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A Tosa
Photo: Ludivine HOUDAS, adapted by Caronna, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
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Tosa

Also called Japanese Fighting Dog, Japanese Mastiff, Tosa Fighting Dog, Tosa Inu and Tosa Ken

  • Needs space

The Tosa is a large and powerful breed of dog that was originally bred for dog fighting in Japan. They are loyal and protective, and make excellent guard dogs.

Weight
90–198 lb (41–90 kg)
Height at the shoulder
22–32 in (55–81 cm)
Life span
10–12 years
Exercise
About 60 minutes a day
Coat
Short
Origin
Japan (mid-19th century)

Traits

Family and friends

  • OK with children
  • Wary of other dogs
  • Reserved with strangers

Home and activity

  • Moderately active
  • Needs space
  • Barks a little
  • Fairly easy to train

Care

  • Very little grooming
  • Sheds moderately
  • Drools sometimes

Temperament

Aloof with strangers Calm Loyal Obedient Quiet Vigilant

Coat colours

Apricot, black with markings, brindle, fawn, pied, red and yellow

Males and females

MalesFemales
Weight 119–198 lb (54–90 kg) 90–141 lb (41–64 kg)
Height 24–32 in (60–81 cm) 22–30 in (55–75 cm)

Recognized by

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and United Kennel Club (UKC)


Caring for a Tosa

Find pet services near you that suit this breed.

Veterinarians

Check-ups and vaccinations through its 10–12 years.

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Dog walkers

Needs about 60 minutes of exercise a day.

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Dog trainers

Can be stubborn: a trainer helps from the start.

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Pet sitters

Someone to look after it while you’re away.

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Breeds of a similar size

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A Broholmer
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Broholmer

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  • 8–10 years
A Caucasian Shepherd Dog
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Caucasian Shepherd Dog

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  • 99–220 lb (45–100 kg)
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An Estrela Mountain Dog
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Estrela Mountain Dog

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  • 77–132 lb (35–60 kg)
  • 12–14 years

Sources

Breed details from The Dog API.