Tosa Inu Japanese fighting dog. Description of the Tosa Inu breed. Where to buy a puppy

Tosa Inu is a Japanese fighting breed with mysterious origins. Like true fighters, these dogs are poised and majestic. Their stern image is complemented by a powerful body, an intelligent look, developed intelligence and short, shiny, solid coat.

Height at withers: males – from 60 cm, females – from 55 cm;
Weight: 36-61 kg.

• Color: solid red, apricot, brindle, fawn, black, small white spots on the chest and paws are acceptable.
• Eye color: dark brown.
• Nose color: black.
• General form: large dog with short hair and strong bones, hanging ears and a square muzzle.

History of the Tosa Inu

The prototype of the Tosa Inu or Japanese Mastiff - Shikoku-ken fighting dogs. They were very similar to modern ones. Traditionally, they entered the ring, and the opponents were the same relatives. Until the 19th century, Japan was a state closed to foreigners. After the hostilities the situation changed. Guests from the Old World brought not only goods, but also dogs.

The Japanese entered the Shikoku-ken into battle with a European opponent and suffered complete defeat. Their pets were smaller in size than the imported pit dogs. The fighting stopped within the first seconds after it began, but the stubborn Japanese found a way out. They crossed the Shikoku-ken with imported dogs to increase their size and ability to resist newcomers from the Old World. Breeders were able to preserve their pets' fighting spirit, endurance, and desire for victory by changing appearance beyond recognition. Instead of light dogs with a narrow muzzle and erect ears, the mastiff appeared. The head became square, the ends of the ears lay close to the cheekbones, and the hair shortened.

The new breed was named Tosu because of the area in which it was bred. The work took several decades. At the end of the 19th century, these dogs returned to their former glory as invincible fighters.

Local residents also used tosa to protect houses and people. Calm in ordinary life, when danger approached, Japanese mastiffs instantly transformed, acting clearly and without delay. In 1930, there was an association of breed owners and a local standard was in force.

Nothing is known for certain about the breeds that participated in the breeding of the Tosa Inu. Foreign experts base their guesses on the similarity with St. Bernard. Perhaps they left their blood and hunting dogs– , . The Japanese have classified all information about selection.

Dog fights in the Country rising sun more reminiscent ritual than gambling entertainment. The rules are similar to sumo regulations; animals enter the ring wearing jewelry. There is practically no blood in such fights; dogs are considered losers if they raise a voice or step outside the boundaries of the outlined circle. This ritual is still allowed, and it was created for imperial soldiers after the direct instructions of the ruler. The winner is put on a special apron made of embroidered fabric with a thick rope white. His owner receives a cash prize. The incentive amounts reach up to $30,000. Entering the ring is accompanied by music.

Souvenir products in Japan in the form of Tosa Inu

The 20th century was a turning point for the Tosa Inu, like many other breeds. Because of the war, most of the livestock died, but the owners saved some pets by hiding them in the mountains of a remote province. Japanese mastiffs also remain in Korea and Taiwan. They were taken out illegally before the outbreak of hostilities.

The Japanese consider the Tosa Inu a national heritage and banned the export of dogs of this breed outside the country back in the 19th century.

Created in Japan tosa inu museum in the province of the same name. Fights are held there and visitors are accepted for excursions. The small number of Tosa Inu in Europe and the USA is a consequence of the policy of Japanese breeders. They rarely sell puppies for export, but there are Korean and Taiwanese Tosa Inu lines.

The breed is recognized by the FCI; the current standard for this system was published in 1997. Until 2000, Korean breeders could not obtain an FCI pedigree, but thanks to well-coordinated and effective work, their efforts were justified. European descendants have these dogs at the beginning of their pedigrees.

Today Tosa Inu can be seen in fights in eastern countries and as companions with guard duties for ordinary residents. In Europe, some states have banned the import and breeding of the Japanese mastiff due to the alleged danger to humans.

Character and behavior

Positive qualities of the Tosa Inu:

• Equilibrium;
• Attachment;
• Endurance;
• Developed intelligence;
• They clearly distinguish between friends and foes;
• Lightning-fast reaction;
• Fearlessness.

Negative:

• Make decisions independently;
• It takes a long time to get used to a new person;
• May be dangerous;
• The desire for dominance (dominance).

Who is the dog suitable for?

Tosa Inu - breed not for beginners. Suitable for people with a strong character who are not afraid of difficulties.

The Japanese Mastiff at rest creates a deceptive impression. In seconds he turns into a ferocious dog if there is a reason. Therefore, thoughtful training and contact with the owner is necessary. A child or elderly people will not cope with such a task. They become attached to an understanding owner for life.

Breeders say that Japanese mastiff f looks closely at a person for a long time and only after “checking” recognizes the owner.

For decades, Tosa Inu have participated in battles, in which certain qualities have been cultivated: toughness, speed of movement, courage and the ability to make decisions without the owner. However, aggression is considered a defect in the breed. The Tosa Inu has a viciousness that can be controlled. Suitable to protect an apartment, site or person. They rarely raise their voices and work to capture.

Japanese mastiffs do not pose a threat to a family, be careful with children. If they live with other dogs, they can sort things out in fights, building a hierarchy. The main thing should be the person. This normal phenomenon, but caution won't hurt. There are no problems with cats or rodents, provided they get used to it or live together since childhood.

Choosing a nickname

For girls: Ima (gift), Yuri (lily), Kita (north), Mai (bright), Tama ( gem), Hana (flower), Aiko (beloved child).

For boys: Taro (firstborn), Raiden (god of thunder), Riki (strong), Kin (golden), Akiro (smart), Tohru (sea).

Tosa Inu is distinguished by endurance, so they tolerate heat well. In severe frost they freeze, in spring and autumn they calmly walk without clothes. Due to their large size, freely available fresh water is required in summer. Required regular walks to maintain health.

In their free time from walks and activities, Tosa Inu prefer to relax in their own corner. However, they sleep lightly and will not miss a single event.

A simple bed, simple toys, a bowl of food and water are all that a samurai from the world of dogs needs.

You need to take your Tosa Inu for walks regularly, especially in childhood. With puppies and teenagers they leave the house 3-5 times a day. For correct formation play, walking and socialization are necessary. A dog of such a serious breed quickly perceives new information, which affects its behavior in the future. In winter, it is advisable to wear overalls or blankets. For an adult Japanese Mastiff, 2 walks lasting 1-1.5 hours each are enough.

Feeding

Approximate diet for an adult Tosa Inu:

• Raw meat (beef) – 200-250 g;
• Fermented milk products (non-fat) – 150 g;
• Porridge – 100 g;
• Vegetables – 100 g;
• Yolk raw egg- 2 times per week;
• Sea fish – 1-2 times a week;
• Cartilage, offal – 2-3 times a week.

Puppies 2-3 months old are given food every 3.5 hours. Be sure to give calcined cottage cheese and kefir. As they grow older, the interval between feedings increases. By 8 months they switch to 2 one meal and adult diet. All offal, except tripe, is boiled.

For active dog after formation (1.5 years) must contain increased amount fats and proteins. Old Tosa Inu or those with health problems are transferred to a special diet. Teenagers need mineral supplements and vitamins, which are selected by the veterinarian after the examination.

Grooming

Grooming of the Japanese Mastiff consists of periodic washing with shampoo, combing and wiping the ears.

The Tosa Inu's coat is very short, so when shedding it can cause discomfort to people. Washing helps get rid of mature hairs, as does blowing warm air from a hairdryer on wet hair. The cover is combed special rubber brush, similar to a horse grooming accessory.

The puppy is accustomed to all procedures from childhood, so that an adult, respectable-sized mastiff himself jumps into the bath and loves being brushed. Tosa Inu wash 1-2 times a month with shampoo for short-haired breeds or deep cleaning product. The balm is used in rare cases.

By the way, the common opinion about allergies to small “needles” in the hair of such dogs is wrong. During molting, tears or sneezing may appear, but due to mechanical irritation of the mucous membranes. Allergies in humans are caused by a protein contained in the epithelium, saliva or secretions from the glands of an animal.

Overgrown claws are removed with forceps, but not at the root. Teeth are cleaned ultrasonically or manually using veterinary clinic. The ears are wiped with lotions or drops.

Education and training

Tosa Inu, due to its fighting nature, has a reputation for being difficult dogs to train. However, their intelligence and affection for the owner allows us to doubt this statement.

The main thing is to show strength of character. Never repeat a command twice; you must force the dog to execute it immediately. Little tricks will help with this.

Effective training methods:

• Reward with a treat;
• Easy pressing on the croup or applying the collar for the commands “sit”, “lie down”;
• Take to class trained dog so that the pet imitates her;
• Praise and pet the Tosa Inu after successful completion.

You can use the mastiff's favorite toy and give it back after the command is executed. Over time, encourage with stroking. The dog develops a reflex to positive emotions. All training is based on the animal's memories.

Guard duty is suitable for Tosa Inu. Training occurs after successful completion general course training so that your pet obeys perfectly.

It is better to contact a professional trainer. Tosa Inu indeed not an easy breed, but when establishing contact with the dog, classes bring pleasure to both the pet and the owner. Despite the serious nature and historical purpose of the breed, working tests are not carried out for the Japanese Mastiff.

Health and life expectancy

Tosa Inu live to 10-12 years. Common diseases in the breed.

Tosa Inu - fearless fighting dog from Japan, he is distinguished by legendary courage, intelligence and funny appearance. Tosa Inu is considered a national treasure of Japan. Dog fighting has been a popular sport in Japan since ancient times. Dogs of this breed are dressed in full ceremonial fighting regalia and are traditionally carried into the fighting arena by two bearers. Just like sumo wrestling dog fighting were accompanied by special ceremonies and were carried out mainly by samurai. Fighters, especially winners, were glorified and given special honors.

The dogs were raised in a special way to enhance their fighting abilities. The puppies were jealously protected from prying eyes.

Originally a local breed of dog known as the Nihon Inu, which was also used for hunting wild boars, fought with each other. However, after Japan opened its gates to the Western powers in the nineteenth century, other Western dog breeds were brought to Japan and soon began to participate in battles with the Nihon Inu. The Nihon Inu breed was much smaller than Western breeds, resulting in Nihon Inu dogs often losing fights to Western dog breeds. The samurai's pride was hurt, and they decided to develop a new, larger, stronger breed of dog by crossing the Nihon Inu with Western breeds. This crossbreeding program was carried out on the island of Shikoku.

Breeders from the island of Shikoku started with bulldogs and bull terriers, as these dogs turned out to be the most resilient in battles. The Mastiff was used for size and the Great Dane for size and agility. Pointers, both English and German, were selected for their barking, obedience and well-developed sense of smell. Bloodhound genes were also added. The result was the Tosa Inu breed. Dogs of this breed exceeded all expectations and turned out to be fearless fighters. Soon the fame of Tosa Inu spread throughout Japan.

However, even more than before dogs jealously guarded and continued selective selection in order to maintain the best fighting qualities. As a result, Tosa Inu never became popular. pet dog. Dogs of the Tosa Inu breed remained almost entirely in the hands of people involved in dog fighting. Due to lack of food and other difficulties during the Second World War, the Tosa Inu breed almost completely disappeared. It was restored in the post-war years thanks to Tosa-in brought from Korea and Taiwan, which were once brought there from Japan.

Tosa Inu breed standard

Tosa Inu is a powerful dog of a noble breed, reaching 75 centimeters at the withers and weighing up to 70 kilograms. Larger Tosa Inu, weighing 100 kilograms or more, have now disappeared. Females are slightly smaller than cables. Females never participate in battles.

Tosa Inu have a large, wrinkled head with drooping ears and middle length muzzle with a scissor bite. Tosa Inu's eyes are small, calm and intelligent. The body is powerful with a broad chest and muscular legs. The thick fur that covers the body of the Tosa Inu is distinguished by a variety of colors. Although red color is considered ideal, and preference is given to dogs of the same color. Spots are allowed on the chest and in no case on the head and muzzle.

The average life expectancy is 10 – 12 years.

Tosa Inus are susceptible to diseases common to large dog breeds, such as joint inflammation, hip dysplasia and bloating. Careful selection can certainly alleviate some of these problems.

A litter usually consists of 6 – 12 puppies.

Tosa Inu character

Despite their fame, Tosa Inu make incredibly gentle and loving family dogs. They are devoted to their owners, patient and gentle with children. Very intelligent with well-developed guarding instincts, these are dogs you can rely on. In addition to protection, Tosa Inu is successfully used for search and rescue work and in medical therapy.

Brief characteristics of the dog

• Other possible dog names: Tosa-ken, Japanese mastiff, Tosa, Tosa Inu, Japanese mastiff, Japanese Tosa, tosatoken, Tosa Token, Tokyo fighting dog, Japanese Fighting Dog, Sumo dog, Tosa Fughting Dog.
• Adult height: female from 55 cm, male from 60 cm.
• Weight: 30-60 kg.
• Characteristic color: red, apricot, black, fawn, brindle, with a black mask, white chest and paws.
• Wool length: short, smooth.
• Lifespan: 10-12 years old.
• Advantages of the breed: balanced, intelligent, non-aggressive, patient, hardy, good with children.
• Difficulties of the breed: require professional education.
• Average price: Tosa Inu costs from $1000 to $5000 or more.

History of the origin of the breed

Tosa Inu or Toza Inu – the only Japanese dog from the Molosser group.

Until the mid-19th century, Japan had a national fighting breed, Shikoku (Shikoku) Ken, bred on the island. Shikoku. Many centuries ago, samurai returning from war needed to periodically “let off steam” while waiting between campaigns. Then the emperor decided legalize dog fighting, which existed in Japan since the 14th century, and issue an order for the mandatory presence of samurai on them, where they could throw out their accumulated emotions. This action quickly gained popularity there is a demand for fighting dogs.

In 1853-54, the era of Japan's self-isolation from the rest of the world ended. A wave of merchants poured into the country, and with them dogs began to arrive to take part in the famous Japanese battles.

These fights were more humane, as they were more reminiscent of traditional Japanese sumo and stopped as soon as the dog knocked the opponent to the floor. As a result, the dogs did not receive serious injuries.

Local dogs were significantly inferior in strength and endurance to visiting fighters. Then the need arose for a new, stronger breed, which is what local dog handlers began to do. Consistently crossing the Shikoku Ken with other breeds, in 1868 they received a hardy, agile, agile and indifferent to pain dog, which they named Tosa Inu in honor of the prefecture where it was bred.

In the blood of the Tosa Inu there is a Great Dane and a shorthaired pointer. The exact sequence of breeding the breed is kept a closely guarded secret to this day. like a national secret. Dog handlers from other countries are trying to describe this scheme in their own way.

Tosa Inu instantly gained popularity both among local dog fighting fans and among foreigners. But dogs were not allowed to be taken out of the country. The breed received its standard already in 1925. And in 1930, the Association for the Preservation and Popularization of the Breed was created.

Second World War and then the plague epidemic almost destroyed the breed. Thanks to the fact that enthusiasts managed to select 12 of the most prominent representatives and evacuate them to the northern part of Japan, the breed survived. In addition, in the chaos of the war, several individuals ended up in Korea, Taiwan and America. All this helped preserve the breed and restore its numbers.

Tosa Inu is recognized by many international cynological organizations, and even in 2000 received approval from the FCI. It is believed that the Japanese representatives of the breed are the most consistent with the standard, significantly outperforming their Korean and American counterparts.

Purpose of the breed

Tosa Inu Samurai Dogs First of all intended for participation in dog fighting. It was for this purpose that they were bred. When not fighting, Tosa Inu faithfully serve their owners. ideal security guards, watchmen and bodyguards.

Tosa Inu can be found in rescue and search teams. Also they are used in canistherapy, that is, treatment and rehabilitation with the help of dogs. They make wonderful companions not only for adults, but also for children. They are also family favorites.

Description of the nature of the breed

Tosa Inu have dual nature, but they clearly know where and when they need to apply certain qualities of their character. In the ring they have no equal in fearlessness, endurance and toughness. These dogs indifferent to pain and are ready to bravely rush at the enemy, instantly assessing the situation and making a decision on their own.

Tosa is not warned of an attack by barking, and immediately capture the threat object. The Tosa Inu has the same behavior towards uninvited guests. They greet all strangers with great distrust, but without displaying unreasonable aggression.

Even during a fight, dogs are not allowed to bite the opponent or make a sound - otherwise the dog is removed from further participation. This only applies to traditional Japanese fighting. With dogs that live with Tosa Inu in the same house, they build a clear hierarchy, placing themselves in the position of leader.

Looking at its terrifying appearance, it is impossible to guess that Tosa kind and balanced dogs who can patiently and carefully babysit a small child. These dogs do not pose any threat to the family and rarely speak out. But for this they need early professional education and strict training.

Tosa Inu needs a confident owner with experience in keeping similar breeds. These dogs have a rare analytical mind, excellent memory and intelligence. Therefore, it will not be difficult for an experienced owner to properly train his pet.

Video review of the breed

After watching the video, you can get to know the Tosa Inu breed better and learn more about its characteristics.

How to choose a puppy

The choice of a Tosa Inu puppy must be taken very seriously, as this breed is not cheap. As a rule, nurseries strictly monitor compliance with the standard, as well as psychological and physical condition of the entire litter.

It is recommended to purchase puppies no earlier than they are two months old.. By this age, puppies will be fully strengthened, independent and will have absorbed everything their mother has to teach them. In addition, possible health problems, defects and inconsistencies will be visible.

Choose a puppy medium size, without visible defects of the jaw, eyes and ears. The slightest lameness may indicate problems with the joints. Also pay attention to the fur. Its dullness indicates health problems. Feel your belly. It should be soft and without any hardening around the belly button. This is how the absence of an umbilical hernia is determined.

In a male dog, two testes should be palpable in the scrotum. Otherwise, the puppy will experience cryptorchidism (the absence of one or two testes).

The puppy must be moderately well-fed, cheerful and active. Clap your hands loudly over the puppy. If he huddles to the ground or runs away, it means he has cowardice, which is completely unacceptable for this breed. It is better to choose the one who ran up to meet you with curiosity.

Dog names

The first difficulty that all new owners face is choosing a nickname for their pet. More often purebred puppies Even before the sale they already have registered names.

If you have the opportunity to name the tosa yourself, then choose a sonorous nickname that doesn’t sound like a command, which the dog can quickly remember. For example: Jersey, Arax, Linsa, Barson, Akela, Arvin, Hannah, Akiro, Aiko, Raiden, Emir and so on.

Tosa Inu not adapted to life in a city apartment. More suitable for them a private house with a spacious yard.

These dogs need heavy loads and the ability to move freely. A chain or a permanently closed enclosure will ruin the dog’s character and it will become either withdrawn and depressed, or angry and aggressive. Fortunately, the first option happens more often, and the owners get a phlegmatic pet instead of an active guard.

Short hair is not able to protect the Tosa Inu from frost, so he needs a comfortable kennel. Some people take the dog indoors at night.

To remove dust and dirt from the fur and to give it shine, you can periodically wipe the dog with a damp cloth or a special glove. It is recommended to bathe the Tosa Inu no more than two to three times a year. using a special shampoo. Once a week is necessary. Carry out prevention regularly, and if necessary, fight against and.

Possible health problems

TO typical diseases that are found among the Tosa Inu include:

Fortunately, the breed no severe cases detected hereditary diseases . Despite the strong immunity, the dog still needs preventative treatment against viral infections, which can lead to serious consequences.

Nutrition for puppy and adult dog

An active dog like the Tosa Inu requires nutrition that at least 30% protein. It could be lean meat, offal and sinews. It is recommended to replace meat once or twice a week sea ​​fish or seafood. The carbohydrate part consists of cereals, sometimes in combination with vegetables. You should also take different vitamin supplements according to your age and needs.

When feeding on industrial feeds, the need for vitamin supplements is eliminated, but provided that the feed class is not lower than Premium. The food can be either dry or canned, the main thing is to choose it correctly.

An adult dog is fed twice a day, trying to do it at the same time. For a growing puppy, the starting daily intake is four to five servings per day.

Smoked meats and yeast products are completely excluded from the dog's diet. bakery products and sweets.

Training and education

Despite the dog’s intelligence and intelligence, the Tosa Inu, like any other fighting breed, must be trained by an experienced person. If you do not have experience in raising such dogs, then it is better not to get a Tosa at all or leave the training to a professional trainer.

At the beginning of training it is important to gain the dog’s trust and become its unquestioning leader. In relation to Tosa Inu It is not recommended to use force. Also, do not neglect rewards with praise or treats.

These dogs able to quickly remember commands, which are given both by voice and gestures. The main thing is to approach the process responsibly and establish yourself correctly in front of your pet.

Advantages and disadvantages

Tosa Inu capable of creating a misconception about themselves. When you watch their behavior in the ring, it’s hard to imagine that such a dog can patiently allow himself to be squeezed small child, and in general be kind and sensitive. And when you see her playfully running around surrounded by her beloved owners, you can’t believe that she is capable of showing all her power and strength in an instant if such a need arises.

This a balanced and unnecessarily non-aggressive dog. In progress her actions are aimed more at capturing the enemy than at destroying him. But in any case, it acts without warning.

Tosa is one of the breeds that requires special training and constant work with them. Therefore, novice dog breeders should think carefully before getting such a pet.

This resilient, fearless and energetic dog . And she transfers her working qualities to the protection and security of her family. Tosa not suitable for keeping in urban high-rise buildings, as well as weak-willed and elderly people who may not be able to cope with its pressure.

Tosa Inu is a brave, warlike Japanese dog, distinguished by immeasurable courage, intelligence and unusual appearance.

Currently, many nurseries have been created that are engaged in breeding Japanese fighting dog, which will be an excellent defender of a large country house.

Before visiting the nursery, it is necessary to study in advance information not only about the origin of this breed, but also about the typical behavior of massive sumo wrestlers.

Let's consider the main provisions of the Tosu Inu breed standard, character traits and points that must be taken into account if you want to purchase a dog from a kennel.

The original purpose of the Tosu Inu dog breed was to participate in dog fights, to raise the military spirit of samurai before a crucial battle with the enemy.

According to the laws of sumo, the opponent must be pressed to the ring (knocked down), without giving the slightest opportunity to rise to his paws.

The dogs fought without outside interference. The public could only tell them apart by the colors of their collars.

The period of the duel was set in advance, maximum duration was 20 minutes.

A dog that intentionally injured an opponent by biting was immediately subject to disqualification.

Loud squeals, barking and distance between opponents of more than three steps were also considered violations of the rules. The winner of the fight received the title of “ring champion”.

The head is large and strong; the skull is large, the stop is clearly visible. The muzzle is square in shape.

The ears are relatively short (reach the cheekbone), the skin on them is thin; set high.

Eyes are medium sized, mostly brown color. The look is piercing and stern. The jaws are powerful with a scissor bite.

The neck is powerful, strong, and there is a large fold of skin on the throat. The back line is straight, the loin and rounded croup are slightly prominent.

The average height at the withers of an adult Tosu Inu is 60 cm, weight - up to 90 kg.

The chest is deepened, the stomach is retracted. The tail is set high, thicker at the base, and reaches the hocks when at rest.

The coat is thick, short and harsh. The following colors are allowed by the standard: various shades of red (from fawn to deep red), brindle and black. Small white markings are allowed.

As mentioned earlier, it is better for owners of a country house to get a Tosu Inu.

There, the massive pet will have its own separate enclosure to live in and a vast area for daily walks.

The formation of the Tosa Inu's character begins at a young age.

It is necessary for those dog breeders who have the skills to train fighting breeds to purchase such a guard from a kennel.

There are many nuances in training, without taking into account which you can easily turn him into an uncontrollable, aggressive creature.

As children, they are prone to unpredictable behavior towards guests and even family members.

The owner needs to raise a peace-loving, adequate dog, muting the innate fighting habits.

• the family has small children;
• the owner has no experience with large fighting dogs;
• There is no possibility of long walks in the fresh air.

Photo gallery

If you want to buy a fighting breed dog, but don’t know what it looks like, we suggest looking through our photo selection.

The majestic, massive, brave Tosa Inu dog breed came from Japan. They did not appear to protect the house and not as a friend to children. The history of the dog’s appearance is amazing and not fully understood, like the history of the country in which the dog appeared and lives. What secrets does Tosa Inu, which has become a favorite of breeders, keep? purebred dogs?

Origin story

When Japan's policy of internal isolation ended, many Europeans flocked to the country. People moved with their belongings and brought large purebred dogs. The Japanese were impressed by the size, strength and beauty of the animals brought from the West. In the country, already from the 14th century, there was a passion for dog fighting, in which Nihon Inu took part, but in comparison with foreign competitors, the local “fighters” looked ridiculous. Japanese breeders began to try to crossbreed the Nihon Inu breed with the newcomers. To create the Japanese Tosa Inu, the Nihon Inu was crossed with a bulldog and a bull terrier. To improve the breed by successive crossing, mastiffs were used, Great Danes, Pointers, St. Bernards. The result was the Tosa Inu breed, a Japanese fighting dog that became the pride of the country.

The Tosa Inu dog is a service dog. Otherwise, the animal is called a Japanese wrestling dog. Bred in Japan for dog fighting and is considered a mixture of different breeds. The crossbreeding resulted in the appearance of an aggressive breed of dog capable of withstanding any battle. The Tosa Inu dog breed is distinguished by durability, strength, power and the ability to attack mercilessly. Outwardly it looks impressive, even intimidating. Copes well with the role of a watchman. Main feature character of the Tosa Inu dog - aggressiveness, important proper upbringing, the strength of the owner’s character and sequence of actions.

The world saw the Tosa Inu in Japan on the island of Shikoku in the Tosa province in the mid-nineteenth century, hence the name of the bred breed. Now fans of dog fighting could count on victory, and dog fighting with the rules of sumo, thanks to the breeding new breed, have become increasingly widespread.

The true heyday of the Tosa Inu breed occurred from 1924 to 1933, when local farmers began raising and breeding the breed. The heyday did not last long. A difficult time for the fighting breed came with the Second World War. Tosa Inu adults and puppies were destroyed, there was a food shortage in the country, and the dogs needed a lot of food. For most individuals prepared death penalty. Only a few dogs at risk own life, were rescued by breeders. The pets were brought to sparsely populated areas of Hokkaido. Additionally, several representatives of the breed were transported to Korea and Taiwan, where the dogs survived the war.

Appearance

Few people manage to see the Tosa Inu dog in person, not in a photo. The breed is considered small in number. Most representatives of the breed still live in Japan, guarding rich estates. The pets that settled in Europe are slightly different in appearance and character from the true Japanese Tosa Inu.

The Tosa Inu breed of Japanese fighting dogs, despite its apparent aggressiveness, is beautiful and noble. Males are much larger than females. Their weight reaches 70 kg, although samurai claim that there are pets weighing up to 100 kg. At the withers, the Tosa Inu reaches 70 cm. If the dog weighs less than 40 kg, the animal is not allowed to fight. Females do not participate in competitions.

Adopted in 1997 official standard breed, regulating the main parameters:

• The height of the male dog is at least 60 cm at the withers;
• The height of the bitch is not less than 55 cm;
• The dog weighs more than 40 kg.

Main characteristics of the breed:

1. The dog has a superbly built muscular body. The bones are strong, wide rib cage and lower back.
2. Keeps his back straight. Tosa Inu is characterized by smartness.
3. Straight limbs.
4. A wide head with a large muzzle immediately reveals a fighting spirit.
5. Hanging ears, the lower edges adjacent to the cheekbones, are set high.
6. Tosa Inu's eyes are especially attractive. The look is stern, intelligent, expressing dignity.
7. The body is covered with short dense hair.
8. The color of the dog is represented by red and nearby shades (peach, fawn).

Dog character and behavior

When choosing a Tosa Inu dog for a home, breeders should take into account that these handsome dogs do not pretend to be the decoration of a city apartment. Their aggressiveness is considered dangerous for random people who are ready to provoke the dog to display fighting qualities. It is better to get a dog for people who have their own cottage, a large yard, an aviary and an area for walking, where the possibility of causing harm to others is excluded. A dog cannot be in the cold. Dampness and drafts are not allowed in the enclosure.

The character of a Tosa Inu puppy is formed from childhood. It is recommended to adopt a four-legged pet only for people who have experience with fighting breeds. Tosa Inu is difficult to train, but easy to spoil. Little puppy, raised incorrectly, grows up aggressive and uncontrollable. Behavior can be unpredictable towards strangers and towards members of one’s own family. At proper training The puppy quickly finds contact with people and becomes the best companion.

Outwardly, dogs look menacing, but in life they are calm and reliable dog. The description of the Tosa Inu breed speaks of uniqueness; the dog amazingly combines contradictory character traits: self-confidence, power, fearlessness, devotion and care. The Tosa Inu breed is wary of strangers and aggressive towards other dogs.

There is no need to develop fighting qualities in the Japanese fighting dog Tosa Inu. Nature rewards the dog with these traits. It is much more important to teach a dog to remain peaceful if it lives in a home as a guardian of the hearth. The main advantages will turn into disaster if the training is not enough or the classes are carried out incorrectly. Do not take Tosa Inu into your home if:

• There is no skill in training fighting dogs;
• It is not possible to constantly walk the dog outside the city;
• Children live in the house;
• Housing conditions are unsuitable for large pets.

In order for a dog’s strength potential to be fully realized, the animal requires long training and walks. The dog must be given the opportunity to walk in the morning and evening. When permanently residing in confined space and lack of territory for walking, the dog becomes depressed, gets sick or shows aggression.

You should not risk taking your Tosa Inu dog for a walk without a leash or muzzle. Such caution is necessary. This is a manifestation of concern for others who may become victims of an animal. Caution should be exercised when receiving guests if such a pet lives in the house. It is better to protect the dog from meeting strangers. On a leash, the dog should move freely, without coercion. Puppies must be kept on a leash especially carefully. You cannot pull on the reins; the cervical vertebrae may be displaced.

Breed care

If training Tosa Inu requires professional skills, then caring for dogs of the breed is extremely simple. Short hair will always be clean if you brush it 1-2 times a week with a special rubber brush. If necessary, the animal can be washed, but frequent procedures it is undesirable to do.

Tosa Inu's claws and eyes require special care. It is advisable to entrust claw trimming to professionals if you do not have the skills to perform such work. Professionals periodically examine the animal's eyes and ears.

The body of the Japanese Mastiff is strong. Diseases are unknown to the dog, but vaccinations must be completed on time. At good health, proper care the dog will live up to 12 years. If the dog gets sick, the disease is easily tolerated. Of the characteristic diseases, Tos has only hip dysplasia.

You need to think carefully before purchasing a puppy and familiarize yourself with how to care for a Tosa Inu. You may not want to burden yourself with a dog that requires such high maintenance.

Tosa Inu puppies are expensive, grow slowly, and need constant care, attention and education. Dogs are playful, grow big, and will feel comfortable only in an open area, for example, in a country house.

Tosa Inu needs regular exercise, exercise and free space.

Dogs of the breed cannot tolerate dampness and cold. Those living in an apartment will have to get used to walking the dog for a long time in the morning and evening. Otherwise, the dog becomes aggressive towards others. Walks take place in places remote from people. This is a fighting dog, it is recommended to have a leash and muzzle with you.

Dogs are characterized profuse salivation, especially in hot weather and during periods of aggression.

What to feed a Japanese Mastiff

The diet of the Tosa Inu dog depends on the age of the animal. Create a diet taking into account the requirements for proper development Only a professional can handle a pet. The puppy's diet includes vitamins, but without excess, so as not to cause illness. elbow joints. Adult dogs are fed 2 times a day.

You cannot feed the animal immediately before training or fighting!

As for the Tosa's diet, they are demanding dogs. A pet is a fighting dog; nutrition must remain balanced. Your veterinarian will give you recommendations regarding feeding your Tosa Inu. Please note that the portion must correspond to the age of the dog, otherwise difficulties will arise with the joints, elbow and hip. Food for Tosa Inu is selected depending on weight, age, lifestyle and other factors.

If the pet gets large physical exercise, the food is enriched with fats. In case of low physical activity (less than 4 hours a day), the food is filled with carbohydrates. Old dogs eat food containing vitamins, microelements and salts with minimal protein content.

If you plan to feed your dog dry food, there is a suitable one on sale. If the choice fell on home feeding, it’s better to work through the Tosa Inu menu with a professional.

The nutrition of a Tosa Inu puppy differs from the nutrition of a puppy of other breeds in the quality of food. The food is saturated with vitamins A and D, calcium and protein. These components are important for bone growth, and Tosa puppies grow slowly. The products are designed to be easily digestible and high in calories. Perfect fit industrial feed, designed specifically for puppies. These foods are enriched necessary components for growth and formation of skeleton and muscles.