Kimola

Characteristics

Health & Longevity

Average Life Span: 10-15 years
The Kimola, a cross between an American Eskimo Dog and a Lhasa Apso, is a protective, loyal, generally healthy crossbreed. There are a few major health issues that the parent breeds might pass on, but they rarely show up before your Kimola is 6-7 years old. It is normal for a dog to develop some minor health problems as they age. Dogs are like people in that sense. Regular vet check-ups can help you keep better track of your Kimola’s health, from the puppy phase and up.

Skin Allergies

The Kimola, thanks to the Lhasa Apso, is prone to skin allergies. This condition is recurrent and results in itchy, red, blotchy skin, hair loss, and constant scratching or gnawing. Your pup could be allergic to the usual suspects, like grass, pollen, and dust. Or, she could have a unique allergy, such as peanut butter or rice. Your vet will be able to do blood tests to determine what your Kimola is allergic to. From there, you will either get a prescription for allergen medications. Or, you will be asked to change her food to see if that makes a difference.

Hip Dysplasia

This congenital condition occurs when the hip joint is malformed, causing the bone to pop in and out of the socket. Unfortunately, this can lead to deterioration of the cartilage, which can then result in a painful, awkward gait and arthritis if left untreated. This condition is easy to detect, especially because it is one of the things vets look for during routine puppy exams. Surgical procedures are required to fix the condition permanently.

Some other minor health issues that your Kimola might be predisposed to include kidney problems, patellar luxation, and eye problems. On average, Kimolas can live long, healthy lives for 10-15 years.

Temperament & Train-ability

Loyal, clever, and sweet, the Kimola is a protective pup. One that would make an excellent night-time guard dog and watch dog. If she feels threatened, she will bark and growl furiously, but rarely bites. She is a great family dog since she gets along well with both children and other pets, especially if she was raised with them. Wary of strangers, the Kimola has a naturally alert and cautious disposition, but he shows immediate affection when he rules out a threat.

Kimolas are happy, active dogs, so they need plenty of outdoor time to release their excess energy. If a Kimola is left alone, or locked in a house, for long periods of time, she may get a little stir-crazy. This could result in destructive behavior, such as chewing on furniture, shoes, and anything else she can get her paws on. If you have to leave her alone for a few hours, keep the television on for background noise and comfort, and invest in several chew toys that she can use to keep her mind occupied.

The average Kimola is easy to train, thanks to the American Eskimo genetics. However, their natural protective instincts make early socialization a must. If you avoid socializing her as a puppy, she could show aggression towards strangers when she reaches adulthood. Teach her what is and what isn’t a threat. Use a firm but gentle voice to give her instructions. She will comprehend commands quickly if you sound and act confident.

Grooming

Both the American Eskimo Dog and the Lhasa Apso have lengthy, shaggy hair, so, naturally, the Kimola will inherit the same coat type but in different variations. Either way, they are moderate shedders, especially in the summertime. Brush your Kimola once a day to eliminate excess hair and keep her coat smooth, soft, and healthy. Too much excess hair could lead to tangles and mats that have to be cut out.

The Kimola is an easy dog to groom, as she has the same grooming needs as any other dog. For instance, bathe her when she gets dirty, trim her nails when they get too long, and clean her ears once a week. You should also brush her teeth at least three times per week.

Diet

Kimolas have hearty appetites. Avoid feeding her table scraps because it teaches her to beg for food when you eat. Instead, invest in a high-quality dry dog food; one that leads with lean meats and whole grains as the main ingredients. Feed her 2 ½ cups of food, sectioned into two meals per day. Dividing her food into multiple meals helps keep her satisfied between meal times.

While there are plenty of cheap dog food brands on the market, you should strive to invest in a wholesome, hearty brand. One that puts a healthy dose of nutrition in every bite. What you feed a Kimola will shine through in how healthy she is. Plus, she is less likely to have severe allergies with a dog brand that specializes in nutritious, whole ingredients.
 

Find A Kimola Breeder

Kimola Puppies For Sale

Adopt A Kimola

Cost

If you are shopping around for a Kimola pup, you can expect to pay between $300 to $700. These are for weaned 8-week old puppies. The adults are a little cheaper, depending on color, gender, and if you have plans to breed them with other dogs. Most breeders these days require you to sign a contract stating that you intend to spay or neuter your new pup.

You can also check the local shelters for a Kimola. They are rare, but you might get lucky. Adoption fees range from $150 to $200. You also have to factor in the costs of food, toys, vaccinations, routine vet check-ups, and protection against fleas.

Paws ‘N’ Pups Ranking

Paws ‘N’ Pups ranks every breed out of 4 with 1 being easiest to integrate into your life and 4 being the toughest – The lower the ranking the better.

Ranking takes into account a few basic factors including cost, skill level needed, high vs low maintenance and how critical regular training is to success. The Kimola is a solid 2 on the Paws ‘N’ Pups scale. These pups are friendly and sweet by nature, but their protective side can make them a bit aggressive towards strangers. However, through careful, thorough training and love, these crossbreed canines make the best family companions.

 

American Eskimo Dog

Lhasa Apso

Pomeranian

Samoyed