Akita Bernard
The Akita Bernard is a cross between the Akita and the Saint Bernard. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Akita Bernard. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Akita
The Akita is a large, powerful dog with a substantial build that reflects its heritage as a cold-weather working breed from the mountains of northern Japan. Males typically stand between 26 and 28 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 100 and 130 pounds, while females range from 24 to 26 inches and weigh 70 to 100 pounds. The breed possesses a muscular, well-proportioned frame that is slightly longer than it is tall, with heavy bone structure providing the power and endurance needed for their historic hunting roles. The chest is wide and deep, reaching to the elbow, with well-sprung ribs that contribute to the breed's impressive lung capacity and stamina. The head is massive and broad, forming a blunt triangle when viewed from above, with a short muzzle, well-defined stop, and powerful jaws. The Akita's coat is one of its most distinctive features, consisting of a thick double layer that provides excellent insulation against harsh weather conditions. The outer coat is straight, harsh, and stands somewhat off the body, while the undercoat is dense, soft, and plush. Coat length measures approximately two inches at the withers and rump, with shorter hair on the head, legs, and ears, and longer, more profuse fur on the tail. American Akitas can be any color including white, brindle, and pinto with well-defined markings, while Japanese Akitas are typically red, fawn, sesame, brindle, or pure white with the characteristic urajiro markings of cream or white coloring on the sides of the muzzle, cheeks, chest, and inner legs. Additional distinguishing features include small, dark, deeply set triangular eyes that give the breed its characteristic dignified and alert expression, and erect triangular ears that are small in relation to the head size and slightly rounded at the tips. The tail is large, full, and carried high, curling over the back in a gentle or double curl that complements the breed's balanced silhouette. The Akita's cat-like feet are tight and well-knuckled with thick pads suited for working in snow, and the overall appearance conveys strength, alertness, and nobility befitting this ancient Japanese breed.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Training an Akita requires patience, consistency, and a confident handler who can establish clear leadership without harsh methods. These intelligent dogs can learn quickly but possess an independent and sometimes stubborn streak that may cause them to question commands rather than comply eagerly. Positive reinforcement techniques work best, and training should begin early while the dog is still manageable in size. Akitas thrive when given a job to do and respond well to mental challenges that engage their sharp minds.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Gastric dilatation-volvulus, commonly known as bloat, represents a serious and potentially life-threatening emergency for Akitas and other large, deep-chested breeds. This condition occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood supply to vital organs. Progressive retinal atrophy is another inherited condition that causes gradual degeneration of the retina, eventually leading to blindness. Akitas may also be affected by von Willebrand's disease, a bleeding disorder, and acquired myasthenia gravis, which causes muscle weakness. Regular veterinary checkups, health screening of breeding stock, and awareness of warning signs help ensure early detection and treatment of potential health issues.
Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is a giant breed that commands immediate attention with its imposing size and gentle expression, standing among the largest and most powerful dogs in the world. Males typically stand between 28 and 30 inches at the shoulder and weigh 140 to 180 pounds, while females range from 26 to 28 inches and weigh 120 to 140 pounds, though many individuals exceed these ranges considerably. The breed possesses a massive, well-balanced frame with heavy bone structure and powerful musculature developed over centuries of mountain rescue work in the Swiss Alps. The overall impression is one of dignified power combined with an unmistakable air of benevolence. The Saint Bernard's head is one of its most distinctive features, being large and imposing with a broad skull, pronounced stop, and short, deep muzzle. The face displays characteristic loose skin that creates wrinkles on the forehead and gentle furrows around the dark, intelligent eyes, contributing to the breed's famously soulful expression. The ears are medium-sized, set high on the head, and hang close to the cheeks with slightly rounded tips. The breed comes in two coat varieties: the smooth or short-haired variety has a dense, close-lying outer coat with a thick undercoat, while the rough or long-haired variety features medium-length hair that may be slightly wavy with feathering on the legs, thighs, and tail. Acceptable coat colors include white with red, red with white, or brindle with white, with the red ranging from light mahogany to deep brownish-yellow. White markings typically appear on the chest, feet, tail tip, noseband, and collar, while a white blaze on the face is considered desirable. The tail is long, heavy, and carried low when relaxed but raised with a gentle curve when the dog is alert or in motion. Despite their enormous size, well-bred Saint Bernards should move with a smooth, powerful gait that demonstrates their capability for sustained work in challenging terrain.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament While Saint Bernards are not excessively energetic dogs, they do require regular moderate exercise and plenty of space to stretch out comfortably. They are not well-suited to apartment living due to their size and tendency to drool, and they thrive in homes with fenced yards where they can spend time outdoors. The breed is notably sensitive to heat due to its heavy coat and large body mass, requiring access to shade and cool environments during warm weather. Saint Bernards typically get along well with other dogs and household pets, though their sheer size requires supervision around smaller animals and young children to prevent accidental injuries.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Osteosarcoma, an aggressive bone cancer, affects Saint Bernards and other giant breeds at higher rates than smaller dogs, typically appearing in middle-aged to older animals and carrying a guarded prognosis even with treatment. Eye problems including entropion and ectropion, conditions where the eyelids roll inward or outward respectively, can cause irritation, infection, and damage to the cornea. Wobbler syndrome affects the cervical spine and can cause neurological symptoms ranging from an unsteady gait to paralysis. The breed's heavy coat and large body mass make heat stress and heat stroke significant concerns during warm weather. Regular veterinary monitoring, weight management, appropriate exercise, and attention to environmental conditions help maximize the health and longevity of these beloved gentle giants.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Akita Bernard may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Akita and Saint Bernard to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.