Country of Orgin: Japan |
Height: 24.5-32 in (62-82cm) |
Weight: 80-250 lbs. |
Coat: Short, Dense |
Color: Red, Fawn, Brindle, Rare Black |
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Megasthenes Tosa Inu's www.tosa-megathenes.nl info@tosa-megathenes.nl
Japanese bred Tosas tend to be about half the size of dogs bred outside the country. The Japanese bred Tosa generally weighs from 80-120 lbs., and those outside the country weigh around 200-250 lbs. The coat of the Tosa is short and smooth and usually comes in red, brindle, fawn, and a rare black. Males also have dewlap that closely resembles the Dogue De Bordeaux. Tosas have a strong, muscular physique.
The Tosa is a very loyal and caring breed. They are great with children and very protective of his pack (family) and territory. If there is a threat, he will not hesitate to attack. They are a fearless breed and will protect his family at any cost. Proper socialization and genetics will determine the dog's temperament as an adult. Tosa' were originally bred to fight so there is potiental for aggression towards other dogs. Males and Females can get along well, but not two males and two females. Tosa'a should be alert and fearless, but loving and affectionate within the home. The Tosa temperament is marked by patience, boldness, and courage.
The original Tosa is of spitz lineage, with a shaggy coat, erect ears, and a tail that curls over the back, similar to the Akita. These dogs were then bred with with St. Bernard, German Pointer, Great Dane, Bulldog, Bloodhound, Mastiff, Doberman, Dogue De Bordeaux and Bull Terrier to build a larger and more powerful breed which is the modern day Tosa-ken. Between 1924-1933 there were more than 5,000 Tosa breeders in Japan. The Tosa is a fighting dog, often referred to as the "sumo dog", and the fights are carried out according to sumo wrestling rules. The dog that gets his opponent to the ground with his body, and holds him there is the winner. Dogs that whimper, or growl during the fight are disqualified, and banned from further competition. Rumor has it that they don't bite, but the fights do involve biting. Champion Tosa's recieved a valuable, decorated silk robe with the crowning of an elaborately braided, thick hemp rope, called the Miswashi. Today Tosa's are used as guard dogs and participate in schutzhund competition. Due to their fighting history, Tosas have be banned or restricted in some countries. Ownership in the United Kingdom is regulated under the Dangerous Dog Act of 1991. Australia customs prohibits the import of Tosas, and any other breed considered to be dangerous.
Japanese Tosa |
