If you are charmed by the stoic, dignified, and endearing personality of the Akita and are considering adding one to your family, it’s essential to be aware of the costs involved.

Akitas, an impressively majestic breed originally from Japan, are not just known for their loyalty and protective instincts but also for their large stature. Does that inherently imply larger expenses? After the initial cost, $835–$2,040, you can expect to spend between $110–$940 per month depending on your pup and various factors. Keep reading as we breakdown all the cost you can expect below!

Bringing Home a New Akita: One-Time Costs

Let’s begin by examining all the potential ways you might come to own a new Akita. From free to breeder, here’s what you can expect to pay upfront:

While getting a pet for free is far less common, some individuals might give away an Akita they can no longer look after. Local rescue groups may have programs offering older dogs to seniors or veterans free of charge.

Remember that even if you get an Akita for free, you’ll still have significant expenses for care and maintenance. We will discuss those momentarily, so keep reading for all the essential costs that go into adopting a new Akita.

Adoption

Adoption can be a rewarding way to bring an Akita into your home. Rescue organizations often house Akitas and other breeds looking for a second chance at life.

The adoption fee usually covers initial veterinary costs, including spaying/neutering and vaccinations. This fee can vary but typically ranges from $75 to $400. As you likely noticed, there’s quite a disparity in potential cost.

That’s because prices differ based on various factors, the most notable being the Akita’s age. It pays to do your homework, so be sure to research and compare all your options to get the best deal.

Breeder

If you prefer to have a puppy from a reputable breeder, expect to pay between $650 and $2,000, and sometimes even more for show-quality dogs. Remember, with a reputable breeder, you’re not just paying for the puppy. You’re paying for the breeder’s commitment to the health, temperament, and breed standard.

Initial Setup and Supplies

Setting up your home for a new Akita includes buying food, a bed, bowls, toys, grooming supplies, and more. You’ll also need to consider initial veterinary costs for vaccines, deworming, and other basic health checks. This initial setup cost can range between $835 and $2,040.

List of Akita Care Supplies and Costs

How Much Does an Akita Cost Per Month?

You can expect to pay anywhere from $110 to $940 a month for your Akita. Your monthly expenses largely depend on the type of food you feed your pup, the level of activities you embark on, and the toys and treats you buy.

If you’re on a tight budget, don’t worry. We have some tips for such a situation that we will share in a moment. So, stick around to find out how you can own an Akita and save money doing it.

Health Care

Akitas are mostly healthy dogs. But as with all breeds, they are predisposed to some health conditions. Regular vet check-ups are crucial, as are routine vaccinations and flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives. Proper food and grooming can help with their overall health as well.

Food

Akitas are large dogs, and their food intake reflects that. High-quality dog food is important for their overall health and coat condition. This could set you back between $60 and $80 per month.

Grooming

While Akitas are not high-maintenance dogs when it comes to grooming, they do shed heavily twice a year. Regular brushing at home can manage this on the cheap, but occasional professional grooming may also be necessary.

When that’s the case, you can spend upwards of $100. Once again, shopping around and comparing rates can help you save.

Medications and Vet Visits

Routine vet visits, vaccinations, and preventative medicines like flea and tick treatments or heartworm medication should be factored into the monthly budget. Depending on the specific needs of your Akita, medication costs and vet care could range from $20 to $150 a month.

Pet Insurance

Pet insurance provides coverage for unexpected medical costs, an essential safety net given the Akita’s predisposition to certain health issues. Monthly premiums can range from $30 to $70, depending on the level of coverage.

Environment Maintenance

Beyond health care, food, and grooming, there are general environment maintenance costs. This could include home deodorizers or chew toys for your Akita. While it’s unlikely that you’ll ever spend more than $100 a month, it’s certainly possible.

An Akita that’s not getting the physical and mental stimulation it needs could resort to acting out and destroying its bedding. Factor in the replacement of toys and buying products for pet cleanup, and you’ve got an expensive monthly maintenance bill on your hands.

Entertainment

Akitas are intelligent and active dogs that need mental stimulation and physical exercise. Durable toys, interactive games, and occasional training classes are all great ways to provide this. Expect to spend $0 to $150 per month.

Total Monthly Cost of Owning an Akita

The total monthly cost of owning an Akita will range between $110 and $940, depending on your dog’s health and your personal choices for food, grooming, entertainment, and insurance.

Additional Costs to Factor In

Unexpected expenses can arise, such as pet sitting or boarding costs if you travel, damage to household items from chewing or scratching, or additional training if needed. It’s crucial to have an emergency fund for sudden health issues that may arise.

Owning an Akita on a Budget

Although Akitas can be expensive to own, there are ways to own one on a budget. You can save on costs by adopting instead of buying from a breeder, grooming your Akita at home, or opting for pet insurance to cover unexpected medical costs.

Saving Money on Akita Care

Preventive care is the key to saving money on vet bills in the long run. Regular check-ups can catch potential health issues before they become serious (and expensive). Buying food and supplies in bulk or during sales can also help reduce costs. So, keep an eye out for savings, and take advantage of them often!

Final Thoughts

Owning an Akita can be a significant investment, with one-time costs ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars and monthly expenses averaging between $110 and $940. Although it’s unlikely that you’ll ever spend more than a couple hundred per month, it is a possibility worth considering.

While this breed might appear to be an expensive expense, the reward of having a loyal, intelligent, and noble companion like the Akita is priceless. Be sure to factor in all these costs before bringing one into your family to ensure you can provide a comfortable, happy, and healthy life for your new furry friend.

---

Featured Image Credit: Anaite, Shutterstock