Japanese Akitainu
The Japanese Akitainu is described by the AKC as dignified, alert, aloof, a member of the Miscellaneous Class, originally from Japan.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 25-27.5 inches (male), 22.5-25 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 65-75 pounds (male), 55-65 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 10–12+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Dignified / Alert / Aloof [1] |
| AKC group | Miscellaneous Class [1] |
| Origin | Japan [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 216 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
The breed has a high prey drive and may be dog-aggressive; therefore, it is recommended to keep the Japanese Akitainu on leash in public spaces or around other animals and unfamiliar people. Regular walks and mental exercise are highly recommended for the breed. With proper training and precautions, they also make fine companions for outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. [1]
Grooming
A slicker brush may be used during grooming sessions during normal times. However, the Japanese Akitainu blows its undercoat twice a year. Profusely. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Autoimmune disorders, for which there are currently no genetic tests, such as sebaceous adenitis, uveodermatalogic syndrome, pemphigus, discoid lupus, food and environmental allergies, etc., affect this breed. There have been cases of amelogenesis imperfecta which can be screened for. The national breed club requires testing of hips and eyes and strongly recommends screenings for patella, thyroid, and amelogenesis imperfecta/enamel hypoplasia issues. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Patella Evaluation, Hip Evaluation, Elbow Evaluation, Thyroid Evaluation, Eye Evaluation, Teeth. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a giant dog (median $607) | $350 – $1,373 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- It ranked No. 216 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Akitainu.” [1]
- The AKC lists Japan as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 6 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Patella Evaluation, Hip Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ⚠️ Think twice: Anyone who hates vacuuming: AKC rates shedding 5/5
Common questions
How long do Japanese Akitainus live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 10-12 years.
How big does a Japanese Akitainu get?
AKC breed information lists height 25-27.5 inches (male), 22.5-25 inches (female) and weight 65-75 pounds (male), 55-65 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a Japanese Akitainu?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For giant dogs like the Japanese Akitainu, a typical vet bill runs $350 – $1,373 (median $607). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.