Tosa vs. Crested Chin: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Tosas or Crested Chins hypoallergenic, or neither?

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

Ancestry

What are the origins of Tosa and Crested Chin breeds?

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

Japanese Chin, Chinese Crested

Date of Birth

When were Tosa and Crested Chin breeds first developed?

1800s

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Tosa and Crested Chin dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Tosa and Crested Chin?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

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

Fawn
Red
Brindle
Black

Black
Cream
Red
Fawn
Silver
White
Blue
Sable

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Tosa and Crested Chin breeds?

2 / 5

Tosas have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

5 / 5

Crested Chins are known for their coat length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Tosa and Crested Chin?

3 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Tosa and Crested Chin?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Tosa and Crested Chin?

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 Crested Chin can have a litter of 2-5 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 Crested Chin breeds?

Hip Dysplasia
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat

Eyes
Skeletal/Joint Conditions

Minor Concerns

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

Eye Problems

Eyes

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Tosa and Crested Chin breeds?

OFA
CERF
X-Rays
Full Physical Examination

Physical Examination
Ophthalmic Exam
Internal Imaging (x-ray, CT scan, MRI, etc.)
Orthopedic Exam

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Tosas or Crested Chins?

Both Tosa and Crested Chin are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Walks per Week

How many miles should Tosa or Crested Chin 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 Crested Chin, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Tosas or Crested Chins require more exercise?

In general most Tosas usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Crested Chins usually need at least 40 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Tosa and Crested Chin dogs?

Tosa and Crested Chin 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 Crested Chins?

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Tosa or Crested Chin 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 5-10 pound (2 - 5 kg) Crested Chin feed 1 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 Crested Chin?

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

The average cost of a Crested Chin is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Tosa or Crested Chin?

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 Crested Chin is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 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.