The site was last updated on

24 Aug 2000

Name of breed: Tosa Inu
Class: Working
Recognized: CKC, FCI.
Size: Minimum height at withers: 60cm (23.5in). Weight: 45-90kg (100-200lb)
Coat: Short, smooth and hard.
Colors: Tan with or without markings in a different shade of tan; tan markings on white.  

The Japanese Fighting Dog or Tosa Inu was bred during the Meiji period (1867-1912), when dog fighting was a popular spectator sport in Japan. Local fighting dogs were crossed with the English Bulldog, English Bull Terrier, Saint Bernard and Great Dane, thus increasing height, strength and ferocity, and producing this massive, powerful yet agile dog. Named after Tosa on the Japanese island of Shikoku, the breed took on the roles of companion and guard when dog fighting was outlawed in Japan. It will fight to the death and is still reputed to take part in illegal fights in Japan. 

Character and care

The Tosa can be fierce other dogs and needs experienced handling, but it is brave, patient and protective of its human family. Because of its aggressive past, people tend to regard this dog with caution and it is not permitted to be bred from in the United Kingdom. It should be groomed with a bristle brush and hound glove.