Active
Playful
Energetic
Protective
Alert
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Loyal
Fearless
Brave
Bright
Hard working
Resourceful

Curious
Dignified
Independent
Protective
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Responsive
Docile
Obedient
Loyal
Watchful
Faithful
Vigilant
Willing

Box Heelers are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Akita Shepherds shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

Blue Heeler and Boxer

German Shepherd and Akita

DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

Unknown

Mid 1900s

Brown

Brown

Black

Black
Brown

Brindle
Blue

Brindle
White
Silver
Fawn
Black
Red
Brown
Sable
Gray

Box Heelers have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Akita Shepherds have medium-length coats.

A Box Heeler can have a litter of 2-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

An Akita Shepherd can have a litter of 3-12 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Box Heelers are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Akita Shepherds are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Usually Very Healthy

Canine Hip Dysplasia
Bloat
Von Willebrand's Disease
Degenerative Myelopathy
Congenital Heart Defect
Autoimmune Thyroiditis
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Eye Problems
Gastric Dilation Volvulus

Elbow Dysplasia
Panosteitis
Pemphigus
Sebaceous Adenitis
Pannus
Perianal Fistulas
Hemophilia
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency

X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Cardiac
Eye
Hip
Blood
Dna For Vwd
Internal Imaging (x-ray, CT scan, MRI, etc.)
Full Body Physical Examination

Box Heeler has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Akita Shepherd has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Box Heelers are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Akita Shepherds sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Chase, Catch treats, Car rides, Walk, Run, Tug-of-war, Playdate, Chase tail, Eating, Play fetch, Cuddling, Take on walks, Hanging out, Chewing antlers, Daily walks, Jeep rides, Dog Parks, Fetch, Hike, Swim, Cuddle, Shake, Hiking, Running, Swimming, Sleeping, Keep away, Fetching, Go Camping, Cuddles

Hike, Run, Fetch, Hikes, Walk, K9 scent work, Smart, Playful, Endless energy, Sweet, Swim, Running, Swimming, Walking, Skateboarding, Hiking, Play, Play keep away, Tug-of-war, Nap, Cuddling, Bird watching, Tag

Box Heelers are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Akita Shepherds are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Box Heeler, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Akita Shepherd, it's at least 14 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

In general most Box Heelers usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Akita Shepherds usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

The Box Heeler is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

The Akita Shepherd requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

For an average 35-80 pound (16 - 36 kg) Box Heeler feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 65-85 pound (29 - 39 kg) Akita Shepherd feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

Box Heelers are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

The Akita Shepherd is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Box Heelers have an average level of friendliness towards children.

Akita Shepherds make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Box Heelers are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

Akita Shepherds are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Box Heelers are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Akita Shepherds have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.