The Akita breed of dog was originally bred for the purpose of guarding and protecting Japanese royalty. They are widely recognized as an impressive breed, known for their ability to command attention, high level of intelligence, and loyalty towards their family.
In 1937, Helen Keller introduced the first Akita breed to the United States. This occurred after her visit to Tokyo, where she saw the Hachiko statue that was built in 1920.
The Akita is one of the biggest dog breeds and can grow up to 24 – 26 inches for females and 26 – 28 inches for males. Typical female Akitas will weigh 70 – 100 pounds, with males tipping the scales from 100 – 130 pounds. The average life expectancy for the breed is 10 – 14 years.
How much does an Akita dog cost me over their lifetime?
Akitas are one of the pricier breeds. The estimated lifetime cost of owning an Akita is $20,000 – $26,000.
For a lifetime of lovable companionship, welcoming an Akita puppy into your home also means ongoing financial responsibility for their care. It’s important to know that your paycheck can afford to care for this beautiful puppy, not just today but over the life of your new family pet.
From purchase costs and vet bills to grooming expenses and pet insurance considerations, this guide helps sort through all that comes with owning an Akita over its lifetime.
Comparing Akita prices: The initial costs and what you need to know.
Thinking of bringing an Akita into your family? Owning a family pet can be extremely rewarding, but it also requires dedication and resources. With great responsibility comes great joy – so make sure that you are prepared with enough energy and financial funds before taking on this big commitment!
If you are still on board and committed to adding an Akita as a family pet, here are three methods for obtaining an Akita puppy or adult dog.
Getting a ‘free’ Akita.
It is possible to obtain an Akita for free. The current pet parents may be moving, no longer able to care for the dog, or may have an unexpected litter of puppies. However, just because the puppy is free doesn’t mean that there are no other costs associated with a new puppy.
Being a pet parent doesn’t have to break the bank! Many essential items can be gifted from friends and family — think crates, carriers, leashes, bowls, and more. And for those cleverly thrifty shoppers out there – make sure you check online classifieds or local Facebook groups for unobtrusive discounts on must-have dog supplies like toys or food!
However, it is important to note that obtaining a free Akita puppy may not be the best option. Free puppies may come from unknown or questionable sources, potentially leading to health or behavioral issues. Both scenarios may result in unexpected expenses. For free Akitas, it is important to check their medical history and inquire about the original breeder in order to ensure that the pup is healthy.
Adopting an Akita
- $50–$500
Prices may vary based on the dog’s age and health, the shelter’s location, and policies, but generally range between $50 and $500 – making adoption an affordable option compared to buying one from a store or breeder!
Adopting an Akita could be a rewarding decision, with many deserving dogs in shelters looking for the perfect home. While this breed is known for being loyal companions, it’s important that the right precautions be taken prior to adoption in order to ensure both human and canine safety. Make sure you understand your dog’s history before welcoming them home with open arms!
Buying from an Akita breeder
- $1,000–$3,000
If you’re looking for an Akita pup, there are several factors to consider. The price of a high-quality puppy from reputable breeders generally ranges from $1000 and up depending on bloodline, registration papers, health screenings, reputation, and lineage of the puppy. However, breeders will charge much more for puppies from champion bloodlines or those with exceptional characteristics.
Female dogs may come with a higher price tag since they can be used for breeding purposes – but show quality puppies will cost significantly more! Make sure the breeder tests regularly their stock so that any potential health issues like eye disease or hip dysplasia can be detected early.
Avoid backyard breeders at all costs, as these kinds of pups present risks in terms of behavior problems too. For absolute top-tier litters only, check out the AKC Marketplace, which exclusively lists 100% AKC breed pups – plus, this comes with rules & regulations crafted by the American Kennel Club itself, guaranteeing peace of mind when shopping around!
First-time costs for acquiring the necessary supplies
- $250–$750
Akitas are noble and loyal companions, but they come with a hefty price tag. For the initial cost, prepare to invest anywhere from $250-$750 on the initial supplies needed for your pup’s comfort and care–think stuff like food bowls, kennels, dog beds, and preventive vet visits.
The initial cost of supplies for an Akita puppy can vary depending on the type and quality of items you choose. Here are some essential supplies and their estimated first-time costs:
- Food and water bowls: $10 to $50
- Crate or kennel: $50 to $200
- Bedding: $20 to $100
- Collar and leash: $20 to $50
- Toys: $10 to $50
- Puppy food: $50 to $100 (depending on the brand and quality)
- Initial vet visit: $50 to $100 (this cost can increase if the puppy requires vaccinations or other treatments)
It’s important to note that these are rough estimates, and the actual cost can vary depending on your location and the specific items you choose. All in all, you should plan to foot an average cost of about $500 when taking home this large breed companion!
List of initial Akita care supplies and costs
| ID Tag | $10 – $15 |
| Collar | $10 – $20 |
| Leash | $10 – $30 |
| Initial Wellness Check | $50 – $100 |
| Puppy Shots | $75 – $100 for each shot ($225 – $400 total) |
| Microchip | $25 – $50 |
| Spay/Neuter | $200 – $500 |
| Bedding & Crate | $20 – $100 |
| Crate or Kennel | $50 – $200 |
| Nail Clipper (optional) | $10 – $20 |
| Brush (optional) | $10 – $30 |
| Toys | $10 – $50 |
| Carrier | $30 – $100 |
| Food and Water Bowls | $10 – $50 |
Akita puppies make the perfect addition to your family – though you have to be prepared for the regular costs that come with owning one. In addition to the initial expenses of acquiring an Akita puppy, there are also regular annual and monthly costs that accompany pet parenthood. With some careful budgeting, having an amazing pup is totally achievable!
How much does an Akita cost annually and per month?
- $1500 – $2200 annually
- $70–$150 per month
As an owner of this breed, be prepared for one-time annual costs from $500 – $750 but can increase significantly over its 10-14 year lifespan. Recurring monthly costs range from $70 – $150.
Take your pup’s individual needs into account when budgeting – think grooming expenses, vet visits (both emergency & regular), as well as any special diets or travel plans. Providing top-notch care for your furry friend goes beyond adorable pet accessories; remember that financial commitment also plays a role in keeping them happy and healthy!
Akita food costs
- $420 – $720 annually (or more for special diets)
- $35 – $60 per month
Akitas are gentle giants, but they have a big appetite to match their hefty size! Caring for an adult Akita means preparing to feed them almost 400 pounds of food per year. On the bright side, there’s no shortage of delicious and nutritious options. Budget-friendly food can easily be found for $30 – $45 monthly, whereas tasty treats will clock in around $5 – $15 each month. However, if your pup is on prescription diet dog food, it could cost up to $100 every month. Don’t worry, though, because having such a special pooch is well worth the extra expense!
Akita grooming costs
- $120 – $960 annually
- $10 – $80 per month
Akitas are well-known for their signature cleanliness and lack of a standard “doggy odor.” Even without extensive grooming, these distinctive pups need to be brushed once per week in order to maintain their luxuriously thick double coat. As with any other pup sporting such an opulent ‘do,’ it’s important that owners prepare themselves for seasonal shedding or “coat blow” – but you can rest assured knowing the average yearly cost is only around $240!
To keep your Akita in tip-top shape, a professional grooming session once every two months is recommended for optimal coat maintenance. Enjoy spa day pricing from $60-$80 for all the works – washing, brushing, and styling of their beautiful dense coat plus nail trimming, ear, and eye cleaning.
You can also take care of things yourself at home – kits are available to purchase online or in stores, ranging from an affordable thirty bucks up to a more costly three hundred dollars.
Akita healthcare costs
- $240 – $720 annually (vet visits and wellness checks)
- $20 – $60 per month (medications)
Owning an Akita puppy is a big responsibility, but with the right care and preventive measures, you can rest assured your pup will have many happy years ahead. Be sure to get them microchipped for safety’s sake.
Costs can add up quickly in the first year at around $900 (spay/neuter included) or more. As they grow into adulthood, it’s important to remember that Akitas are prone to certain health conditions like hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, or eye problems, which may require frequent vet visits; annual wellness checkups typically range between $300 – $600 per visit.
To keep your Akita in the best health, monthly preventive medication for fleas and heartworms is advised, costing approximately $20 per month. Depending on your pet’s age, additional medications and treatments may be required, increasing your average monthly medication expenses up to $60.
If health complications occur, emergency vet visits will cost $300 at a minimum and could run into thousands of dollars! Expect additional expenses for tests and treatments. Make sure you have an emergency fund to cover unexpected costs.
Don’t forget about their dental health – brushing their teeth regularly goes a long way toward protecting those pearly whites from cavities and gum issues!
List of common healthcare procedures
| X-Ray Cost | $100 – $300 per X-ray |
| Ultrasound Cost | $200 – $500 per ultrasound |
| Teeth Cleaning | $150 – $250 |
Akita pet medical insurance costs
- $0 – $600 annually
- $0 – $50 per month
Pet insurance can be vital to helping manage emergency medical costs that may come up unexpectedly – making it an absolutely priceless investment!
With monthly premiums ranging from $20 – 50, there’s a plan fit for every budget. To make sure you get exactly what you need in terms of coverage and services, consider factors such as start date, deductible amount & type, and reimbursement limits when researching available options.
If you decide that pet medical insurance is not right for you, simply choose not to enroll in a pet insurance plan.
However, it’s important to note that opting out of pet medical insurance means that you will be responsible for paying for all of your pet’s medical expenses out of pocket. This can include routine care such as vaccinations and checkups, as well as unexpected medical emergencies.
If you choose not to enroll in pet medical insurance, it’s a good idea to budget for these expenses and have a plan in place for how you will pay for unexpected medical bills. You may also want to consider alternative options, such as setting up a savings account specifically for your pet’s medical expenses or researching low-cost veterinary clinics in your area.
Ultimately, the decision to opt out of pet medical insurance is a personal one that should be based on your individual financial situation and your pet’s medical needs.
Akita liability insurance costs
- $0 – $360 annually
- $0 – $30 per month
Some states and municipalities require liability insurance for dog owners, particularly those with large breeds like Akitas. On average, premiums can range from $10 to $30 per month, depending on your location and the desired coverage amount. Do some digging into different policies at various providers – there might be just what you need already included in one of your existing homeowner’s/renter’s plans.
Consider researching various providers before making a purchase. Some providers may offer better deals than others. Your current homeowners/renters policies might even include this kind of protection already. It’s worth checking out what they have first before incurring additional, unneeded expenses.
Akita activity and playtime costs
- $240 – $3000 annually
- $20 – $250 per month
Akitas are not known as a high-energy breed. While not a highly active breed, they do require regular attention and exercise to thrive. Make sure your pup gets a few long walks every day or has access to a fenced yard where they can explore safely.
For mental stimulation while you’re away, consider investing in a wide variety of interactive toys like puppy puzzles or enrolling them in agility training classes. There are several options for providing your Akita with mental stimulation that can help keep them happy and healthy. Here are some ideas and estimated costs:
- Puzzle toys: Puzzle toys are designed to challenge your dog’s problem-solving skills and keep them mentally stimulated. The cost of puzzle toys can range from $10 to $50, depending on the type and quality.
- Interactive toys: Interactive toys, such as treat-dispensing balls or toys that make noise, can provide your Akita with entertainment and mental stimulation. The cost of interactive toys can range from $10 to $30.
- Training classes: Training classes can help provide your Akita with mental stimulation and socialization while also teaching them new skills. The cost of training classes can vary depending on the location and type of class, but it can range from $100 to $500 or more for a series of classes.
- Agility classes: Agility classes can provide your Akita with physical and mental stimulation as they learn to navigate obstacles and follow commands. The cost of agility classes can range from $150 to $500 or more for a series of classes.
- Nose work: Nose work is a fun and engaging activity that involves training your Akita to use their sense of smell to locate hidden objects. The cost of nose work classes can range from $100 to $500 or more for a series of classes.
By providing your Akita with mental stimulation and enrichment, you can help prevent boredom and potentially destructive behaviors. The cost of these activities can vary depending on the specific option you choose and your location, but there are many affordable options available.
Other Akita ‘household’ costs
Owning an Akita can bring loads of joy, but bear in mind that this large breed may also feature a few extra paw-sibilities when it comes to your wallet. Prevent odors with occasional lapses around $20 for pet deodorizer spray, and don’t forget the costs related to any repair work on carpets and furniture should unruly puppy behavior cause damage!
Additional expenses to take into consideration
Owning a dog is an adventure that comes with some unexpected costs. When you travel, boarding your dog can cost $40 – $80 per day or more. It never hurts to set aside money for unforeseeable hiccups, like when your Akita decides it’s time for new furniture or some interior renovations!
Unless you are flush with cash, we always recommend setting aside an emergency pet fund to cover the surprise expenses.
Tips for owning an Akita on a budget
Give your Akita the care it deserves without breaking your budget! You don’t need to spend a lot of money to care for your Akita. If you’re looking for ways to save money while still providing your furry friend with the care they need, here are some tips:
- Buy in bulk: Purchasing pet supplies like food, toys, and grooming products in bulk can save you money in the long run. Look for deals at pet stores or online retailers, and consider joining a subscription service for regularly used items like food or flea medication.
- Groom at home: Professional grooming can be expensive, but many aspects of grooming, such as brushing or nail trimming, can be done at home with the right tools and a little practice. Invest in quality grooming supplies and watch tutorials online to learn the basics.
- Cook your own dog food: Homemade dog food can be healthier and less expensive than store-bought options. Look for recipes that include nutritious ingredients like lean protein, vegetables, and whole grains, and talk to your vet to ensure your dog’s nutritional needs are being met.
- Take advantage of free services: Many pet stores and clinics offer free or low-cost services like pet adoption events, vaccination clinics, or obedience classes. Check your local listings and take advantage of these opportunities to save money while caring for your dog.
- Consider pet insurance: While it may seem like an additional expense, pet insurance can save you thousands of dollars in unexpected medical costs. Look for a policy that covers preventive care, emergency services, and pre-existing conditions, and compare prices and coverage levels from multiple providers.
- DIY home repairs: If your dog damages furniture, carpeting, or other household items, consider repairing or replacing them yourself instead of hiring a professional. Simple repairs like patching holes or replacing upholstery can save you money and extend the life of your belongings.
- Self-train your dog: A well-trained dog is not only more well-behaved but also less likely to cause damage or require costly medical care. Invest in a book on training. There are many TV shows and Youtube videos that show you how to teach your dog basic commands, obedience, and socialization skills.
- Avoid kennel fees: Ask a trusted relative to keep an eye on Fluffy while you’re away – saving those expensive boarding fees in the process.
By following these tips, you can save money while still providing your dog with the care and attention they need to thrive. Remember to prioritize your dog’s health and happiness while also being mindful of your budget.
The price of puppy parenthood
Akitas are an amazing pet choice for those looking to bring companionship into their life. They can provide years of loyalty, friendship, and unconditional love with a lifespan ranging from 10-14 years!
The Akita is an expensive dog breed to own. It’s important to consider the financial commitment that comes along when owning one of these loving pups, but it will be totally worth it in the end – you won’t regret your decision!
