All about Akitapoo dog breed

All You Need to Know About the "Akitapoo" Breed (parent breeds: "Akita" × "Poodle (Standard)")

The Akitapoo weight typically ranges from 45 to 75 pounds as adults. While there can be some overlap, male Akitapoo average size often falls into the higher end of this range, generally between 60 to 75 pounds, whereas female Akitapoo healthy weight usually spans 45 to 65 pounds. This average weight can vary depending on the specific size of the Akita and Standard Poodle parents.

The Akitapoo average height typically ranges from 22 to 27 inches at the shoulder for an adult. This hybrid breed, a charming mix of Akita and Standard Poodle, can vary in size.When considering how tall is an Akitapoo, it's important to remember that males tend to be on the higher end of this range, often reaching 24-27 inches, while females usually fall between 22-25 inches. However, individual Akitapoo height can also be influenced by genetics inherited from their specific Akita and Standard Poodle parents, as well as their overall health and nutrition. You'll find a moderate to large Akitapoo average size, making them a substantial and impressive companion.

Akitapoo Colors & Coat TypesAkitapoo colors vary widely, inheriting a beautiful spectrum from their Akita and Standard Poodle parents. While there's no single "official" Akitapoo color recognized by major kennel clubs like the AKC (as Akitapoos are a designer breed), here’s a guide to common, rare, and exotic Akitapoo variations. Potential owners should note that AKC recognized Akita colors include Brindle, Fawn, White, Black, Red, and Sesame, while AKC Poodle colors are extensive, including Apricot, Black, Blue, Brown, Cream, Grey, Red, Silver, Silver Beige, and White. The Akitapoo can inherit any of these.Common Akitapoo Colors: You'll frequently find Akitapoos in Brindle, a striking tiger-stripe pattern from the Akita, and Fawn, a light tan to reddish-brown. White Akitapoo coats are also very popular, as are various shades of Cream, Black Akitapoo, and Brown Akitapoo. Many Akitapoos display bi-color or tri-color patterns, often with white markings on the chest, paws, or face.Rare & Exotic Akitapoo Variations: Due to the Poodle's diverse genetics, some Akitapoos may exhibit rare coat types not typically seen in purebred Akitas. These can include Apricot Akitapoo, Red Akitapoo, Silver Akitapoo, and Grey Akitapoo. More exotic Akitapoo variations might include Blue Akitapoo (a dilute black), Chocolate Akitapoo (a rich, deep brown), and even Silver Beige Akitapoo. While very rare, some Poodle lines carry genes for Merle Akitapoo or Phantom Akitapoo patterns, which would be considered highly unique. These rare and exotic Akitapoo colors may come with a higher price point due to their scarcity. Remember, the AKC does not recognize these specific Akitapoo colors for the designer breed itself, but they are valid colors for the parent breeds.

The Akitapoo personality is a fascinating blend of its intelligent and watchful Akita parentage and the bright, sociable Poodle. This makes for a temperament of Akitapoo that is often loyal and devoted to its family, sometimes forming a strong bond with one primary caregiver. They can be friendly and affectionate with their inner circle, though some may exhibit the Akita's reserved nature around strangers, making early socialization crucial.Sociability varies; while some Akitapoos inherit the Poodle's desire for interaction, others may be more independent. They are generally intelligent and eager to please, making them trainable. Adaptability to apartment living can be challenging for some, as they are often active and benefit from a yard or regular, vigorous exercise. They are not typically a couch potato breed and thrive with mental stimulation and physical activity.With children, a well-socialized Akitapoo can be a loving and protective companion, but due to their size and potential for a strong prey drive (from the Akita side), supervision is always recommended, especially with very young children. Their behavior with other pets also depends on early socialization; some can coexist peacefully, while others, particularly with smaller animals, may require more careful introductions and management. Positive reinforcement and consistent training are key to nurturing a well-rounded Akitapoo.

The Akitapoo temperament is a fascinating blend of its parent breeds, the Akita and the Standard Poodle, resulting in a loyal, intelligent, and sometimes complex companion dog behavior. Akitapoos are known for their deep devotion to their families, often forming a strong, singular bond with one primary caregiver, though they extend loyalty to the entire household.

Akitapoo Care: Your Guide to a Healthy & Happy CompanionCaring for an Akitapoo (Akita x Standard Poodle) involves a balance of attentive grooming, regular exercise, and a well-managed diet. Understanding their unique needs ensures a fulfilling life for this intelligent and loyal breed.Grooming Needs: Akitapoo care requires daily maintenance to prevent matting due to their dense, often curly or wavy coat. Expect daily brushing to remove loose hair and tangles, especially during shedding seasons. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks for a trim and bath is highly recommended to maintain coat health and hygiene.Exercise Limitations: While not typically a low-energy dog breed, Akitapoos have moderate exercise needs. Aim for at least 60-90 minutes of activity daily, including walks, playtime, and mental stimulation. Their Akita heritage means they enjoy purposeful activities. Avoid over-exercising in hot weather.Dietary Considerations: Feed a high-quality, balanced diet appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Monitor their weight closely to prevent obesity, a common health concern. Consult your vet for specific dietary recommendations.Wrinkle and Ear Cleaning: Depending on their Akita lineage, some Akitapoos may have facial wrinkles requiring daily cleaning to prevent skin fold dermatitis. Regular ear cleaning (weekly or bi-weekly) is crucial to prevent infections, especially if they inherit the Poodle's floppy ears. Use a vet-approved ear cleaner.Climate Sensitivity: Akitapoos can be sensitive to extreme temperatures. Their dense coat provides some insulation against cold, but they can overheat quickly in warm climates. Ensure access to shade and water during hot weather, and never leave them in a parked car.Common Health Concerns: Be aware of potential health issues. Skin issues are common, often related to allergies or inadequate grooming. Regular dental care is essential to prevent periodontal disease; brush their teeth daily and schedule professional cleanings. Weight management is crucial for preventing joint problems and other health complications. Other concerns can include hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, and eye conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups are vital for early detection and prevention. For more on how to care for an Akitapoo and comprehensive health tips for Akitapoo, consult your veterinarian.

The Akitapoo activity level is generally moderate, balancing the Akita's calm dignity with the Poodle's playful intelligence. These dogs typically enjoy short bursts of energetic play, followed by extended periods of rest and relaxation.How active are Akitapoo? They require consistent, but not overly strenuous, exercise needs. Aim for 30-60 minutes of daily activity, which can include brisk walks, supervised playtime in a secure yard, or engaging puzzle toys. They are not built for endurance running or highly athletic feats.Playtime preferences include interactive games like fetch or hide-and-seek, and they often enjoy mental stimulation from training sessions. Due to their brachycephalic (short-nosed) anatomy inherited from some Akita lines, it's crucial to limit intense exercise during hot or humid weather to prevent overheating and respiratory distress. Always provide access to fresh water and ensure a cool environment.Akitapoos can be suitable for moderately active families who enjoy daily walks and interactive play. While they appreciate activity, they are not high-energy dogs that demand constant vigorous exercise, making them adaptable to households that appreciate a balance of activity and relaxation. They are generally not suited for very low-energy households that cannot commit to their moderate daily exercise requirements.

I'd rate the "Size" trait of the Akitapoo a 7 out of 10.While the Poodle (Standard) brings some elegance and a slightly leaner build, the dominant influence of the Akita pulls the Akitapoo squarely into the large to very large dog category. Akitas are substantial, powerful dogs with significant bone and musculature, easily reaching 70-130 pounds and standing 24-28 inches tall. Standard Poodles, while tall at 20-24 inches, are considerably lighter at 45-70 pounds. The Akitapoo will likely inherit the height of both parents but lean much closer to the Akita's weight and robust body structure, easily exceeding 60-70 pounds and often pushing past 80-90 pounds, with some individuals potentially nearing Akita size. They will be noticeably larger than most medium-sized breeds and significantly bigger than smaller companion dogs.Due to their substantial size and potential energy levels, the Akitapoo is not ideally suited for apartment living unless the apartment is exceptionally spacious and comes with a dedicated, extensive exercise routine. They would likely struggle with the confined spaces of typical apartments and could become destructive if not adequately stimulated. Travel can also be challenging due to their size, requiring larger vehicles and potentially specialized crates for safe transport. They are not well-suited for households with significant space constraints and would thrive best in homes with a yard or ample access to outdoor space where they can move freely.

I would rate the grooming requirements of an Akitapoo a 7 out of 10, placing them in the high-maintenance category. This hybrid breed inherits a complex combination of coat characteristics from its parents. The Akita typically has a dense, double coat that sheds heavily, especially seasonally, and requires regular brushing to manage dead hair and prevent matting. The Poodle, on the other hand, boasts a non-shedding, curly coat that is prone to matting and requires professional grooming every 4-6 weeks to be clipped and scissored.An Akitapoo's coat will likely fall somewhere in between, meaning it could be a dense, wavy, or curly coat that sheds minimally but is highly prone to matting. This necessitates frequent brushing, potentially daily, to prevent tangles and knots, especially in areas like behind the ears, armpits, and legs. Professional grooming will also be a regular requirement, likely every 6-8 weeks, for clipping and shaping to maintain a manageable length and prevent severe matting.Beyond the coat, both parent breeds generally have low susceptibility to skin fold issues, but regular ear cleaning is crucial for Poodle mixes due to their floppy ears which can trap moisture and lead to infections. Nail trimming will be needed every 3-4 weeks, as with most active dogs. Bathing frequency will depend on the coat type and lifestyle, but typically every 4-6 weeks is sufficient. While not inherently prone to extreme skin issues more than other breeds, the dense or curly coat can make it harder to spot minor skin irritations if not diligently brushed and examined. Overall, the Akitapoo is not an easy-care breed and will require consistent and often specialized grooming efforts to keep its coat healthy and free of mats.

The Akitapoo, a hybrid of the Akita and Standard Poodle, would likely rate around a 7 for exercise requirements. Both parent breeds are intelligent and active, with the Standard Poodle being particularly known for its stamina and athleticism, and the Akita for its strength and endurance. This mix would generally require a significant amount of daily activity to stay healthy and mentally stimulated. They would thrive on at least one to two hours of vigorous exercise daily, which could include long walks, running, hiking, or dedicated play sessions involving fetch or other active games. Their intelligence from both sides would also necessitate mental stimulation through training, puzzle toys, or even dog sports like agility. Without adequate exercise, an Akitapoo could easily become bored, leading to destructive behaviors or excessive barking. They are not a breed that would be content with minimal activity and truly flourish with a structured routine that incorporates both physical exertion and mental challenges.

I'd rate the "Watchdog Ability" of the "Akitapoo" at an 8 out of 10.The Akita brings strong protective instincts, a natural wariness of strangers, and a history as a guardian breed, all contributing to a formidable presence. They are known to be alert and will not hesitate to vocalize and physically deter perceived threats to their home and family. The Standard Poodle, while often underestimated, is also a surprisingly alert and vocal breed, quick to bark at unfamiliar sights or sounds. They possess a good degree of intelligence and can be quite territorial. The combination of these two breeds would likely result in an intelligent, alert, and vocal dog that is deeply devoted to its family. This hybrid would likely be quick to respond to unfamiliar sounds or people with assertive barking, providing meaningful early warnings. While not typically a dog that would passively ignore an intruder, its willingness to actively engage in a physical confrontation might vary depending on the individual dog and the dominance of the Akita genes, but the strong territorial instincts and alertness from both parents would make it a highly effective deterrent and an excellent early warning system in a home environment.

The Akitapoo, blending the Akita's independent and often dominant nature with the Poodle's intelligence and generally more gregarious personality, earns a 4/10 for the "Good with Other Dogs" trait. While the Poodle influence can introduce a degree of sociability, the Akita's strong prey drive, territorial instincts, and tendency towards same-sex aggression, especially with other dominant breeds, significantly lower the overall compatibility.Akitapoos are likely to require careful and early socialization from a young age to merely tolerate other dogs, rather than actively enjoy their company. They may exhibit cautious or aloof behavior around unfamiliar dogs and can be prone to dominance challenges, particularly with dogs of similar energy levels or size. Coexisting peacefully in a multi-dog household would demand meticulous introductions, ongoing training, and perhaps a highly structured environment to prevent conflicts. It's improbable that this breed would thrive in canine company without extensive intervention; rather, they are more likely to require careful management and one-on-one attention to coexist without incident, particularly if the Akita traits are prominent. Owners should be prepared for potential reactivity and a need for careful supervision during interactions with other canines.

I'd rate the Akitapoo's "Energetic" trait at a 7 out of 10.This rating stems from the combination of its parent breeds. The Standard Poodle is known for its high intelligence, athleticism, and moderate to high energy levels, requiring significant physical and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. They love to play, run, and participate in various activities. The Akita, while possessing a powerful build, tends to be more reserved and dignified, with a moderate energy level. They enjoy walks and playtime but aren't typically as perpetually "on" as a Poodle. The Akitapoo inherits a blend, resulting in a dog that is generally active, playful, and needs regular exercise to be happy and well-adjusted. They won't be as hyperactive as some working breeds, but they are far from a couch potato. They'll enjoy daily walks, games of fetch, and potentially more vigorous activities like hiking. They are naturally more active than laid-back, thriving on engagement and activity.Crucially, neither the Akita nor the Standard Poodle are brachycephalic, meaning the Akitapoo also *does not* possess brachycephalic anatomy. This allows them to have good stamina and exercise tolerance without the breathing difficulties that can restrict activity in short-nosed breeds. Therefore, their energy levels are not negatively impacted by any anatomical limitations in this regard.

The Akita and Poodle (Standard) mix, the Akitapoo, would likely fall around a 7 for training requirements. This breed is not for the faint of heart or the complete beginner. While the Poodle brings a high level of intelligence and a willingness to please, making them generally responsive and capable of learning complex commands, the Akita contributes a strong independent streak and a notorious stubbornness. Akitas are intelligent but were bred to work independently, leading to a "what's in it for me?" attitude when it comes to training. Their attention span can be good when engaged, but they can also quickly decide they're done with a task.Therefore, an Akitapoo will likely require highly consistent, firm, and patient handling. Positive reinforcement will be effective, but you'll need to find high-value rewards and make training sessions engaging and varied to maintain their interest. The independent nature from the Akita side means that while they understand commands, they may choose not to obey if they don't see the point or if you haven't established clear leadership. This breed will likely need experienced handling and highly structured routines to ensure they grow into well-behaved companions. They are definitely not beginner-friendly and require an owner prepared to invest significant time and effort into their training.

The Akitapoo, a mix of the Akita and Standard Poodle, would likely rate a 7 for playfulness. While the Standard Poodle contributes a strong desire for interaction, games, and an energetic nature, the Akita's more reserved and independent temperament tends to temper this. Akitapoos are generally spirited and enjoy playtime, particularly with their family, but they might not possess the boundless, always-on-the-go energy of some other companion breeds. They will certainly respond to toys and love a good game of fetch or a puzzle toy, but they are also capable of periods of calm and are not typically attention-seeking to an extreme degree. Compared to a high-energy terrier or retriever, they might be more laid-back, but they are far from inactive. They appreciate mental stimulation as much as physical activity, enjoying structured games and training.

The Akitapoo, blending the Akita's devotion with the Poodle's companionability, earns a solid 7 out of 10 for affection. While they are undoubtedly loyal and form strong bonds with their families, their desire for physical closeness can vary. They are highly sensitive to owner emotions and will often follow family members around, demonstrating their desire for companionship. However, they may not always be a "lap dog" and might appreciate personal space more than some breeds. They thrive on affection and praise, but can also exhibit an independent streak inherited from the Akita, making them loving without being overly clingy.

I'd rate the "Good with Other Pets" trait of the Akitapoo a 5 out of 10.This rating reflects the significant influence of the Akita parent, which is known for its strong prey drive, resource guarding tendencies, and often a preference for being the sole animal companion. While the Poodle's more adaptable and generally friendly nature might temper these traits, it's unlikely to completely negate them. An Akitapoo might be tolerant of other pets, especially if raised with them from a young age and extensively socialized, but it's not a breed that's naturally inclined to be extremely pet-friendly without considerable effort. Owners should be prepared for potential challenges, particularly with smaller animals due to the Akita's prey drive. Training and consistent supervision will be crucial for peaceful coexistence in multi-pet households, and even then, some individuals may never fully embrace other animals. This is a breed that, while potentially manageable, requires a proactive and dedicated approach to ensure the safety and harmony of all pets.

Rating: 6/10Explanation: The Akitapoo inherits a complex blend of traits from its parent breeds, making its suitability with children somewhat nuanced. The Akita influence brings a natural protectiveness and loyalty, which can be positive for families. However, Akitas are also known for their strong prey drive, independent nature, and a tendency to be reserved or even intolerant of boisterous behavior from young children. They are not typically a "goofy" or overtly playful breed. The Poodle (Standard) contributes intelligence, a playful spirit, and a generally more agreeable temperament. They are often good with children, especially when well-socialized, and can be quite affectionate.The Akitapoo's temperament will likely fall somewhere in the middle. They will likely be loyal to their family and protective, which can be reassuring. However, their Akita heritage means they may have a lower tolerance for rough play, constant noise, and unpredictable movements from very young children. They might be patient to a point but could react if pushed too far. Playfulness will likely be present, thanks to the Poodle, but it might not be the gentle, all-inclusive playfulness of some dedicated family breeds.Therefore, an Akitapoo can thrive in a family with children, but it absolutely requires significant early socialization, consistent positive reinforcement training, and constant supervision, particularly with younger children. Children must be taught how to interact respectfully and gently with the dog. It's not a breed that is naturally gentle and affectionate with all children from the outset; instead, its success in a family setting relies heavily on proactive training, clear boundaries for both dog and children, and ongoing management. For families with older, more respectful children who can understand and participate in the dog's training and boundaries, the Akitapoo could be a wonderful companion. However, for families with very young children or those seeking an effortlessly child-friendly breed, supervision and management will be critical and continuous.

The Akitapoo, a mix of Akita and Standard Poodle, would likely rate a 5 for "Good with Strangers." This breed's temperament is a blend of two very different approaches to unfamiliar individuals. The Akita parent is famously reserved and can be suspicious of strangers, often displaying a strong guarding instinct and a preference for their immediate family. They are not naturally outgoing and require extensive socialization from a young age to be merely tolerant of outsiders, let alone friendly. On the other hand, the Standard Poodle is generally more sociable and approachable, often displaying a cheerful and friendly disposition towards new people, though they can still be discerning.The Akitapoo inherits a complex interplay of these traits. While the Poodle's influence might temper the Akita's intense reservation, it's unlikely to completely override it. An Akitapoo is not naturally an "everyone's friend" type of dog. They will likely be observant and somewhat cautious around unfamiliar adults, assessing the situation before deciding whether to engage. They may bark to alert their owners to new arrivals, a characteristic often seen in both parent breeds (though for different reasons – guarding for the Akita, general awareness for the Poodle).For an Akitapoo to be comfortable, let alone welcoming, with strangers, significant and consistent socialization from puppyhood is absolutely essential. Without it, the Akita's natural wariness is more likely to dominate, potentially leading to aloofness or even defensiveness. With proper training and exposure, an Akitapoo can learn to be polite and accepting of guests and public environments, but they will probably never be the type of dog to enthusiastically greet every stranger they encounter. They will likely remain somewhat reserved, choosing to interact on their own terms rather than seeking out attention from unfamiliar people. Their adaptability in guest-filled environments will largely depend on the individual dog's personality and the extent of their socialization.

I would rate the Akita x Standard Poodle mix, or "Akitapoo," a 7 out of 10 for winter tolerance. Both parent breeds contribute to a generally robust cold-weather disposition. The Akita, an originating breed from snowy Japan, possesses a dense, double coat designed for insulation, a sturdy build, and a decent layer of body fat, all of which lend excellent resilience in cold climates. The Standard Poodle, while often perceived as less rugged due to its stylized grooming, actually has a dense, curly, water-resistant single coat that provides good insulation, a lean but athletic body, and is a strong, active dog capable of handling cooler temperatures.The Akitapoo will likely inherit a thick coat, though its specific texture and density will vary depending on which parent's genetics are more dominant. It will generally have a muscular build and a non-brachycephalic snout, allowing for efficient breathing in cold air. The combination of these traits suggests a dog that can safely and enjoyably participate in outdoor activities in cold weather for extended periods.Compared to many other companion dogs, the Akitapoo likely requires less special care during winter months. While no dog should be left unsupervised in extreme cold, an Akitapoo will typically not need sweaters or booties in moderately cold temperatures. Owners should still be mindful of individual dog's comfort levels, potential for ice balling in paw hair (especially if the Poodle coat is dominant), and ensuring they have warm, dry shelter if kept outdoors for any length of time. However, for most common winter conditions, this breed should thrive and enjoy the snow.

The Akitapoo, inheriting traits from the Akita and Standard Poodle, would likely have a moderate "Summer" tolerance, rated around a 5. Neither parent breed is particularly brachycephalic, meaning the Akitapoo would generally have a normal muzzle length, aiding in heat dissipation through panting. However, both Akita and Standard Poodle can have dense coats, especially if the Akita's genes are more dominant in that regard, which can hinder the ability to regulate body temperature in high heat.They would be at a moderate risk of heatstroke, similar to many medium-to-large breeds with substantial coats, and would definitely require special care in summer months compared to short-haired or breeds specifically adapted to warm climates. Recommended outdoor activity levels would need to be significantly curtailed during the hottest parts of the day, favoring early morning or late evening walks. Climate control, such as air conditioning or ample shade and cool water, would be essential during hot weather to prevent overheating. While not as sensitive as truly brachycephalic breeds, their potential for a thick coat means they are not robustly tolerant of summer heat and need thoughtful management.

I would rate the "Healthiness" trait of the "Akitapoo" breed a 7 out of 10. This hybrid benefits from the concept of "hybrid vigor," which can sometimes result in a healthier dog than either purebred parent due to a wider gene pool. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that both Akita and Standard Poodle parents bring their own genetic predispositions to the mix. Akitas are known for potential issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, autoimmune thyroiditis, and certain eye conditions. Standard Poodles, while generally robust, can be prone to bloat, Addison's disease, hip dysplasia, sebaceous adenitis, and Von Willebrand's disease. Therefore, an Akitapoo could inherit a susceptibility to any of these conditions.Despite these possibilities, the larger gene pool can dilute the chances of inheriting two copies of a problematic gene, making them potentially less prone to some of the more severe issues seen in their purebred parents. Their life expectancy is likely to fall within the range of their parent breeds, typically 10-13 years. Responsible breeding practices, including health screenings of both parent breeds for known genetic conditions, are paramount to maximizing the health of Akitapoo puppies.Overall, the Akitapoo is generally considered a relatively robust breed compared to some companion dogs with more exaggerated physical traits that lead to inherent health problems. While they are not considered exceptionally high-maintenance in terms of health compared to brachycephalic breeds, they do require consistent preventive care, including regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and appropriate exercise to maintain their well-being.

I would rate the "Protective" trait of the Akitapoo a 9 out of 10.The Akitapoo inherits a significant protective instinct from both parent breeds. The Akita is renowned for its formidable protective nature, high alertness, and strong territorial drive, often being wary of strangers and fiercely loyal to its family. While the Standard Poodle isn't typically considered a guard dog in the same vein as an Akita, they are highly intelligent, observant, and known to be very loyal and protective of their families, often barking to alert to unusual activity.Combining these traits, the Akitapoo is likely to be an extremely vigilant and loyal companion. They will be highly alert to their surroundings, quickly noticing and reacting to anything they perceive as a threat to their household. Their territorial instincts will likely be strong, leading them to be suspicious of strangers and potentially confrontational if they feel their family or home is in danger. Their loyalty to their owners will be profound, making them dedicated guardians. While they are undoubtedly loving companion dogs to their families, the Akitapoo is certainly capable of offering meaningful protection in a household setting, acting as an excellent watchdog and, if necessary, a formidable guard dog due to their size, intelligence, and inherent protective drive. They are not merely alarm barkers; they possess the presence and courage to act on their protective instincts.

I'd rate the "Life Span" trait of the Akitapoo a 7. This hybrid breed likely falls into the average to above-average category for lifespan compared to other companion dogs.The rating considers the life expectancies of its parent breeds: the Standard Poodle, known for its good health and a lifespan often ranging from 12 to 15 years, and the Akita, which typically lives between 10 to 13 years. As a crossbreed, the Akitapoo benefits from hybrid vigor, which can sometimes lead to fewer inherited health issues and a longer, healthier life than either purebred parent, provided both parent lines are responsibly bred. However, they may still be predisposed to certain conditions seen in Akitas (like hip dysplasia, bloat, or autoimmune thyroiditis) or Poodles (like Addison's disease, epilepsy, or certain eye conditions). With responsible breeding practices that screen for these genetic predispositions and proper care including a healthy diet, regular exercise, and preventative veterinary care, an Akitapoo can be expected to live a fulfilling life, often in the 10 to 14-year range.