The Akita is a fiercely loyal breed who became quite popular thanks to the unbelievable tale of the world’s most famous Akita, Hachiko, who waited for his beloved owner’s train every day for 9 years after his owner unexpectedly passed away. With this tale of loyalty, coupled with their beautiful coat and adorable expression, the Akita’s undeniable popularity has continued to grow. This includes several Akita mixes.
While the practice of breeding designer dogs is expanding, the Akita has become a favored choice to mix with other breeds. Designer dogs are the offspring of two different purebred parents. We will introduce you to 20 different designer Akita mixes.
Generally, you want to be selective of the Akita parent to ensure proper bloodlines for the mix so that they are not overly protective pups. When bred and cared for properly these amazing mixes can be unforgettable companions.
- Akita Mixes
- Akipoo: Akita and Poodle
- Akita Chow: Akita Chow Chow Mix
- Akita Collie: Border Collie Akita Mix
- Akita Mastiff: Akita Mastiff Mix
- Akita Newfoundland: Akita Newfoundland Mix
- Akita Pit: Akita American Pit Bull Terrier Mix
- Akitabern: Akita Bernese Mountain Dog Mix
- Aussiekita: Australian Shepherd Akita Mix
- Boxita: Boxer Akita Mix
- Bullkita: American Bulldog Akita Mix
- Corgita: Corgi Akita Mix
- Dalmakita: Dalmatian Akita Mix
- Golden Akita: Golden Retriever Akita Mix
- Huskita: Siberian Husky Akita Mix
- Inukita: Shiba Inu Akita Mix
- Labrakita: Labrador Akita Mix
- Saintkita: Saint Bernard Akita Mix
- Samkita: Samoyed Akita Mix
- Sharpita: Shar-Pei Akita Mix
- Shepkita: German Shepherd Akita Mix
- Final Thoughts
Akita Mixes
An Akita mix is not the dog breed for everyone. This particular parent breed is extremely loyal and very protective of its family. They are natural guard dogs, and that’s exactly what they were bred and trained for.
Their appearance is one of the reasons why people have crossbred them with other breeds, as well as their devoted loyalty. They have become extremely popular as designer dogs over the last several years, and as a result, there are many different popular Akita mixes. We will look at our favorites in additional detail below.
Akipoo: Akita and Poodle
The Poodle is a very popular choice to mix with other breeds, largely due to their non-shedding coat. Breeders will often mix a certain breed with a Poodle in an attempt to produce a more hypoallergenic option for those with canine-related allergies. While the Akipoo cannot be considered an allergy-free breed choice, they will most likely shed less than other Akita mix counterparts on this list. They are a highly intelligent and active breed that can weigh between 45 and 120 pounds!
The Akipoo is equal parts friendly and willful. While their warm disposition makes them wonderful companions for children, their stubbornness requires a dedicated owner who provides consistent training and firm boundaries. This breed requires plenty of exercise and stimulation and loves to be around their family. Because of this, the Akipoo will not do well in an environment where they are left unattended for long periods of time.
Akita Chow: Akita Chow Chow Mix
The Akita Chow is a mix whose parentage begins in Asia. The Chow Chow from China and the Akita from Japan were both bred to serve their owners as fiercely loyal protectors. Their offspring, the Akita Chow, is likely to have a similar disposition. Expect a large dog as a result of this mix. They generally weigh anywhere from 88 to 145 pounds. It’s important that any potential Akita Chow owner prepares for a giant breed and has room to accommodate a pup of that size.
The Akita Chow is not a low-maintenance breed. They have a very thick coat which requires frequent grooming, and their stubborn nature can make them defiant if not trained from a young age. If you are interested in adopting this beautiful and loyal breed, we recommend training and socializing them as early as possible to help in raising a well-behaved pup!
Akita Collie: Border Collie Akita Mix
The Border Collie’s friendly and gentle disposition complements the Akita’s more reserved and aggressive nature. Their mix tends to have an improved disposition in comparison to a purebred Akita. This mix will likely be very similar to the Aussiekita. Both parent breeds like to work; therefore, an Akita Collie will undoubtedly be an active dog with demanding exercise requirements.
The Border Collie is also famous for their intelligence, meaning an Akita Collie is likely to be similarly bright. They need a mental challenge on a daily basis through interactive games and training exercises to remain happy and well-balanced. Left under-stimulated and with pent-up energy, this breed is likely to act out in destructive ways. Due to their potential size, avoiding this behavior through proper exercise with a dedicated owner is imperative.
Akita Mastiff: Akita Mastiff Mix
If you love giant breeds, this pup may be the one for you. The mighty Akita Mastiff mix is an incredible canine and can be an exceptionally loyal companion. They must have an owner with experience training giant and dominant breeds. The Akita Mastiff can weigh up to 160 pounds! Due to their size and strength, we do not recommend this mix to novice owners. We actually don’t recommend most Mastiff mixes to newer dog owners due to their size and stubborn streak.
This hybrid, along with others we’ve mentioned, has a high prey drive but generally does well around other animals if socialized and trained properly from a young age. However, due to their extreme size, is not safe to leave an Akita Mastiff unattended with small children in the event of accidental harm.
Akita Newfoundland: Akita Newfoundland Mix
The large Akita Newfoundland can weigh up to an impressive 145 pounds! This gentle giant is extremely friendly, an endearing trait that likely comes from their Newfoundland parent. However, if this mix happens to favor their Akita side, they can exhibit a more independent and dominant personality. Because any potential Akita Newfoundland owner could receive a huge dog with a difficult and commanding personality, we do not recommend this breed to inexperienced owners.
While a majority of Akita Newfoundland pups do extremely well with other animals in the house, a select few can exhibit aggressive behavior, especially towards dogs of the same sex. Proper and slow introductions must be made when introducing a new Akita Newfoundland to a household occupied by other animals. A well-adjusted Akita Newfoundland will be wonderfully loving and loyal with a giant heart to match their giant stature.
Akita Pit: Akita American Pit Bull Terrier Mix
Meet the protective and devoted Akita Pit! The offspring of an Akita and an American Pit Bull Terrier, this mix can make an excellent watch and guard dog due to the deeply ingrained protective instincts of both parent breeds. This medium-to-large pup generally weighs between 30 to 70 pounds with a coat that tends to resemble that of a Pit Bull. While both the Akita and Pit Bull has a reputation for aggressiveness, a properly trained and socialized Akita Pit will be friendly toward other animals and people, especially children. However, this socialization period is exceptionally important to have this outcome and should not be taken lightly or ignored.
This is an obedient breed, which makes them easy to train. While this is the case, we do not recommend this mix to first-time pet owners. The Akita Pit is a dominant breed, and without a strong leader to establish a respected hierarchy, the Akita Pit can become difficult to manage. An Akita Pit will flourish into an easygoing family dog with consistent, firm, and kind training.
Akitabern: Akita Bernese Mountain Dog Mix
This mix between an Akita and a Bernese Mountain dog, is an Akitabern, is a wonderfully sweet-tempered and friendly giant dog breed. Despite their large stature (this pup usually weighs between 70 to 130 pounds), they do very well with children due to their patience and gentle nature. As with many other Akita mixes, the Akitabern is a heavy shedder and will do so for the entire year!
Due to their thick coat, this mix adjusts well in colder climates, and they generally love to play in the snow! Both of the Akitabern’s parents are classified in the working group of canines by the American Kennel Club. This means their mix will have a strong drive to work and perform tasks. They do well when given a job to do and, at the very minimum, need long periods of vigorous exercise.
Aussiekita: Australian Shepherd Akita Mix
The unique Aussiekita is not a mix that works for everyone. A mix of the large Akita and the tireless Australian Shepherd, this breed must only be taken in by those who have the room and vigor to accommodate them! Given the proper environment, training, and activity, the Aussiekita will prove themselves a wonderfully committed addition to your family. If you slack on these obligations, the Aussiekita will likely become disobedient, destructive, and even aggressive.
The Aussiekita does best in an environment where they can stretch their legs, explore their surroundings and burn off excess energy. This means they are better in a rural or suburban home with a large yard. You should certainly never keep an Aussiekita in an apartment or tiny home setting. Preferably you are an active family that enjoys extended bouts of exercise and are willing to take this adventurous breed on various outdoor escapades.
Boxita: Boxer Akita Mix
The Boxita is a large, powerful, and athletic mix between an Akita and Boxer. It’s a common boxer mix, and like most dogs on this list, the Boxita has the potential to weigh up to 130 pounds. Due to their large size and high energy, this breed is best in homes with room to roam and a large backyard to expel excess energy. Attempting to keep this active breed in too small of quarters can prove to be disastrous and often destructive.
With consistency, this breed is moderately easy to train. However, both the Akita and Boxer can be stubborn, and therefore we do not recommend their mix as a choice for novice dog owners who have no experience working with strong-willed breeds. Given proper training and boundaries, they do especially well with children and other pets and generally have a very gentle and calm disposition. Like many we outline here, they are famous for their intense loyalty to their family (thanks to the Akita!) and can make a great choice for an active owner looking for a devoted companion.
Bullkita: American Bulldog Akita Mix
The Bullkita is a powerful mix between an Akita and an American Bulldog. This impressive canine is quite large, averaging between 70 to 90 pounds, and usually resembling a short-haired Akita. With luck, this pup will take the best characteristics of both their parent breeds: faithful like an Akita and affectionate like a Bulldog.
The Bullkita is eager to please their owner, making them easier to train than some other options on this list. They require moderate exercise and a consistent routine. They are sensitive to disruptions in their schedule and can, at times, act out aggressively due to the anxiety these changes induce. The Bullkita does best in a family with a predictable schedule that can provide a stable environment for this loving mix.
Corgita: Corgi Akita Mix
The adorable Corgita is a mix between an Akita and a Corgi. This playful and energetic Corgi mix makes a wonderful family dog who gets along well with children and animals alike. This pup is one of the more affectionate breeds on this list. They enjoy every minute with those they love and do not like being alone for long periods of time.
The Corgita has an extremely powerful prey drive and therefore should not be left alone with other small animals or roam free off-leash. This breed is not difficult to train and is one of the few Akita mixes on this list that could be a great option for canine owners with less experience.
Dalmakita: Dalmatian Akita Mix
The Dalmakita is a combination of an Akita and a Dalmatian. This striking breed can sport the signature black spot markings of a Dalmatian, making them quite the head-turner. You’re certain to have many stopping you to ask, “What kind of dog is that?” They are a large-to-giant breed that can weigh between 50 to 100 pounds. They shed year-round, so be prepared for lots of hair. This breed is certain to be fiercely loyal to their owners and should be socialized as early as possible to ensure they do not become aggressive towards strangers.
Distrust and even hostility towards unfamiliar people is a trait shared by both parent breeds, which means taking steps to suppress this behavior is especially important with this mix. The Dalmakita can sometimes suffer from congenital deafness, which is a condition inherited by their Dalmatian parent. If you are looking to adopt or purchase a Dalmakita, you should be diligent about checking medical records to ensure your pup’s health. Or better yet, adopt a deaf Dalmakita from a shelter! While special needs dogs can come with certain challenges, these wonderful pets still need loving homes.
Golden Akita: Golden Retriever Akita Mix
The lovable and outgoing Golden Retriever brings so much warmth to any breed mix. A perfect example of this is in the Golden Akita. This hybrid is one of many Golden Retriever mixes and receives the Golden Retriever’s relaxed and affectionate nature, which can help offset some of the Akita’s more serious and intense disposition. The result is a wonderfully pleasant pup who still exhibits the fierce loyalty that the Akita is famous for. This breed will most likely favor an Akita in appearance, standing larger than your average Golden Retriever.
This large-to-giant dog usually weighs between 65 to 120 pounds. They will also shed a lot! While the Golden Akita is adorable, any potential adopter should consider their size and extreme shedding tendencies when deciding if this pup will be a good fit. Their parent breeds have very different personalities, which makes the Golden Akita a surprising mix to some. However, the combination is likely to give you the best of both worlds, making them an ideal family pet.
Huskita: Siberian Husky Akita Mix
These two breeds are often compared, so why not mix them together? The faithful Huskita is a great option for any family with room in their home and hearts for this large, active breed. This mix between a Siberian Husky and an Akita generally weighs between 50 to 75 pounds. Known for being quite independent, they can sometimes display distant or detached personalities, making them an ideal choice for someone who isn’t looking for an overly affectionate canine. However, don’t be disheartened by their independence. Although the Huskita may not constantly show it, this breed is intensely loyal to their human family.
The Husky is a natural hunter, and the Akita is protective by nature. As a result, the Huskita is not a good pick for inexperienced owners. This breed requires a confident leader who can provide firm and consistent training. A well-adjusted Huskita will be energetic and playful. Although they are not an aggressive breed, Huskitas can function as excellent watchdogs. However, they need socalization and training done properly so they can distinguish between friendly visitors and possible intruders.
Inukita: Shiba Inu Akita Mix
Both the Akita and the Shiba Inu come from the Spitz family of dogs, meaning there are many similarities in the parent breeds of this mix. The good news is this makes the Inukita, also known as Shibakita, slightly more predictable than other mixed breeds. This hybrid generally matures into a medium-sized pup, falling somewhere in the middle of the larger Akita (which can weigh up to 130 pounds) and the much smaller Shiba Inu (usually weighing about 20 pounds).
This compact and powerful dog tends to resemble a larger Shiba Inu, which is widely admired for their fox-like features. The result is a beautifully striking canine that looks much like a fox-wolf hybrid. While exceptionally dedicated to their people, the Inukita is also incredibly willful. This feature makes them difficult to train, and consistent, firm leadership is a must for this stubborn breed.
Labrakita: Labrador Akita Mix
The Labrakita is a charming mix between a loveable Labrador and an Akita. Those with allergies or an aversion to pet hair – beware! This mix sports a thick double coat (a trait shared by both parent breeds) which sheds year-round and increases during shedding season. Before adopting this hybrid, you might want to invest in an excellent pet-hair vacuum. Both the Labrakita’s parent breeds come from a working background and combine to produce a very agile and lively breed. While the Labrakita makes a wonderful family dog, they are not suitable for families with very young children due to their size and energy level.
This pup is famous for having a high prey drive, making them not suitable for homes with cats or other small animals. They should also not be let wander off-leash, or you may chase them down for hours. Proper exercise is very important for the active Labrakita. They are happier in a home with a fenced backyard. This breed has demands beyond just the physical. The Labrakita is exceptionally smart and loves training exercises that challenge their active minds. Providing a healthy dose of both physical and mental activity is important in keeping a healthy and happy Labrakita.
Saintkita: Saint Bernard Akita Mix
This big pup is a mix between, you guessed it, an Akita and a Saint Bernard. This well-built mix usually weighs over 100 pounds. The Akita Bernard does best with an experienced owner in a spacious house who has experience working with breeds of similar size and strength.
The Akita Bernard stands out for their courage, intelligence, and unwavering devotion. These qualities make them capable guard dog who bonds closely with their owners. These pups do best when with their pack and do not like being alone for long periods. If you live in a cold climate, lead an active lifestyle, and have the time and space for this gentle and loving breed, the Akita Bernard might be just what you’re looking for!
Samkita: Samoyed Akita Mix
The gorgeous Samkita is a mix between an Akita and a Samoyed. This pup is certain to have a thick double coat and lots of fur! The fur may lean towards the Samoyed’s fluffy white fur or may blend with the colors of the Akita (which includes dark, tan, and even a brindle shade) when mixed. While this feature makes the Samkita fluffy and attractive, it also means they are not adaptable to hot climates and can easily overheat. They will also require frequent grooming and combing to ensure their lovely coat does not become matted. In other words, the Samkita is not considered to be a low-maintenance breed.
The Samoyed generally has a cheerful disposition, which can help offset some of the Akita’s aloof temperament. On the other hand, Samoyed can be considered quite a dependent and even needy pup. Mixing them with an Akita can help produce a more well-adjusted, bold pup. You really get the best of both worlds with this mix!
Sharpita: Shar-Pei Akita Mix
The Sharpita is a striking mix between an Akita and a Shar-Pei, likely to inherit the distinctive skin wrinkles of their Shar-Pei parent. They are a large breed of dog and can express headstrong and even aggressive inclinations. For these reasons, a Sharpita should only be taken in by those who have experience with dominant breeds. Owners must provide the structure and discipline this breed requires to thrive.
While the Sharpita is a truly devoted dog and can make a remarkable companion for the right person, they can also exhibit many challenges, including high exercise demands, a defiant personality, and territorial behaviors. Please consider these factors and commit to working with your Sharpita to overcome them before you decide to purchase this mix.
Shepkita: German Shepherd Akita Mix
Both the German Shepherd and the Akita are known as faithful breeds. The GSD is an American favorite. Mixing them will produce a devoted and brave canine who takes their role as guardian of their pack very seriously. Because of their guarding instincts, Shepkita owners should be diligent in socializing with this breed from a young age to reduce the risk of overprotective behavior.
The Shepkita has a wide range of sizing possibilities, and it’s nearly impossible to predict where each individual Shepkita will land. Usually, this pup will be anywhere from 60 to 130 pounds. Quite the range! Be prepared for a giant breed, just in case. While this breed has been characterized as having a somewhat serious disposition, the intense bond they form with their owners is likely to produce a very affectionate and devoted companion.
Final Thoughts
The Akita certainly brings a lot to the table in these mixes. Protective, powerful, and perceptive, the Akita isn’t a popular dog choice for no reason! However, they are not a good fit for everyone due to their size and somewhat stubborn personalities.
While some of the respective hybrids will carry these same characteristics, others mix with breeds that can help mellow these more difficult traits. If you are considering adopting an Akita mixes those on our list may prove to be a wonderful alternative and produce the perfect pet for you!
I owned a brindle and a red. Very amazing companions. Kaylee Koonz, and Kitta Koonz. Both are over the rainbow bridge now. My red was 180 lbs, my brindle was 210 lbs. Love love love the breed.
What is the akita mixed with in the title photo ?
Mason, it’s a Rottweiler Akita dog mix.
i have a male Huskita a female 4 way cross her mum was rotti/gsd and her dad was malamute / akita and i also have two of their pups, now 14 months old, i cant forget to mention my jack russell / chiuhuaha crosses aswell
My boy, Buddy, is a 7 year old Kelpie Akita cross. He is a rescue dog with a beautiful quiet temperament. He is friendly to other dogs and loves meeting humans. Buddy is a good watch dog with a deep threatening bark. I couldn’t ask for a more loving and dependable best friend.
We just adopted a mixed little girl- some Akita and lots of other things, the shelter believes. She’s being spayed so we are waiting to bring her home.
Information on how to adopt.
The AKC has local Akita rescues located on their website. You can find them under Akita.
My boy is an Akita x longhair collie he’s awesome loyal loving very good on and off the lead good guard dog gets a lot of compliments asking what breed he is he a very good example of what he is
He sounds like a very nice dog indeed, Eddie!
Aloha from Hawaii!
I am the proud owner of ZHAN-SHI an all-black chow chow and AIKO an all-white Royal Akita. Both registered and impeccable examples of their breeds.
I have been planning for five years now (the time it took to acquire them due to the rareness of all black and all white being born…) To have “Chow-Kitas” which is what we are calling them. So next heat cycle the Breeder/Vet will be doing their thing to ensure the safety and welfare of both my animals….who love each other very much.
Perhaps I can send you pics for your collection? The one thing I have to say about Akitas I never read anywhere is how they can be trained and even registered service (medical) animals and still let their instincts make them indiscriminate and what I mean by that is if they feel and they judge a situation to be not up to their instinctual preference for their owner or themselves they will override their training to act on impulse.
It’s absolutely 100% unpredictable and sometimes for reasons I can’t detect. ( I often say she either wants to know if you smell like a serpent or a sheep!!) The only other animal she even cares to know is ZHAN-SHI. Mahalo for your article! Aloha from Kapolei Hawaii.
Sounds like a wonderful mix, Daniel! Please feel free to send us a picture to the email address listed on our contact page. I’ll get it to one of our editors to include in our next article update. Just let us know where to credit the photo. Thank you for your comment, and thanks for reading!
I am on my third Akita, who I think is a very special fog. The second one was hall lab, 157 pound gentle giant, one of the best dogs ever. Akitas are beautiful in demanding dogs, mine is so loyal and protective of me. Akitas are the best ever.
Sounds like a great dog, Bonnie! Thanks for stopping by to share and comment!
I Adopted a 4 year old Akita while I was searching my first house purchase, ended up seeing him in the backyard of a farmhouse staying in a Kennel 10x 10ft, which did not allow him to do much at all, very limited, they were going to put him down after selling the house, and I was like you want to leave him with me if I get the house, and the owner was like, sure, take it.
Found a different house that was more interesting, big back yard, and way more space and things for him to do now at his New home, which I was told that the dog would not listen, obey any command and other complaints, got him 2 months 1/2 ago, and he is doing great, highly intelligent, strong personality, but nothing crazy, fell in love with the breed and loved the type of mixing that you have here, I’m getting mine fixed in 15 days, he is actually almost the same color as Hachiko from the movie Hachi, but he got the black mask!
I love Akitas, and their mixes! So protective, but so harmless with people, and animals if you socialize them since puppies. Mine is still getting socialized, doesn’t bite other dogs, but plays too rough, as he is a dominant type of dog!
I have a 2 1/2 month old Shepkita/Pitbull mix puppy. Sire was German shepherd/Akita Dam is American Staffordshire Terrier…can you give me any insights into this combination? I’ve already discovered how quickly he learns! Very smart!!
Hi Barbara! That’s an interesting mix! Yes, I’m sure he’s going to be very intelligent, and also very active! While his temperament is going to be a bit of a wildcard due to the parents, as with all dogs, I’d recommend you make sure he is getting enough exercise. That’s the first step to a happy and obedient dog.
If you want any insights into his health, I’d recommend doing the full DNA panel and health check from Embark. We’ve done it twice now with great results. Wait for the sales – you can usually get that pack at around $129 if you wait for them to come down in price. We most recently did one with our newest mix, and we’ve started her on joint supplements early as a result. Good luck and thanks for the comment!
We have a (we think) a Shepherd and Akita He is a wonderful dog..
A wonderful dog, friendly, loving but he can’t decide with one of us he wants as his best friend, he will show his love for both.. He also is great with my great grandson and love the cat( The cat didn’t seem to think so)
We have two Aussiekita’s a male and a smaller female. Both have the same parents but are about 1.5yrs apart. Great dogs for our family, but the younger smaller female Emmy is the handful. Tons of energy and a alpha female for sure. Was a interesting article and interesting to read of the other Akita mixes and characteristics.
Sounds like you have a couple of adorable pups, Sean. We love all the different variations and possibilities. They are endless! Thanks for commenting!
We have quite the mix on our hands! Kai is a: German Shepherd/Akita/Husky/Malamute/Bull Dog/Staffordshire Terrier/Rat Terrier mix. The first three listed are the three most dominant of his DNA. We took a DNA test to finally find out what this rescue of ours is! His coloring comes from his Akita side no doubt.
Sounds like a very versatile mix Aryana! Thanks for stopping by to comment!
I have what I believe is an Akita-border collie mix who looks almost exactly like the photo. He is a rescue so it was hard work at first but he is an amazing dog!
Thanks for the comment Beth, sounds like an amazing pup!
I had an Akita Australian shepherd mix. The best dog I ever had. He was smart,loyal,brave and very beautiful. He lived to be 13.5 years old. We called him Buddy.
Sounds like a great dog David! Thanks for stopping by to comment!
I think I have an Akita Weimaraner mix. A Wakita!
Sounds like an awesome pup Meghann! If you want us to add her, feel free to email me at kelly@loveyourdog.com with a little blurb and a picture! Always happy to add to our mix articles when we hear about a fun new mix!
I think I have an Akita with Irish Wolf Hound in his ancestry 4 in taller than standard Akita, Thin deep chest and big long toed feet. Do you have any images of such a mix.
Hi Denise – not currently, but if you’d like us to add your pup, feel free to send over an image to kelly@loveyourdog.com and we will include it in the article! If you contact me by email, I’ll give you all the specifications and we can get your pup on the site if you’d like to be featured.