If you're ready to open up your heart and home to a new dog, an Akita Inu will make an incredible companion. Loyal and loving, this large breed has much to offer, but it's important to know what to expect from an Akita Inu as it grows from puppyhood into adulthood to make sure that you're prepared and well-equipped to handle and meet its needs.
If you are not rescuing your Shiba Inu, it’s helpful to understand the price of these dogs when searching for one from a reputable breeder. According to Pets by Wide Open Media, “Purebred Akita puppies from reputable breeders will vary between approximately $600 and $2000, depending on the breeder, bloodline, American Kennel Club (AKC) papers, and verifiable family health history.”
What size is an Akita Inu?
Even as a puppy, Akita Inus are a sizable breed! By three months, an Akita Inu puppy could reach up to 40 pounds — translation: this will be a big dog, and growth happens fast.
According to the American Kennel Club, at a mature age (fully grown), a male Akita Inu can be up to 28 inches tall, while a female is just slightly shorter at 26 inches tall. Weight ranges from 100-130 pounds for males, while females weigh around 70-100 pounds.
What kind of temperament does an Akita Inu have?
Temperament is one of the most important things to consider when doing your due diligence about a potential dog you'd like to welcome into your home. Knowing what to expect allows you to plan for training and socialization, in addition to giving you a better understanding of what your dog will need from you — and from its living environment.
Things that are essential to consider:
- Do you need a dog that's good with kids?
- Do you need a dog that's good with other animals?
- Do you need a dog that can be left alone for extended periods?
- Do you need a quiet dog?
- Do you need a dog that is active and personable?
- Do you need a protective dog?
The Akita Inu is a fiercely loyal dog — but sometimes, that can be to a fault. This breed is generally best in an only-dog-in-the-home scenario. While that's not to say that all Akita Inus aren't great with other dogs, it's helpful to know that, in general, this breed is not recommended for homes with multiple dogs/pets as it can show signs of aggression.
This dog is loving and affectionate with family members, including children. Though, it is always worth mentioning that all dogs should be monitored around children and when meeting new people. Because of this breed's size and stature, they can be intimidating to others. With their fierce loyalty to their owners, Akita Inus may be protective and territorial of their owners and space.
Because they can be dominant (and some say stubborn), it's best to start training early to ensure your dog respects and honors your commands and can take essential cues from you at home or in public settings.
What are the activity needs/energy levels of an Akita Inu?
Akita Inus are like that friend who's always up for an adventure—they've got a playful spirit and a good amount of energy! While they're not bouncing-off-the-walls hyper, they definitely need their daily dose of exercise. Think a brisk walk, a fun game of fetch in the park, or even a hike on the weekends. Don't let their fluffy appearance fool you; these pups are surprisingly athletic and love to stretch their legs! Providing them with enough physical activity not only keeps them happy and healthy, but also helps prevent boredom and those mischievous antics that can come with it.

How often does an Akita Inu need to be groomed?
Expect shedding if you plan to bring home an Akita Inu. This breed is *very* fluffy and leans higher on the shedding spectrum. Their coat is beautiful and one of the most outwardly notable things about this beautiful breed. Regular bathing, brushing, and grooming are essential to keep their coat looking lush and healthy. A trip to the professional groomer will generally be required every 2.5-3 months. In the warmer seasons (or if you live in year-round hot-weather climates), more frequent brushing may be necessary to help your dog shed unnecessary hair to stay cool and comfortable.
Are there many different color variations of an Akita Inu?
Imagining a particular color for your dog? According to Pet Chao, the Akita Inu has varying coat colors that can be broken down into four key categories that include:
Is the Akita Inu breed susceptible to any particular health concerns/issues?
Health issues that may be found in Akita Inus include:
- Hip dysplasia
- Eye issues
- Thyroid issues
What kind of diet does an Akita Inu need?
Because this is a particularly high-energy, active breed, a high-protein, high-quality diet is essential. Because bloat can be a common issue in larger breeds, it's crucial to prioritize gut health for your dog. (We've got treats for digestion support!) Including probiotics in your dog's diet may be a good idea, and ensuring their diet is free of corn and grains can be helpful, too. As always, it's best to consult your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your dog.
What is an Akita Inu's life expectancy?
The average lifespan for an Akita Inu is said to be between 10-14 years.