History:

The Japanese Tosa, also known simply as the Tosa, Tosa-Inu or Tosa-Ken, is a very rare breed of dog that originated in Japan in the mid to late 1800s. The original Tosa bloodline was a cross between a Kochi, a local Japanese breed, and native Shikoku fighting dogs. The Japanese Tosas of today are crossed between the Great Dane, Mastiff, Bulldog, Bull Terrier and Saint Bernard, which was used to increase its size. These dogs have a history of dogfighting in Japan, and as a result they have been banned in many international locations. They have recently been introduced to the US, and while they are not a suitable dog for a first time owner, with the proper handling and training they make excellent family guardians. [Read more…]