If you’re looking for a guard dog who will treat its responsibilities with importance and seriousness, then Akita Shepherd is a good choice for you. These dogs are a cross between a German Shepherd and an Akita Inu. They are very serious when on guard, but they also know how to let their hair down and have a good time.
Due to the fact that both of the parent breeds are highly active and athletic, this is not a dog that will be compatible with someone who likes to sit on the sofa.
Akita Shepherds are a somewhat uncommon breed, so you might not be familiar with them. Don’t be concerned; your perception is about to change due to this guide.
Due to the rarity of this mixed breed, it is unlikely that you will stumble across one by chance. The majority of Akita Shepherd owners did so on purpose, and they sought out the breed because it matched their unique demands.
These requirements are typically for a guard dog who is clever and active and who can be relied upon to make dependable choices even when under pressure. That is absolutely something the Akita Shepherd is capable of, which is why they are becoming increasingly popular for security purposes.
Another reason they’re so popular as security dogs is because they’re easy to train and eager to please their masters.
Beware of mistaking this effort to please a smooth and stress-free ownership experience. You can anticipate spending a significant amount of time working with these dogs when you’re at home since they’re incredibly energetic and athletic, and they’ll need to burn off their surplus energy somehow.
We hope that this cost guide will be of use to those of you who are interested in learning how much an Akita Shepherd puppy will cost to purchase. The subjects we will discuss in this post will cover a wide range of issues about Akita Shepherd ownership, beginning with the day you bring your pup home and continuing into its elderly years.
We will cover the cost of Akita Shepherd puppies and the factors that influence their cost and the cost of keeping an Akita Shepherd during the first year, followed by the cost of maintaining an Akita Shepherd in each subsequent year after that. In addition, we will cover the cost of training, the cost of your Akita Shepherd’s diet, the cost of basic canine equipment, and the cost of immunizations for your dog. We will also cover all medical expenditures and incidental charges such as dog walking, grooming, and travel, as well as housing your pet while you are away.
You might find the following summary useful in order to save time:
Cost of Akita Shepherd Puppy?
There are only a few specialized Akita Shepherd breeders left in the world, so finding one might be a challenging task. The cost of a new puppy will likely range between $300 to $700; however, the cost may be higher if the canines are particularly bred for security purposes.
Instead of buying, search this dog in animal shelters, or you’d be better off looking via classified advertisements. Taking this option may result in a significant reduction in cost for you.
The price of Akita Shepherd puppies is shown in the following table, with the lowest, highest, and average quantities shown for reference.
| The minimum price of an Akita Shepherd puppy | $500 |
| The maximum price of an Akita Shepherd puppy | $2500 |
| Price bracket | $500 to $700 |
| Price average | $600 |
Factors that Influence the Cost of Akita Shepherd Pups
Breeders
Breeders who are concerned about their dogs and who put up a great deal of effort to keep them in good condition are hard to come by. As is obvious, the price of your Akita Shepherd puppy will be affected due to these factors.
Health-guarantee
Another crucial factor that might have an impact on the price of your Akita Shepherd is whether or not it comes with a health assurance. Breeders that are well-known for their superiority will provide a 2-year warranty against genetic defects in their offspring. This will almost certainly result in a significant increase in the price of your puppy, as the breeder will want to recuperate the costs of the vet bills.
Basic Supplies your Akita Shepherd will Need and Approximate Costs
To prepare for the arrival of your Akita Shepherd, you’ll need to stock up on a few essentials.
Training aids and equipment
Keeping your Akita Shepherd puppy under constant supervision will be necessary from the outset. Clickers for clicker training, high-quality (low-calorie) goodies, potty training pads or urine pads, no-chew training, harsh sprays to keep your dog from chewing on furniture, and other accessories can aid in the learning process. The cost of training aid equipment is around $75.
Basic grooming supplies
These dogs shed a lot every day, and they’re prone to shedding their coats once or twice a year. If you do not enjoy getting covered in dog hair, this is most likely not the breed for you.
Naturally, brushing them will help reduce the amount of shedding, but grooming these dogs will take up nearly half an hour.
Apart from daily brushing and weekly ear cleaning, they require a little more grooming for bathing when they’re dirty.
Additionally, you’ll want to trim their nails if they become excessively long, but because these dogs are constantly on the move, they usually file their claws down on their own. The total cost of these basic grooming is around $80 to $100.
Crate, dog pad, dog bed
When crate training your Akita Shepherd, it is important to use caution. Crate training is not a punishment; rather, it teaches your pup to cherish me-time, keep himself occupied, and even soothe himself when he is concerned. Potty training of Akita Shepherd is made more accessible using a crate training system. A sturdy crate for this enormous dog may be purchased for around $75, including a crate pad. You may also place a cozy chew-proof dog bed inside the cage to ensure that your dog is comfortable while traveling. This will cost around $50.
Toys
A sturdy toy and toy accessories for this enormous dog are required to endure its size and strength. It is a good idea to invest in robust toys that will last longer and are safe for your young Akita Shepherd puppy because even a little puppy has amazing strength. The price ranges between $50 and $75.
Strong leashes
For safety’s sake, you’ll need a sturdy leash, no-pull halter, and collar when your veterinarian gives you the green light to take your Akita Shepherd for a walk in the fresh air. Check to see that the leashes and collars you buy are chew-resistant before you buy them. You should anticipate spending roughly $20 on them regularly.
Bowls for food and water
Make an investment in sturdy bowls that will not easily tip over. Stainless steel bowls are a wonderful choice for any occasion. Alternatively, you may lay a rubber cushion under the bowls to keep the mess confined and prevent the bowls from sliding and skidding. The price is around $20-$25.
| Item | Cost |
| Collar-leash set | $20 |
| Food-water bowls | $15 – $20 |
| Sturdy chew-proof dog bed | From $50 |
| Sturdy crate | From $50 |
| Mats for containing food messes | $10 |
| Sturdy toys and training accessories | $50 – $75 |
| Grooming tools – brush, comb, dental supplies, shampoo, nail clippers, etc. | $75 |
| Poop bags | $10 |
| Potty pads for indoor training | $10 |
Akita Shepherd Training Cost
Akita Shepherds are high-spirited dogs who are generally friendly but can be furious if not trained properly. They are healthy and have a long lifetime, which is particularly impressive for a giant dog, and they are often easy to teach.
You may train your Akita Shepherd in a variety of various methods depending on your preferences. When it comes to training your Akita Shepherd, you may choose between personalized in-home training and group training sessions at a nearby facility. Dog trainers specializing in training this unique breed work one-on-one with customers to create customized training programs for them. Additionally, they provide counseling with the customer as well as specialist behavior training for difficulties like aggressiveness, fear, excessive barking, and other similar concerns. However, private training is not only inadequate, but it is also excessively expensive in most cases.
Additionally, there is the option of taking a board and train. You may decide to place your dog with a trainer who will teach him the basic instructions that he will need to know in the future.
Because of the Covid-19 virus epidemic, online dog training has also become increasingly popular among dog owners. Using this cutting-edge method, trainers assist parents in training their pups by conducting video chat sessions with the puppies themselves.
The selection of dog training options is available at several price points, which are explained in the accompanying table:
| Dog training type | Cost |
| Private lessons | As low as $20 an hour to almost $400 depending on your area, trainer, and your pet’s needs |
| Group lessons | About $125 for 6-week classes |
| Board and train | $1000 to $2500 for 2-weeks of boarding |
| Online training with private trainers | $90-$350 |
| Online training via YouTube videos | Free |
Akita Shepherd Food Costs
It is probable that your Akita Shepherd puppy will have weaned itself off of its mother’s milk and will be consuming puppy food by the time your breeder passes the puppy over to you and your family. During the first few weeks, you can continue to feed your pet the food that he or she is accustomed to eating. Your mature Akita Shepherd will weigh between 75 and 120 pounds and stand between 24 and 28 inches tall at the withers when completely matured.
Dog food made from dried ingredients, such as kibble, is an ideal choice for your adult Akita Shepherd. Keep in mind high-energy dog breeds such as Akita Shepherd needs a considerable amount of protein, complex carbohydrates, and vital fats regularly to maintain their general health.
Dog food that is touted as being high in protein at a reasonable cost is readily available on the market in large quantities. On the other hand, they are more likely to include soy in their products. Dogs have flatulence due to soy eating, which is one of the adverse effects of soy consumption. Look for dog food that has a well-balanced ratio of protein, vitamins, and minerals and is free of fillers such as soy, corn, fillers, by-products, and artificial flavors, among other things. It is recommended that protein constitute at least 22.5 % protein in the diet. Akita Shepherds should be fed high-protein meals such as chicken, rabbit, turkey, fish, and other meats.
Wet food is an additional option that is suitable for the majority of dogs. When transitioning from dry to canned or wet food, it has been noted that some Akita Shepherds get diarrhea. Other Akita Shepherds experience behavioral problems due to their canned food addiction. If your Akita Shepherd displays indications of dyspepsia or exhibits any of the behavioral difficulties listed above, visit your veterinary doctor before making any dietary changes for him or her.
How much to feed?
Feed your Akita Shepherd puppy high-quality food three times every day.
- A three-month-old Akita Shepherd will require at least three to four cups of kibble each day, split into three meals.
- According to the size of your Akita Shepherd, 1.5 to 2 cans (3.5 to 5 oz) of canned or wet food should be fed to him or her each day.
The following table provides a summary of the monthly costs of several types of food for Akita Shepherds:
| Type of food | Approximate quantity for 80.lb Akita Shepherd per month | Cost |
| Dry dog food | 100-180 lb. | $150-$170 |
| Canned or wet food | 150 cans of 5 oz. each | $230-$250 |
| Freeze-dried food | 100 cups | $180-$200 |
| Raw food (commercially prepared) | 30 lb. | $100 – $120 |
Comparing Akita Shepherd Dog Food Costs
The Akita Shepherd is a huge, muscular dog with a lot of energy and stamina for running. To its advantage, it is not choosy about what it consumes and will happily swallow almost anything that is placed in front of it. It is also unnecessary to restrict the use of this potent canine food; nevertheless, you should supply it with a high-quality meal that is full of protein, healthy fats, complex carbs, and antioxidants.
Select food that is of human-grade quality and has natural components. If you like, you may provide your dog with wet or canned food, kibble, or dry dog food. Raw meat is not always the best option for your Akita Shepherd’s teeth. Kibble is often a preferable option.
If at all feasible, keep an eye on your Akita Shepherd’s health frequently. If your Akita Shepherd appears to be gaining weight despite moderate exercise, you may need to limit the amount of food that it consumes. In this situation, your veterinarian can be of assistance to you.
There are multiple high-quality dog meals available on the market. Several Akita Shepherd dog diets are summarized in the following table and their price range and benefits.
| Name of dog food | Features | Price per lb. |
| Purina One Smart Blend Natural Large Breed Formula | Specially formulated for large, energetic dogs. Contains glucosamine | $1.01/lb. |
| Taste of the Wild Dry Dog Food
| It contains roasted venison and bison to give nearly 32% protein to your energetic Akita Shepherd. It is made in the USA. It also contains probiotics for digestion. | $1.86/lb. |
| Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food
| Contains natural ingredients. The first ingredient is real meat—no fillers, preservatives, etc. | $1.73/lb. |
| Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food
| Vet formulated food with natural protein. It contains glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health and omega fatty acids and vitamin E for a healthy coat | $1.66/lb. |
Medical Costs of Akita Shepherd
Vaccination costs
As recommended by the AAHA, you will need to provide your Akita Shepherd with several basic vaccines to protect him against potentially lethal infections like parvovirus, hepatitis, distemper, and other illnesses.
Additional vaccines for your Akita Shepherd, such as those for Bordetella, Leptospirosis, Borrelia Burgdorferi, and other infections, will be necessary in addition to the mandatory core immunizations.
Some vets charge by the injection, but others charge by the package of vaccines given to the animal. The majority of vaccines will cost between $20 and $40, depending on how much the veterinarian practice will be required to pay for the vaccinations. Depending on where you go, some low-cost clinics charge between $10 and $20 for each injection they provide. In certain states, state requirements dictate vaccine prices, which are established by the state legislature.
You may also take your Akita Shepherd to a veterinarian, who will immunize him and do some other preventative examinations on him in addition to the vaccinations. Among other things, preventative services such as yearly checkups, periodic exams, deworming, and screening blood tests are provided by certain practices. Preventive packages of this sort might cost as much as $200.
Aside from that, you will need to deworm your puppies regularly. Your breeder will deworm Akita Shepherd pups between the ages of 2-3 weeks. Aside from that, you must deworm your puppy every two weeks until he or she reaches the age of six months or so. Following the age of 12 months, deworm your Akita Shepherd on a three-to-four-monthly basis. Deworming drugs can range in price from $15 to $45, depending on the manufacturer.
Flea and tick management is vital for Akita Shepherd owners who want to keep their pets safe. If you do not offer this, your pet may suffer considerably. Flies and ticks may cause severe itching, and if their numbers are not managed, they have the potential to spread to wide areas of the body. Therefore, regularly use items that protect against fleas and ticks on your pets, such as shampoos, sprays, collars, powders, and spot treatments.
The costs of core and non-core vaccines, as well as the expenses of emergency care and the costs of different medical procedures for dogs, are all included in this table:
| Name of the Vaccine | Age to give | Cost |
| Canine parvovirus | 6 to 10 weeks, repeat at 9 to 10 weeks, 12-13 weeks, and 15-17 weeks. | About $75 to $100 for all core vaccines |
| Canine distemper | Same as above | |
| Hepatitis | Same as above | |
| Rabies | 15-17 weeks and booster at one year. Also, based on state laws | |
| Leptospirosis | 9-10 weeks and 12-13 weeks. | $15-$35 |
| Optional vaccines/non-core vaccine – Lyme disease and Canine influenza | 12-13 weeks and booster at 15-17 weeks. | $20-$50 |
| Bordetella (also non-core vaccine) | 6-7 weeks and booster at 9-10 weeks | $19-$45 |
| Flea and tick | Starting from 8 weeks of age/as advised by your vet | $50 for a 3-month supply |
| Deworming | Start at 2-3 weeks, then repeat every two weeks until four deworming. Adult Akita Shepherds to be dewormed every three months | $15-$45, depending on the brand of medicine. |
This table shows the projected costs of therapeutic tests for Akita Shepherds:
| Name of test | Cost |
| Routine checkup | $50 and $250 |
| Spaying or neutering | $160-$200 |
| Vaccines | $20-$50 |
| Physical exam | $45 – $55 |
| Fecal exam | $25-$55 |
| Heartworm test | $45-$50 |
| Dental cleaning | $70-$400 |
| Allergy testing | $195-$300 |
Costs of special tests
| Name of test | Cost |
| Bloodwork | $80-$100 |
| X-ray | Up to $200 |
| USG | Up to $500 |
| Hospitalization | $600-$3500 |
| Emergency surgery | Up to $5000 |
Akita Shepherd Inherited Diseases
Akita Shepherds are generally considered to be a more healthy breed than their purebred parents. It’s a good idea to be familiar with the health disorders that their parents are prone to because there’s always the risk that your Akita Shepherd will inherit some of these diseases.
Breeders should avoid breeding Akita Shepherds who have the following ailments, which are considered heritable anomalies, and should avoid breeding Akita Shepherds that have these illnesses:
Haemophilia A
It is a bleeding disorder that is related to the X chromosome and is caused by a deficit in the clotting factor Factor VIII. Haemophilia A should be tested in male Akita Shepherds with bleeding tendencies. The dogs should not be mated since they will pass the condition on to their female progeny, who may be asymptomatic carriers of the disease. If your Akita Shepherd is susceptible to bleeding, you should consult your veterinarian. Akita Shepherds suffering from this ailment typically require a complete bone marrow transplant, which can cost anywhere from $10000 and $15,000 in most cases.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
It is a degenerative ailment that affects Akita Shepherds that begins with decreased eyesight in dim light (night blindness) and advances to complete blindness. A DNA test is available to diagnose this illness, and the therapy itself costs around $2000.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia affects several large dog breeds, including Akita Shepherd, and they are regrettably not exempt from this condition. Any abnormal development of the ball and socket of the hip joint that eventually results in painful arthritis is known as spondylolisthesis.
Both parents must have excellent hip scores in order to be considered. Anyone considering purchasing a puppy should also want to see the OFA certification stating that both of the parents’ hips are free of any problems. Hip dysplasia treatment costs around $3000.
Von Willebrands Disease (vWD)
It is a clotting factor disorder that causes significant bleeding in Akita Shepherds that are affected by it. Antigen testing should be conducted on Akita Shepherds who have a history of bleeding to rule out the possibility of vWD. Its therapy costs around $5000 on average.
Pet Insurance for your Akita Shepherd
Pet insurance for Akita Shepherds is often more expensive than insurance for other dog breeds, which is understandable. This is because it is a one-of-a-kind breed with a genetic composition that is difficult to come by. In comparison to purebred dog insurance prices, mixed-bred dog insurance premiums are a little less expensive. Research and select a plan that provides full coverage with no gaps due to these considerations.
Veterinary expenditures, both unexpected and routine, are covered by insurance providers that have been approved. Some companies will even pay for the training and grooming of your dog. Certain firms provide incentives and reimbursements for procedures including spaying and neutering, nail trimming, dental cleaning, and nutritional supplements, among other things. A large number of insurance providers will decrease your deductible by $50 for every year that you avoid submitting a claim with them.
The following table displays how several insurance companies stack up against one another in terms of price and service:
| Name | Pros | Cons | Cost |
| Embrace | It covers some pre-existing though curable conditions | It could take up to 15 days to process accident/illness claims | Basic coverage starts from $14 per month. |
| Figo | No network limitations, 30-day money-back guarantee if you don’t like their service, voted one of the best insurance for pets in 2021 | Has an enrollment exam | Plans average at $1.50 per day |
| Healthy Paws | No.1Customer-Rated 2010 – 2021 No maximum annual or lifetime payouts. Most claims are processed within two days
| Not for older pets | $40 basic plan |
Additional Costs of Akita Shepherd
Grooming
Akita Shepherds have a double coat, so regular brushing of your pet is required, however, to ensure that any loose hair is removed. Additionally, brush your pet and clean its teeth daily. If you want to get your dog’s hair trimmed and styled by a professional, the cost of basic services such as bathing, trimming, and nail care would range from $40 to $75, depending on your area.
Home setup
Ideal living conditions for an Akita Shepherd include a large home with a secure backyard. It’s reasonable to conclude that this large and energetic dog is not a good fit for an apartment. If you have an open lawn, you may want to think about putting up a sturdy fence around it to keep animals out. You should anticipate at least $1000 for a fence installation in most cases.
Dog walking
A great deal of physical exercise is required for Akita Shepherds. It’s vital to remember that these dogs were bred to hunt in packs and fight in dog fights when they were young. If you do not provide it with the exercise that it needs, it is likely to grow unwell, depressed, and perhaps indulge in improper behavior at times. According to the National Dog Walking Association, it is estimated that a 30-45-minute walk with a large breed of dog such as the Akita Shepherd will cost you an average of $35.
Travel/ pet sitting/boarding
If you have to leave your Akita Shepherd at home while you travel, you may want to consider hiring a dog sitter to come over and keep an eye on your pet while you are gone. They may walk your dog two to three times daily as an additional service. Dog boarding facilities are available if you cannot care for your pet due to a lack of time on your part. This might cost anything from $30 to $50 each night, depending on the location. For a large dog like an Akita Shepherd, a dog sitter will charge you around $25 per hour for his or her services. Depending on whether you decide to bring your Akita Shepherd along on your vacation, you’ll need to pay at least $120-$200 for one-way flight charges.
Key Takeaways – How Much Does an Akita Shepherd Cost?
First-year cost
While you are delighted to acquire this beautiful puppy, you should plan to spend at least $2000 on it throughout its first year. They do not cover the expense of obtaining the animal from a reputable breeding facility. Some breeders have even sought up to $2500 for extremely rare Akita Shepherds. First-year prices include vaccinations, routine checkups, basic supplies, spaying/neutering, and dog training.
Monthly expenses
Proper food for Akita Shepherds may cost up to $200 per month, depending on the breed. Make sure to account for both anticipated and unforeseen veterinarian bills, as well as additional spending on toys, nourishment, and other items. This vet service might cost as much as $300 per hour, depending on the circumstances.
Annual costs
Akita Shepherd’s upkeep might cost upwards of $1000 each year after the first year. These expenditures include flea and tick treatment, four-yearly deworming, food and treat prices, basic medical charges, dog walking and training fees, as well as any unanticipated veterinarian expenses.
Costs throughout a lifetime
The average lifespan of an Akita Shepherd is around 10-14 years, depending on the species. Spending an average of $1000 every year for the rest of your life will result in a total expenditure of more than $13000. If your Akita Shepherd suffers from health problems in his or her later years, these expenses can quickly mount up and become prohibitively expensive to bear. Prepare to spend at least $2000 a year on counseling, as well as hospitalization if required. Pet insurance may be able to save you a significant amount of money on these expenses.
We hope that this comprehensive guide will assist you in preparing for and budgeting for your Akita Shepherd’s arrival.
