet to meet. They may also be a bit tricky to train, so you may need to solicit some professional assistance.
25. Akita x Blue Heeler Mix
The Akita-Blue-Heeler mix is another unusual crossbred canine, but this one would make an excellent farmhand or watchdog. Thanks to the blue heeler influence, this is going to be one energetic canine cross, who’ll need to stay active to feel his best.
These pups aren’t cuddly couch potatoes, but they’re sure to express love through their endless loyalty. Akita Blue Heelers need experienced owners who can provide consistent, positive training sessions and understand their independent natures.
26. Akita x Cane Corso Mix
When you cross two protective pooches, you unsurprisingly get a loyal, steadfast companion that’s happy to watch over your family. Note that these dogs are massive, so you’ll need plenty of room to keep these canines comfortable.
The intelligent Akita-Cane-Corso cross will inherit some of the people-pleasing characteristics of the cane corso parent, which will make him fairly easy to train. They may, however, be strong-willed, so they need patient, experienced owners.
27. Akita x Pug Mix
The Akita-Pug is a well-balanced canine companion that’s happy to spend time wherever his family is. This breed is an amazing family dog, that will love spending time with kids and adults.
Note that the Akita-Pug will probably be much different than a typical Akita in terms of temperament. In fact, your little mutt will be likely to follow you from one room to the next, so this canine cross is great for families seeking a true companion.
Akita-Pugs appreciate plenty of playtime, so make sure you have plenty of fun toys around the house!
28. Akita x Rhodesian Mix
The Akita-Rhodesian-Ridgeback-mix is a large, dignified guardian. This rare designer dog makes an excellent pooch protector that’s incredibly loyal to his family.
These are likely to be confident, assertive dogs, so they’ll need an owner who can provide plenty of focused training sessions centered around positive reinforcement to thrive. You’ll also want to provide plenty of socialization opportunities starting at a young age.
29. Akita x Samoyed Mix
Looking for a lively canine companion? The Samoyed-Akita is a cheerful, marvelous mutt that loves spending time outdoors.
But despite being friendly thanks to the Samoyed influence, this canine cross is an excellent watch dog that is sure to alert you whenever a squirrel passes through the driveway (and, of course, anything more serious).
These pups do have a strong prey drive (Rhodesians were developed to hunt lions, after all), so they might not make the best pick for multipet households.
30. Akita x Bullmastiff Mix
If you love massive mutts, you’re sure to fall for this Akita-Bull-Mastiff-cross. These massive furry friends are natural protectors, making them amazing watch dogs.
While these calm protectors make great guardians for your family, they can be wary of strangers, so early socialization is key. Pet parents of these pooches need homes with plenty of space to accommodate for the breed’s massive size.
31. Akita x Bulldog Mix
The Akita Bulldog mix is a well-balanced companion that knows how to keep himself busy. Don’t get us wrong – these pups love cuddles, but they’re also curious enough to spend some time on their own.
Akita-Bulldog-mixes can be strong willed and need a patient owner, but if you’re up for the challenge, these peppy pooches make amazing furry family members.
32. Akita x Beagle Mix
Cross a friendly beagle with a more reserved Akita and you get a curious canine that loves his family. The Akita Beagle mix is super playful and will let you know with plenty of vocalizations when someone is approaching your doorstep.
Note that these pups can be independent thinkers, so they need patient pet parents who have plenty of training treats to help these dogs build mutt manners.
33. Akita x Catahoula Mix
This rare designer dog is a gentle, curious canine companion that will love playing with his favorie humans. While these pups aren’t the most affectionate four-footers around, they show their love through endless loyalty to their owners.
These working dogs like to keep busy and appreciate having a job to keep them occupied and stimulated throughout the day. Akita Catahoulas need early socialization and consistent training sessions to develop proper boundaries between work and play.
34. Akita x Australian Cattle Dog Mix
If you’re searching for a hard working hound, this Akita Australian Cattle Dog cross is a great pick. These designer dogs like to keep busy and are happy to watch over your home.
This marvelous mix needs lots of physical activity to feel his finest. They can also be strong-willed at times, so they will need patient pet parents who can provide plenty of training.
35. Akita x Doberman Mix
The Akita Doberman is strong yet surprisingly sensitive. With that in mind, this mix needs an experienced owner who’s happy to provide consistent, positive training sessions.
These dogs can be aloof around strangers, so early socialization is important. They bond closely with their favorite humans and are happy to dole out Doberman-sized doses of affection.
36. Akita x Jack Russell Mix
This spirited Akita terrier mix will keep you on your toes. Akita Jack Russell mixes need plenty of playtime and exercise to satisfy their boundless energy (and to help reduce the chances of them getting into mischief).
These peppy pups like to be the center of attention, so they thrive best in households where they are the sole canine companion.
37. Akita x Dalmatian Mix
This spotted sweetheart is outgoing and plenty playful. With boundless energy, these dogs need plenty of time outside to explore and exercise.
Akita Dalmatians have strong prey drives, so they might not be the best fit for homes with cats or other dogs (especially homes with tiny pets). These dogs need experienced owners who are patient with their sometimes strong-willed personalities.
38. Akita x Dachshund Mix
This dignified dog is chronically curious and will keep you entertained with his playful personality. Akita Dachshunds are always up for the next adventure and are surprisingly active, even if they inherit the Dachshund’s smaller frame.
These courageous canines make excellent watchdogs. They can be a bit strong-willed at times, so patience as a pet parent is a must.
39. Akita x Cocker Spaniel Mix
The Akita and Cocker Spaniel mix is a well-tempered cross, inheriting the more social traits from his Cocker spaniel parent. These pups are lively companions that are happy to play with anyone.
These pups can be a little aloof around strangers, but they warm up quickly with a couple of tasty training treats.
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Do you own an Akita mix yourself? Tell us which one you liked best and which ones you think missed the mark.
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5 Comments
August 1, 2019
I have a Akita /Grmnshep. She is absolutely gorgeous. Unfortunately she is getting old.I am going to try to find another breed similar is is such wonderful dog. She has really touched my life …..she is a excellent protection for our home she is allows right by myside.
May 27, 2019
Save all dogs for me.
May 11, 2019
Some of these mixes would be susceptible to some pretty terrible health and/or temperament issues. Example: Both Akitas and Standard Poodles carry a genetic disorder called sebaceous adenitis. And mixing a herding breed with a hunting breed could lead to some awful hard wired bejavior traits. The Akita is one of the oldest breeds on earth. They’ve done pretty well for themselves. Want a mix? ADOPT FROM A SHELTER!
May 11, 2019
Some of these mixes would be susceptible to some pretty terrible health and/or temperament issues. Example: Both Akitas and Standard Poodles carry a genetic disorder called sebaceous adenitis. And mixing a herding breed with a hunting breed could lead to some awful hard wired bejavior traits. The Akita is one of the oldest breeds on earth. They’ve done pretty well for themselves. Want a mix? ADOPT FROM A SHELTER!
April 19, 2019
If you ever revisit this article, would love to see an Akita/Boxer mix represented. My Boxita has a fabulous personality, very friendly with dogs and humans, yet still protective of the home.