Tosa Inu

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN Japan.      

MOST SUITED AS Watchdog and family pet.

SIZE
The shoulder-height is a minimum of 61cm (24in) for dogs and 55cm (21 1/2in) for bitches. As no maximum shoulder height is prescribed these heights are substantially exceeded.

COAT
The short-haired coat of the Tosa Inu is found in a number of colours including red-brown, black, yellow, streaked, and black and tan. Multi-coloured is also permissible.

CARE REQUIRED
The Tosa Inu is fairly easy to look after. The coat can be kept in good condition by an occasional brushing to remove dead and loose hairs. These dogs do not slobber.

CHARACTER
The Tosa Inu is quiet and self-aware, patient, brave, and a very good watchdog which only barks when necessary, has a strong protective urge, and is exceptionally intelligent. They are very affectionate towards their family members but more reserved with strangers.

TRAINING
The Tosa Inu requires an equable and consis­tent but amiable approach to its training. It is very sensitive to your voice. It is not sensible to take a hard line with the Tosa Inu although a commanding and confident approach is essential. This is not a breed for beginners.

SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR
The Tosa Inu places its family first and foremost. Generally they are fine with children but strangers are cautiously treated. Known visitors are usually happily greeted. Keep him away from other dogs which are raring for a fight because an attacker will always come off worse.

EXERCISE
In a well fenced and large enough area of land, this dog can happily look after its own exercise demands. Take it with you to the beach, woods, or open countryside occasionally for a change of scene. In principle it only requires an average level of exercise.

SPECIAL REMARKS
The Tosa Inu or Japanese Tosa is banned as a dangerous breed in Great Britain and Australia. For other countries, it is completely unsuitable for beginners. They should never be placed in a kennel because they like to spend the day close to their handler.