Akita Inu is one of the most popular and loved dog breeds in Japan.
It became popular due to the story of a faithful dog named Hachiko who waited for its late owner at the railway station for 9 years.
And after the death of the Hachiko a statue was erected in the Shibuya Station where it used to wait for its master.
There is also a movie based on this story called Hachi which spread Akita’s popularity even further internationally.
But how popular is this dog in India ?
How much does it cost ?
That’s what we are going to talk about in this post.
Akita Dog Price In India (2023)
Akita Inu is undoubtedly one of the most expensive dog breeds in the world.
On average, an Akita In India may cost in the range of ₹90,000-₹1,40,000, and even more if you import it.
The availability of this dog in India is very low and that’s one of the reasons why it’s so expensive.
Another reason could be because of its famous story of loyalty which made the worth of this higher.
But there are a lot of other factors that may influence the price of this dog.
Factors that may influence Akita Dog Price In India
The followings are the factors that usually influence the price of an Akita Dog or any other dog breed in India:
Age: The older the age of a dog the lesser the price would be since people prefer to buy dogs when they are in puppy stage.
Gender: Gender plays a huge role in the price of a dog and the female ones are always less expensive than the male ones.
Place: Purchasing a dog from metro cities in India will always be expensive compared to non metro cities.
Health: This is no brainer that a healthy dog which properly vaccinated with no health issues is bound to be expensive
Breeder: Purchasing a dog from a well known ethical breeder will cost you a fortune and because they produce quality breeds and they consider the health of the mother dog and don’t exploit them for the sake of money.
Traits of An Akita Dog
| Height | Male: 64 – 70 cm, Female: 58 – 64 cm |
| Weight | Male: 32 – 39 kg , Female: 23 – 29 kg |
| Lifespan | 9-12 kg |
| Price in India | ₹90,000-₹1,40,000 |
| Popularity in India | Low |
| Origin | Japan and America |
| Color | White, Brindle, Red Fawn, Sesame |
| Temperament | Loyal, Stubborn, Intelligent, Independent etc. |
| Maintenance Level | High |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Common Health Issue | Hip Dysplasia |
| Litter SIze | 3-12 |
| Coat | Double |
Akita Dogs are originally native to Japan. The word “Inu” actually means Dog in Japanese.
The actual purebred Akita (Shiba Inu) used to be smaller than the modern Akitas known as American Akita
During the Second World War this breed was on the brink of extinction so in order to save them from being extinct they were bred with many other breeds mainly with German Shepherd.
Hence, the new breed was formed which is now known as American Akita.
Shiba Inu is the one that is closest to the pure breed of the original Akita Inu.
Difference between American Akita and Japanese Akita (Akita Inu)
Different countries refer to this dog in different names and some countries their names are interchanged which actually causes a lot of confusion.
Even though both of these dogs come from the same ancestry they are quite different in terms of looks.
The American Akita was actually mixed with German Shepherd during the second world war in Japan so they look a bit like German Shepherds whereas Japanese Akita Inu looks more like a fox.
American Akitas are larger and heavier than the Japanese Akitas, often 4 inches shorter and 20 pounds lighter.
American Akita come in many combinations of colors whereas the Japanese one must be either brown, red, sesame or pure white.
Difference Between Akita Inu and Shiba Inu
Unlike American Akita, these two look almost similar in appearance which makes it hard for people to differentiate who don’t know about this breed.
The main difference between these two dogs is their size and weight, Akitas are larger and heavier compared to Shiba Inu.
Akitas coat is much more dense and thick compared to Shibha Inu
An akita weighs 32-39 kg for males and 23 kg – 29 kg for females whereas a Shiba Inu weighs about 8-11kg for males and 7-10 kg for females.
Hightwise, akita stands 64-70 kg for males and for males 57-64 cm, the Shiba Inu stands at 35-43 cm for males and females 33-40 cm.
That’s quite a difference
The Akita Inu comes in the following colors: Red throne, White, Sesame & Brindle and Shibha Inu comes in: Red, White, Sesame and Black & Tan.
The color that confuses most people is the Red Color. In photos they look almost the same and with a fox-like face that both of these breeds have, people think they are the same breed.
Things You Should Know Before getting an Akita Dog In India
Things you should know before getting an Akita Dog in India are as follows:
Might Not Suitable for Indian Climate: It is a double coated dog which makes them more suitable for cold and snowy places just like Husky.
Akita originates from a snowy place in Japan with the same name as the breed where it constantly snows in winter.
You most probably have to import this dog from overseas, which might not be a great idea because they may not be able to withstand the dynamic temperature of India.
High Maintenance: As any other foriegn it is also a very high maintenance and need a lot of care.
Not for Novice Dog Owners: If you have never owned a dog before Akitas are not really a great choice. Having an akita is very challenging and so unless you have the time and energy to put in you shouldn’t get this dog.
They need physical exercise and Training: Akitas are not house dogs they need regular physical exercise and training.
Not for small apartments: Akitas are large breed dogs who can reach a height well over 70 cm. They need a large space to move around and play so if you can’t offer them that space you shouldn’t consider getting this dog.
Every Expensive Dog: Akitas are not only expensive to get but also maintaining them requires a lot of money.
FAQs about Akita Dog In India
Can Akitas survive In India ?
They will definitely have a hard time in India because of their thick coat and also they originated from a place where they have cold temperatures.
And even AC wouldn’t do much to help.
They are similar to Huskies.
Is Akita Dog Dangerous ?
Akitas are not necessarily a dangerous dog breed but they are definitely a very complex dog to deal with.
An experienced and abusive owner who doesn’t know how to handle them may later lead them to have aggressive behaviour.
They are very protective and powerful dogs and since they are a large type of dogs their attacks can be pretty dangerous.
That’s it is always advisable for to be properly trained to handle these dog befoe you decide to one.
Do Akitas attack their owners ?
They usually don’t but if they are not properly trained and their needs are unfulfilled then they will create aggressive behaviour towards people and their owners as well.
They are really quick to act on their own so it is really necessary for them to be properly trained and socialized from day one.
Why are Akitas so loyal ?
Akitas are just as loyal as any other dogs are but because of the famous story of Hachiko and the movie, somehow Akitas became a symbol for loyalty.
But the fact is that Akitas are independent dogs and don’t really want their owner around them all the time.
They like to do whatever they want and dislike being petted constantly.
Can two Akitas live together ?
Yes, they can but it will be a lot of work for you as an owner of those two dogs.
Having one Akita is already stressful enough, so having two Akitas would be very challenging.
You have to properly monitor their actions and correct them.
And their Stubborness doesn’t help either.
So it is only advisable for those who are experienced enough to handle them.
Are Akitas stronger than German Shepherds ?
Yes, one of the varieties of Akitas is definitely much larger and heavier compared to German Shepherd.
The American Akita is part German Shepherd so they look similar in appearance.
They are muscular and can be a greater guard dog than German Shepherds.
Do Akitas Shed a lot ?
They shed less on a daily basis but in the spring and fall they shed like crazy that if you touch them a whole clump will come off in your hand.
And this happens twice every year so you need to be prepared for this earlier.
You should have a vacuum and a quality brush to make your task easier.
Are Akitas easy to train ?
Akitas are independent and very stubborn dogs so training them could be a challenging task.
So that’s why it is always necessary to train them from day one so that it would be easier for the owner to handle them in the future.
How many types of Akitas are there ?
There are two types of Akitas : Akita Inu (Japanese Akita) and American Akita.
They look different from either but they have descended from the same breed.
American Akitas are a lot stronger and heavier compared to Japanese variants.
Which is better, Akita Inu or Shiba Inu ?
It is difficult to tell which is better because both have the same temperament.
Shiba Inu is better for those people who want a smaller dog and which would be earlier to control because of their size.
Akita Inu would be a bit difficult to control because of their huge body and their stubbornness.
Can Akita Inu be left alone?
Akitas can be left alone since they are very independent and territorial in nature, and they like to do things on their own.
So they will be fine if you leave them at home alone.
But that doesn’t mean that they can be left alone frequently; an Akita needs to be constantly monitored and should be spent time with or they might make a mess.
Do Akitas like to cuddle?
Yes, they like to cuddle but not as much as other dogs like Labrador that constantly craves attention and love.
Akitas don’t like to be petted constantly but that differs from every other dog.
Can Akitas be trusted off leash?
An akita should be trained really well to be trusted off leash. They like to move around on their own and if they find something suspicious or threatening they get out of control andrun after them.
Akitas are generally really hard to make them obey orders and if you can’t do that then it’s better to not let them off leash when you are outside.
Otherwise you will regret it.
In which part of India Akitas are better suited ?
If you live in the north side of India like Shimla, Manali, Ladakh or Himalayas but then again those places are not really developed and finding a vet in these places is next to impossible.
In a nutshell it is not worth bringing them to a place like India where they are not suited.
Will an Akita attack an intruder?
Akitas are very territorial and protective which make them one of the great guard dogs and it will not let an intruder inside your house definitely be on the fierce mode if they feel threatened by strangers.
Do Akitas bark a lot?
Akitas are known for not barking a lot but that doesn’t make them a bad guard dog; they can be as loud and aggressive when they want to be.
Is maintaining Akitas Expensive ?
Yes, akitas are definitely way too expensive for Indians, the maintaining cost of this would be way more than someone’s average salary here.
Why are Akita dogs dangerous?
They are considered dangerous because of their large size and their attacks are very powerful as well much similar to a pitbull.
They are hard to control as well and that’s why they are not really a good choice for novice owners.
How much food do akitas need ?
An adult akita will require about 5-6 cups of dry dog food split into two meals everyday; these measurements will differ according to their size, age and activity level of the dog.
Why are Akitas so mean?
Akitas may seem rude and mean because of their independent nature and their sheer stubbornness.
They like to act on their own and don’t like being ordered and also they don’t like to be touched all the time they need their space and that’s how they like to live.
This doesn’t mean they don’t love you, it’s just that sometimes they like to be in their zone and will come to you if they need love.
How do you know if an Akita likes you?
Just like any other dog it will wag its tail and try to approach you and give you kisses but they are not that friendly with unknowns.
What human food is good for Akitas?
Chicken, Fish, Milk, Peanut Butter, Popcorns and carrots are some of the best human foods you can give to Akitas.
Make sure you always boil or cook the chicken before you give it to your dogs. Akitas are very picky eaters. They take their time when they eat.
Some of the Akitas have a very sensitive stomach and some food doesn’t suit them so it is always better to be careful before you give anything to your Dog.
What are the most health problems Akitas have ?
Hip Dysplasia is the most common health issue that an Akita might encounter and some other diseases like: Microphthalmia, Retinal Dysplasia, Entropion, Pemphigus etc.
It is recommended that you visit the veterinarian every six months to avoid and identify any health concerns.
Are Akita Inus hypoallergenic ?
No, they are not hypoallergenic if you are allergic to dogs they might not be a good choice for you.
Can you shave an Akita Dog ?
No, you must never shave an Akita unless it is really necessary because their coat protects them from cold as well as sun rays.
Shaving them will only do more harm than good.
This doesn’t only apply to akita but you shouldn’t shave any dog’s coat unless it is for some serious medical issue.
How are akitas with babies ?
If you have babies or little kids at home it is better to keep this dog away from them not that they are violent to kids.
But since they are really large and strong it can unintentionally hurt them and also they are pretty possessive of the toys and their food so they may show some aggression at that time.
But they are raised alongside kids from a young age then they will safely around kids and will make a great family pet.
How are Akitas with Cats ?
Akitas and cats can get along at times, but these dogs have a strong hunting instinct and are unpredictable. Avoid letting your Akita alone with your cat, even if they appear to get along.
How are akitas with other dogs ?
As answered previously, it may get along with other dogs given that it has been properly socialized and trained enough to not hurt other dogs but despite that they may still be violent at times.
So it will probably be a good idea if there is only one dog in the house.
Where do akitas rank in intelligence ?
Akita dogs have a 5 out of 5 intellect ranking level, according to seasoned Akita dog specialists. The Akita ranks #54 among dog breeds in terms of intellect.
They really have a high level of Intelligence.
They quickly take up new tricks and signals, and they have a great sense for understanding what you’re trying to show them, even if you’re not being completely explicit.
Where can I adopt an Akita puppy ?
In India, it is really hard for you to adopt this puppy unless you come across someone who is ready to give this up for adoption, which is highly unlikely considering the price of this dog.
Conclusion
Now that we are at the end of the article the last question now is if this is the right dog for you ?
Short answer NO.
If you live in India this is not the right dog for you
Because they are definitely not made for this climate.
And moreover the Akita price in India and the price for maintaining them is so expensive that it will be hard to keep up for a regular Indian person.
It requires a lot of time and money to take care of this dog, not everyone has what it takes to be with this dog.
So unless you are really rich and you live in a colder place and are truly dedicated to this dog then this is not the one for you
We hope this article helps you in making the right decision.
You can leave some comments below if you have queries regarding this breed.