Large breed Active energy Long coat Working Group

Akita

Courageous, Dignified, Profoundly Loyal

Akitas are burly, heavy-boned spitz-type dogs of imposing stature. Standing 24 to 28 inches at the shoulder, Akitas have a dense coat that comes in several colors, including white. The head is broad and massive, and is balanced in the rear by a full, curled-over tail. The erect eโ€ฆ

โš–๏ธ 70โ€“130 lbs ๐Ÿ“ 24โ€“28" ๐ŸŽ‚ 10โ€“13 years ๐Ÿง  Intelligence #54 โ€” average

Traits

Akita Characteristics

Energy

80%

Shedding

60%

Trainability

100%

Grooming

80%

Friendliness

60%

Coat Type

Long coat Daily Brushing

Breed data

Data Snapshot

๐Ÿง  #54

Intelligence

๐ŸŽ‚ 10.2yr

Average lifespan

๐Ÿ’ฐ $21K

Lifetime cost

๐Ÿ– $710/yr

Annual food estimate

๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘ง Great

With kids

๐Ÿฉบ 1

Known conditions

Known genetic concerns: hip problems

Owner resources

Matched Resources for Akita Owners

Contextual partner picks from the PupWiki affiliate pipeline. These are matched by breed size, energy, training needs, lifestyle, and ownership intent.

Akita food & nutrition tools
ChefPaw Dog Food Maker
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ChefPaw Dog Food Maker

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Akita training & walking gear
๐Ÿพ
JugBow ยท Training

JugBow No-Pull Training Harness

Dual-clip training harness with front and back D-rings. Reflective stitching, padded chest plate, anโ€ฆ

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For Akita owners
The Veteran - Custom Pet Canvas
Crown and Paw ยท Gifts

The Veteran - Custom Pet Canvas

Premium 8" x 10" custom pet canvas. Turn your pet into a legendary military veteran.

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Affiliate disclosure: PupWiki may earn a commission from qualifying partner links, at no extra cost to you. Availability and pricing can change.

Care basics

Akita Care Tips

Needs 60-90 minutes active exercise daily; thrives with a job or sport.

Seasonal shedder โ€” daily brushing during spring and fall coat blows is essential.

Coat requires daily brushing to prevent matting; professional grooming every 6-8 weeks.

Highly trainable โ€” excels with positive reinforcement; start obedience classes early.

Owner fit

Who the Akita Suits

  • Recommended for experienced owners โ€” higher owner difficulty rating of 7/10.

  • Better suited to homes with outdoor space โ€” this large needs room to move.

  • Naturally protective and independent, this breed fits best with early socialization and clear routines.

  • Working heritage means structured activity matters โ€” under-stimulation can lead to problem behaviors.

Before you choose

Make an Informed Akita Decision

Related guides

All Akita Guides

Akita Cost Calculator

Puppy price, annual costs, food estimate, and lifetime ownership planning.

Editorial guides