Tosa vs. Cavador: Breed Differences and Similarities

Tosa

Tosa

Cavador

Cavador

Hypoallergenic

Are Tosas or Cavadors hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Tosa nor Cavador are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Origin

What is the origin of Tosa and Cavador dog breeds?

Japan

​United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Tosa and Cavador breeds?

Kocki, Shikoku, Mastiff, German Pointer, St. Bernard

Labrador Retriever, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Date of Birth

When were Tosa and Cavador breeds first developed?

1800s

1990s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Tosa and Cavador dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Tosa and Cavador?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Tosa and Cavador breeds?

Fawn
Red
Brindle
Black

Black
Brown
Fawn
Red
Cream

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Tosa and Cavador breeds?

2 / 5

The coat of Tosa and Cavador dogs ranges in length from short to medium.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Tosa and Cavador?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Tosa and Cavador?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Tosa and Cavador?

A Tosa can have a litter of 10-12 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Cavador can have a litter of 10-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Tosa and Cavador breeds?

Hip Dysplasia
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat

Bloat
Mitral Valve Disease
Syringomyelia

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Tosa and Cavador?

Eye Problems

Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hip Dysplasia

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Tosa and Cavador breeds?

OFA
CERF
X-Rays
Full Physical Examination

X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination
Blood Work

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Tosa and Cavador entertained?

Cuddling, Chasing stick, Going on drives, Going on walks, Photo shoots, Playing, MAJOR cuddler

Napping, Dock walking, Frisbee, Walking, Fetch

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Tosas or Cavadors?

Tosas are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Cavadors are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Walks per Week

How many miles should Tosa or Cavador walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Tosa, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Cavador, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Tosas or Cavadors require more exercise?

Both Tosa and Cavador typically require a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise each day. The exercise can be spread throughout the day and may involve high-energy activities like walking, running, and playing.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Tosa and Cavador dogs?

Tosa and Cavador should be brushed at least once a week. Of course, you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Tosas and Cavadors?

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Tosa or Cavador in cups?

For an average 120-170 pound (54 - 77 kg) Tosa feed 4 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 25-55 pound (11 - 25 kg) Cavador feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Tosa or Cavador?

The average cost of a Tosa is somewhere $3.90 - $4.20 per day.

The average cost of a Cavador is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Tosa or Cavador?

The average per month expenses of a Tosa is between $112 - $126. This makes an average of $1344 - $1512 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of a Cavador is between $49 - $63. This makes an average of $588 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Compare Tosa with other breeds