Tosa vs. Japug: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Tosas or Japugs hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Tosa nor Japug 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 Japug dog breeds?

Japan

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Tosa and Japug breeds?

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

Japanese Chin and Pug

Date of Birth

When were Tosa and Japug breeds first developed?

1800s

2000's

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Tosa and Japug dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Tosa and Japug?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

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

Fawn
Red
Brindle
Black

Black
White
Fawn
Silver

Coat Length

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

2 / 5

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

1 / 5

Japugs have short coats.

Coat Density

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

3 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Tosa and Japug?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Tosa and Japug?

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 Japug can have a litter of 2-4 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 Japug breeds?

Hip Dysplasia
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat

Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca

Minor Concerns

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

Eye Problems

Entropion
Demodicosis
Cataracts
Hemivertebrae
Skin Fold Dermatitis
Meningitis
Brachycephalic Syndrome
Exposure Keratopathy Syndrome
Sick Sinus Syndrome
Atopy Dermatitis

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Tosa and Japug breeds?

OFA
CERF
X-Rays
Full Physical Examination

Blood Test
Spine
Skin Evaluation
Eye Examinations
Full Physical Examination

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Tosas or Japugs?

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.

Japugs are low-energy dogs. This breed make a great companion for a relatively inactive person. Japug dogs require a few short daily walks, and then they're happy snuggling next to you for the rest of the day.

Walks per Week

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

Activity per Day

Do Tosas or Japugs 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 Japugs usually need at least 30 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 Japug dogs?

Tosa 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

In general Japug should be brushed at least once a month. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes, especially if they enjoyed it

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Tosas and Japugs?

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Tosa or Japug 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 7-20 pound (3 - 9 kg) Japug 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 Japug?

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

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

Monthly Cost

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

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 Japug is between $28 - $42. This makes an average of $336 - $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.