The Tosa is a large, powerful Japanese breed developed for dog fighting. They are known for their courage, loyalty, and potential for dominance, requiring experienced owners and early socialization.
Origin and Purpose
Developed in Japan as a fighting dog, combining various breeds like the Shikoku Inu, Bulldog, Mastiff, and Great Dane.
Appearance
Dimensions
Gender
Height
Weight
Female
21.5 to 25.5 inches (55 to 65 cm)
88 to 130 pounds (40 to 60 kg)
Male
24.5 to 27.5 inches (62 to 70 cm)
130 to 200 pounds (59 to 90 kg)
Coat
Attribute
Notes
Color
Red, fawn, apricot, brindle, black (sometimes with white markings)
Type
Short, dense, and hard
Length
Short
Care
Attribute
Notes
Shedding
Moderate
Grooming
Weekly
Drooling
Moderate
Body
Attribute
Notes
Head
Broad with a pronounced stop
Skull
Broad and powerful
Ears
Relatively small and thin, hanging down
Eyes
Relatively small and dark brown
Nose
Large, black
Muzzle
Moderately long and powerful
Teeth
Scissors bite
Neck
Thick and muscular
Forequarters
Well-developed
Fore Legs
Straight and strong
Hindquarters
Muscular
Hind Legs
Strong and well-muscled
Feet
Tight and cat-like
Tail
Thick at the base, tapering towards the end, reaching to the hocks
Gait
Powerful and agile
Temperament
Courageous, calm, and loyal, but can be dominant and reserved; requires early socialization and training.
Social
Attribute
Notes
Affectionate with Family
Yes
Good with Children
Potentially, with proper supervision and early socialization.
Good with Dogs
Potentially problematic, requires careful introductions and may not tolerate other dogs.
Good with Cats
Not recommended due to their strong prey drive
Openness to Strangers
Reserved and wary of strangers
Playfulness Level
Moderate
Protective Nature
Very Protective
Adaptability Level
Moderate, best suited to a home with experience handling large, dominant breeds
Working Roles
Primarily a fighting dog, now sometimes a guard dog
Exercise Needs
Moderate; requires daily walks and mental stimulation.
Health
Prone to hip dysplasia, bloat, and other large breed health issues
Additional Notes
Requires an experienced owner. Not suitable for first-time dog owners or apartment living. Strong potential for aggression if not properly socialized and trained.
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