Owning an Akita in India can be relatively expensive due to its high maintenance needs, grooming requirements, and sensitivity to hot weather. Below is an approximate cost breakdown:

Initial Purchase Price:

₹70,000 to ₹1,50,000 (from a reputable breeder)

Monthly Maintenance Cost:

Food: ₹4,000 to ₹8,000/month (premium large-breed kibble or raw diet)

Grooming: ₹500 to ₹1,000/month (DIY brushing; professional grooming occasionally)

Veterinary Care: ₹1,500 to ₹3,000/month (routine check-ups, vaccinations, supplements)

Training & Socialization: ₹5,000 to ₹15,000 (initial cost for classes or private trainer)

Cooling Solutions (in hot climates): ₹2,000 to ₹5,000/month (AC, cooling mats, etc.)

Other Annual Costs:

Vaccinations & deworming: ₹3,000–₹5,000/year

Health insurance (optional): ₹5,000–₹12,000/year

Emergency medical costs: Variable (always keep a budget buffer)

Total First-Year Cost: ₹1.5 to ₹2.5 Lakhs (including purchase, training, accessories, and healthcare)

Annual Maintenance: ₹80,000 to ₹1.5 Lakhs

Note: Prices may vary by city and availability of breed-specific services.

Akitas are large, muscular, and robust dogs with a noble appearance. They are built for strength and endurance, yet they carry themselves with a quiet, commanding presence. There are two types: the Japanese Akita Inu and the American Akita. While similar, they differ slightly in appearance.

General Appearance:

Height: Males – 26 to 28 inches | Females – 24 to 26 inches

Weight: Males – 45–59 kg | Females – 32–45 kg

Build: Strong, muscular body with a deep chest and strong limbs

Head: Broad skull with small, erect triangular ears

Eyes: Small, dark, and deeply set with an intelligent expression

Coat: Thick double coat (harsh outer coat and soft undercoat)

Colors: White, brindle, red, sesame, pinto, or black (solid or with markings)

Tail: Curled over the back and bushy

Distinct Features:

Bear-like face and proud posture

Fluffy curled tail, unique to the breed

Dense coat suitable for cold climates

Strong, straight limbs giving a powerful gait

Training Your Akita

Akitas are intelligent, loyal, and independent—but they can also be stubborn and dominant. Early, consistent training is essential to raise a well-mannered Akita. Here’s what you need to know:

Start Early

Begin training and socialization as early as 8 weeks old. The younger the Akita, the more receptive they are to learning new behaviors.

Be a Strong, Calm Leader

Akitas respect confident, consistent leadership. Use firm but gentle commands. Avoid harsh corrections—they respond better to positive reinforcement.

Focus on Socialization

Expose your Akita to different people, animals, environments, and sounds during puppyhood. This reduces aggression and builds a confident temperament.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Reward good behavior with treats, toys, or praise. Akitas respond well to motivational training, but can lose interest if commands are repetitive.

Limit Off-Leash Activity

Akitas have a strong prey drive and may not return when called if distracted. Train in enclosed areas or use a long lead.

Consider Professional Training

Enroll in obedience classes or work with a trainer who has experience with strong-willed breeds. This is especially helpful for first-time Akita owners.

Patience is Key

Akitas aren’t naturally eager-to-please like some breeds. Stay patient, firm, and consistent throughout their training journey.

🧼 Grooming Your Akita

Akitas have a thick double coat that keeps them warm but also requires regular care to stay healthy and clean.

Brushing: 2–3 Times a Week

Use a slicker brush or undercoat rake to remove dead hair and prevent matting. During shedding season (spring and fall), daily brushing is recommended.

Bathing: Once Every 6–8 Weeks

Bathe your Akita only when needed, using a gentle dog shampoo. Over-bathing can strip their coat of natural oils.

Nail Trimming: Every 3–4 Weeks

Long nails can cause discomfort and walking problems. Use a dog nail clipper or grinder regularly.

Ear Cleaning: Weekly

Check ears for wax buildup or infection. Clean them gently with a vet-approved ear solution and cotton pad.

Dental Care: 2–3 Times a Week

Brush teeth with dog-friendly toothpaste and give dental chews to prevent plaque buildup.

Eye Cleaning: As Needed

Use a damp cloth to gently wipe away discharge from the corners of their eyes.

Coat Blowouts: Prepare for Heavy Shedding

Twice a year, Akitas “blow” their coat and shed excessively. Increase brushing frequency and use a de-shedding tool during this time.

🧴 Grooming Supplies Checklist:

Slicker brush & undercoat rake

Nail clipper or grinder

Dog-friendly shampoo

Ear cleaning solution

Dog toothbrush & toothpaste

Towels and blow dryer (if needed)

Training and Socialization

Training an Akita requires patience and consistency. Begin early socialization and obedience training to help manage their strong will.

Tips:

Use positive reinforcement (treats, praise)

Avoid harsh discipline—it backfires with Akitas

Introduce them to new people, animals, and environments early

Enroll in professional training classes if needed