A Guide to Owning a German Shepherd Akita Corgi Mix

Dog ownership has gotten interesting these days. With the possibility of cross-breeding, picking out the right breed with desired characteristics is now a reality.

Breeders have been experimenting with up to three breeds at once and a few success stories have come forth as a result. One of the most fascinating and precious tri-mix dog breeds is the German shepherd Akita Corgi mix.

Just from the name, you already know this dog is a winner in the looks department. If you are looking for a cuddly, intelligent, and loyal bear for a dog, this great mix might just be for you.

In this guide, you will learn a ton about owning a German shepherd Akita Corgi mix.

Some of the things covered include physical characteristics, temperaments, grooming, training, feeding, health, and exercise requirements.

Physical Characteristics

This unique three-way mix is one of the most interesting dogs around. Tri-mixes aren’t commonplace, which is why this breed sparks a lot of interest far and wide.

Expectedly, he has a little bit of everything from his folks. Size, weight, and height vary but if you get a large breed, best believe he got it from two of his parents, the German shepherd (often measuring 22-26 inches), an Akita (measuring 26-28 inches), and a Corgi (measuring 10-12 inches).

This adorable dog looks like a little grizzly bear. With the exact frame and power, many people understandably have a problem telling if it is a real dog or not until they see the paws sticking out.

When it comes to weight, German shepherd Akita Corgi dogs don’t spot the same number. Ideally, a Corgi weighs as much as 30 lb, a German shepherd, 95 lbs, and the Akita, up to 130 lbs. This disparity reflects greatly on the end result.

Don’t be shocked when you come across one dog of this mix weighing less than 40 pounds and another one going as high as 100 pounds. This goes for its size and height as well.

This “bear cub” has a fluffy bear-like coat that is condensed. It is so very adorable and cute you’ll have a hard time keeping your hands off of your mutt.

Personality and Temperament

Don’t let the chubby and cute physique fool you, this tri-mix is a very smart dog. It’s all in the genes.

The German shepherd is considered one of the most intelligent dogs around. There’s also a reason Queen Elizabeth owned more than 30 Corgis during her reign. This small herding dog is a force to reckon with.

Plus, Akitas are thought to be humble and very loyal. When you bring these three breeds together, you will definitely end up with an intelligent and calm dog with a love for the outdoors.

Because two of his parents were committed herders, don’t expect your dog to sit around doing nothing all day. He will want to be on the move as much as possible.

As for affection and loyalty, expect to get plenty of that. As long as his needs are met, he is one of the most moving and sweet dogs to own.

Exercise Requirements

The German shepherd Akita Corgi mix is a creature of the outdoors. His herding instincts always get the best of him. If you don’t offer enough exercise, he will tend to get destructive.

Before owning one, make peace with the fact that you’ll be going on long walks with him several times a day. If you can play fetch or Frisbee, that would be great too. This is not a dog to own if you are a couch potato.

A long walk to the park twice a day during weekdays and strenuous activities such as hiking and hill walking during the weekdays is in the works for you. On the positive side, he will keep you super fit and toned.

Besides physical exercise, this dog requires mental stimulation as well.

Squeaky toys and outdoor ball games will give him the best of both worlds.

Diet

Diet is one of those things that really depend on the specific dog in question. However, because this dog mixture is dependent on high activity levels, he needs to eat the right amount of food.

Of course, beware of the looming danger of obesity but let him eat two balanced diets twice a day.

Vets recommend a raw food diet with an occasional intake of fish oil. Glucosamine and Chondroitin supplements will also keep things like hip dysplasia at bay.

Grooming

Just by looking at his super-dense coat, you can tell this dog is high maintenance when it comes to grooming.

He is a heavy shedder always leaving lots of hair on sofas and fabric. This means you have to brush his coat a number of times weekly to reduce shedding. A quality vacuum is also essential to keep your floors and surface fur-free.

As for baths, moderation is the key. Too many baths are counterproductive as it can dry out his skin. Ideally, a couple of baths every month is sufficient.

Needless to say, your dog will depend on you to trim his nails and lean his ears from time to time as well.

Health Issues

All dog breeds have a disposition to certain health complications. German Shepherd Akita Corgi breeds aren’t any different. As a matter of fact, this breed has the potential to suffer more health problems than pure or two-cross breeds.

Two of his big parents, Akita and German Shepherd are susceptible to hip dysplasia and bloat. This can be passed to the baby.

Other common problems include back problems, eye issues, and allergies.

Since it is difficult to predict the future of your fur baby health-wise, it is always a good idea to have him checked prior to taking him home. This is definitely costly but it will pay off huge in the end.

In addition, if you are buying a puppy from a breeder or an animal rescue, don’t leave before you have the correct information about his health on paper. Many breeders often hide this information so that they can make quick sales. Keep that in mind.

Finally, a proper diet, proper exercise, and frequent pet visits will go a long way in keeping your mutt happy and healthy for a long time.

Training

This is not the hardest dog to trains but not the easiest either. The different personalities and temperaments play out during training.

If he gets most of his character from his German Shepherd parent, expect the training to be responsive. He will likely pick up new skills quite effectively and fast. Of course, this depends on your level of dominance and leadership.

If you prove yourself to be a worthy leader, the dog will have an easy time obeying your commands.

Corgis and Akitas are sweet and loving but they can be quite stubborn. If you notice this character, don’t panic. He’s a herder by nature, which means he loves being the boss.

Find a way to work through this by reminding him who is in charge. If you are not firm enough, he will have a field day taking advantage of this.

Right from the beginning, establish your leadership as the Alpha and your dog will quickly give you the respect you deserve.

Is a German Shepherd Akita Corgi mix for you?

Well, if you can handle the high energy requirements and grooming needs, why not!

Obviously, this is no dog for an apartment dweller. If you don’t have a yard, it is best to own a lazy dog breed that can lounge on the sofa all day like an English Bulldog, Chow Chow, or Pug.

However, if you like to be on your toes and have plenty of space, this mix is definitely for you.

Just keep in mind his feeding requirements, health complications, and temperaments to ensure you give him the best that life has to offer him.