The Tosa is a large Japanese dog breed, known for its origins in the fighting world. Although it was developed for its physical and mental strength, it is also recognized for its balanced behavior and imposing stature. Today, the Tosa is an excellent guard and protection dog, while being a loyal and calm companion in an appropriate environment.
✨ Breed Characteristics
- Origin: Japan
- Hypoallergenic? No
📊 Quick Facts
- Weight:
- Male: 30-50 kg
- Female: 40-65 kg
- Height:
- Male: 60-80 cm
- Female: 55-70 cm
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Exercise needs: 1.5 hours per day
- Apartment living: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (Unsuitable for apartment living, needs a large outdoor space)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐☆
- Protective: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Playful: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐☆
- Hunter: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐☆
- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (May be suitable for children, but supervision is always necessary)
- Other animals: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (Must be socialized from a young age, but its protective nature can make it difficult with other animals)
- Strangers: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (Reserved, even wary of strangers)
- Apartment living: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (Due to its size and strength, the Tosa is not suitable for apartment living)
🧼 Maintenance & care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Moderate maintenance required)
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Quite high due to size and dietary and medical needs)
- Care frequency:
- Grooming: Moderate, with regular checks of ears and eyes
- Exercise: Requires regular physical exercise to maintain its shape
💰 Budget
- Purchase price: 1000-1500 €
- Coût annuel moyen (vétérinaire, accessoires, alimentation) :
🏡 Important note
The Tosa is a large dog that requires an experienced and active owner. Its large size and protective temperament make it an excellent guard dog, but it must be socialized early to avoid issues with other animals or strangers. This dog is best suited to an environment with a large fenced yard where it can expend energy. Although it is calm, it is important to provide a structured environment and never leave it alone with children or people it does not know.