Akita vs Saint Bernard Vet Costs
Akita owners spend $620-$1,500/yr at the vet. Saint Bernard: $750-$2,000/yr. That's a $315/yr gap in average costs. Here's where the money goes.
Akita
$8,000-$18,000
lifetime vet costs (11 yrs)
high health risk
Lifetime Gap
$1,000
Akita costs less
Saint Bernard
$8,000-$20,000
lifetime vet costs (9 yrs)
very high health risk
Vet Cost Breakdown
| Category | Akita | Saint Bernard | Lower Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Vet Cost (avg) | $1,060/yr | $1,375/yr | Akita |
| Annual Range | $620-$1,500 | $750-$2,000 | - |
| Preventive Care | $450/yr | $600/yr | Akita |
| Emergency Risk Budget | $700/yr | $900/yr | Akita |
| Pet Insurance | $60-$110/mo | $80-$150/mo | Akita |
| Spay/Neuter | $250-$600 | $400-$900 | Akita |
| Lifetime Vet Cost | $8,000-$18,000 | $8,000-$20,000 | Akita |
Akita Health Risks
high risk · large, 70-130 lbs · 11-year lifespan · 2-3 visits/year
- Hip dysplasia (20-25%) $1,500-$6,000
- Hypothyroidism (15-20%) $200-$600
- Immune-mediated diseases (pemphigus, VKH) (5%) $500-$5,000
Saint Bernard Health Risks
very high risk · giant, 140-180 lbs · 9-year lifespan · 2-4 visits/year
- Hip and elbow dysplasia (30-35%) $1,500-$8,000
- Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) (10-15%) $500-$3,000
- Bloat (GDV) (5-8%) $3,000-$8,000
Breed-Specific Procedures
Akita
- Hip screening X-rays $250-$500
- Thyroid panel $150-$300
- Dental cleaning $350-$750
Saint Bernard
- Hip/elbow OFA screening $300-$600
- Cardiac screening (echo) $300-$700
- Dental cleaning $400-$900
Insurance: Is It Worth It?
Akita
$60-$110/mo ($720-$1,320/yr)
high risk. Insurance is close to mandatory for this breed. One surgery can exceed years of premiums.
Saint Bernard
$80-$150/mo ($960-$1,800/yr)
very high risk. Insurance is close to mandatory for this breed. One surgery can exceed years of premiums.
Premiums from Nationwide, ASPCA, and Embrace. Accident + illness plans, $500 deductible, 80% reimbursement.