Tosa vs. Scotchon: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Tosas or Scotchons hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, the Tosa is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Scotchons are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Origin

What is the origin of Tosa and Scotchon dog breeds?

Japan

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Tosa and Scotchon breeds?

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

Bichon Frise, Scottish Terrier

Date of Birth

When were Tosa and Scotchon breeds first developed?

1800s

2009

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Tosa and Scotchon dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Tosa and Scotchon?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

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

Fawn
Red
Brindle
Black

Black
Brown
Gray
Cream

Coat Length

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

2 / 5

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

5 / 5

Scotchons are known for their coat length.

Coat Density

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

3 / 5

4 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Tosa and Scotchon?

Straight

Wiry

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Tosa and Scotchon?

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 Scotchon 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 Scotchon breeds?

Hip Dysplasia
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat

Patellar Luxation
Scottie Cramp
Cataracts
Hip Dysplasia

Minor Concerns

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

Eye Problems

Allergies
Von Willebrand's Disease
Bladder Stones

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Tosa and Scotchon breeds?

OFA
CERF
X-Rays
Full Physical Examination

Skin Evaluation
Eye examination
Blood Count
Allergy Testing
DNA for VWD

Past times

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

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

Playing tag, Cuddles, Walks

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Tosas or Scotchons?

Both Tosa and Scotchon 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 Scotchon 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 Scotchon, it's at least 7 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Tosas or Scotchons 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 Scotchons 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 Scotchon dogs?

Tosa and Scotchon 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 Scotchons?

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Scissors
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Tosa or Scotchon 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 16-25 pound (7 - 11 kg) Scotchon 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 Scotchon?

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

The average cost of a Scotchon is somewhere $1.30 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

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

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 Scotchon 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.