Quick Answer:
Akita grooming costs $70-$110 every 6-8 weeks. Their thick double coat sheds heavily ("blows coat") twice yearly. Regular brushing 2-3 times weekly, increasing to daily during shedding season, is essential.
Akita Grooming Costs
Here's what to expect for professional Akita grooming based on size and service type:
| Size | Weight | Basic Groom | Full Groom |
|---|---|---|---|
| Akita | 70-130 lbs | $70-$90 | $90-$110 |
Annual grooming costs: $560-$880 (based on grooming every 6-8 weeks).
For comparison with other breeds, see our complete dog grooming cost guide.
Akita Coat Type & Care
Akitas have a thick, plush double coat with a soft, dense undercoat and longer, harsh outer coat. The coat stands off the body and provides excellent insulation.
| Coat Type | Double |
| Shedding | Heavy seasonal (blows coat twice yearly) |
| Grooming Frequency | Every 6-8 weeks |
| Brushing | 2-3 times weekly (daily during shedding) |
| Grooming Difficulty | Medium-High |
Popular Akita Haircuts
Here are the most popular grooming styles for Akitas:
Bath and Brush
Best for: All Akita owners
Thorough bath, blow-dry, and brush out to maintain natural coat.
Maintenance: Regular brushing at home
De-shedding Treatment
Best for: Managing heavy shedding
Specialized treatment with de-shedding shampoo, high-velocity dryer, and thorough undercoat removal.
Maintenance: Significantly reduces loose hair
Teddy Bear Trim
Best for: Owners wanting a neater appearance
Light trimming to round out the coat and tidy up feathering. NOT a full shave.
Maintenance: Regular brushing still required
Akita Grooming Schedule
Follow this schedule to keep your Akita looking and feeling their best:
- Professional grooming: Every 6-8 weeks
- Brushing: 2-3 times weekly, daily when shedding
- Bathing: Every 6-8 weeks
- Nail trimming: Every 3-4 weeks
- Ear cleaning: Weekly
Puppy Grooming
Start grooming early to acclimate puppies to brushing and handling. Puppy coat will transition to adult coat around 1 year.
Senior Dog Grooming
Older Akitas may have thinner coats. Be gentle around joints and consider shorter sessions.
Find a Akita-experienced groomer
Search our directory for professional groomers experienced with Akitas and similar breeds.
Find Groomers Near MeCommon Akita Grooming Problems
Excessive Shedding
Akitas blow their entire undercoat twice yearly, creating massive amounts of loose fur.
Prevention: Regular de-shedding treatments and daily brushing during coat blow.
Undercoat Buildup
Dense undercoat can become impacted if not properly maintained.
Prevention: Use undercoat rake regularly and ensure complete drying after baths.
Hot Spots
Can develop from trapped moisture or matted undercoat.
Prevention: Thorough drying and regular coat maintenance.
At-Home Akita Grooming
Between professional grooms, here's what you need and how to maintain your Akita's coat at home.
Essential Tools
- Undercoat rake
- Slicker brush
- Pin brush
- High-velocity dryer (optional)
- De-shedding tool
- Wide-tooth comb
Grooming Tips
- Never shave an Akita - their double coat provides insulation
- Brush against the grain to reach undercoat
- Invest in a good vacuum
- Increase brushing frequency during shedding season
- Ensure coat is completely dry after bathing
Finding a Akita-Experienced Groomer
Not all groomers are equally experienced with every breed. Here's what to look for when choosing a groomer for your Akita:
- Find groomers experienced with double-coated breeds
- Ensure they have proper drying equipment
- Ask about de-shedding treatments
- Verify they understand not to shave double coats
For more tips, see our Signs of a Good Dog Groomer guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Akita grooming cost?▼
$70-$110 per session depending on size and coat condition.
Do Akitas shed a lot?▼
Yes, they shed moderately year-round and heavily twice yearly when they blow their coat.
Can you shave an Akita?▼
No, shaving a double-coated breed damages the coat and removes natural insulation.
How often should an Akita be groomed?▼
Every 6-8 weeks professionally, with regular brushing at home.
How do I manage Akita shedding?▼
Regular brushing, de-shedding treatments, and proper nutrition all help.
Why is my Akita shedding so much?▼
Akitas blow their undercoat twice yearly. This is normal and typically lasts 2-4 weeks.
The Bottom Line
Akita grooming requires professional appointments every 6-8 weeks, with costs ranging based on size and service level. Regular at-home maintenance between appointments keeps your Akita looking and feeling their best.
Find a groomer experienced with Akitas, establish a consistent grooming schedule, and maintain regular brushing at home. Your Akita will thank you with a healthy, beautiful coat.
Related Breed Guides
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