Tosa

Tosa
Size: Extra-Large
Other Names: Tosa Inu, Tosa Ken, Tosa Token, Japanese Tosa, Japanese Mastiff, Japanese Fighting Dog, Tosa Fighting Dog
Country of Origin: Japan
Accreditation:
American Kennel Club (AKC): FSS
United Kennel Club (UKC): Guardian Dog
Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA): Working Dogs
National Kennel Club (NKC): Recognized

The Tosa is a giant Japanese mastiff with a broad head, dropped ears, and a short red, fawn, or brindle coat.  The outline is that of a heavy fighting and guardian dog, quiet in stance and powerful in bone.

A large Japanese guardian for experienced handling and a fenced property; short coat, a serious quiet presence, not a first city dog.

The Tosa, or Tosa Inu, was created in Japan on Shikoku by crossing native fighting dogs with Western mastiffs.  It is a serious guardian type and is banned or restricted in some countries.  The AKC lists the breed in FSS; the UKC classes it as a Guardian Dog.
Height
22-30 inches
Weight
100-200 pounds
Color
Red, fawn, apricot, black, or brindle; small white marks may appear
Coat
Short, dense, and harsh
Lifespan
10–12 years
Litter size
6–12 puppies

Temperament

This is a calm, confident dog that can be dog-aggressive if it is not socialized.  It is typically reserved with strangers.  It is not a breed for a first-time owner or a busy street.

Training

Socialize early and keep the rules clear.  Strength without training is a problem.

Care and grooming

Wipe the short coat weekly.  Grow this giant slowly and keep adults lean.

Shedding

Low to moderate.

Health

As with other giant mastiffs, hip dysplasia and bloat can occur.  Do not exercise hard right after meals.

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