Australian Shepherd vs Tosa
Breed Compatibility
74% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Tosa: Calm0.4
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Tosa: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Tosa: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Shepherd5/5
Tosa3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Shepherd3/5
Tosa1/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Shepherd3/5
Tosa1/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Australian Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
CEA: Hereditary eye condition
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
Cataracts: Vision impairment risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development
Tosa
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Eye Problems: Vision disorders
Joint Issues: Elbow dysplasia
Skin Allergies: Dermatitis risks
Pros & Cons Comparison
Australian Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent work ethic
Versatile abilities
Strong protective instincts
Athletic and agile
Cons
High exercise needs
Intense herding instinct
Heavy shedding
Can be too energetic
Requires constant mental stimulation
Tosa
Pros
Loyal guardian
Patient temperament
Calm demeanor
Low barking tendency
Cons
Requires experienced owner
Size management challenges
High food costs
Not suited for small spaces
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Tosa Fun Fact
Known as the 'Sumo wrestler' of dog breeds in Japan due to their historical fighting heritage.
Heritage & Purpose
Australian Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in western United States during the 1800s, these dogs excelled in herding livestock across challenging terrain. Their versatile skills and keen intelligence made them invaluable to ranchers.
Tosa
Origin:
Developed in Tosa province, Japan during the 19th century as a fighting dog, combining native Japanese breeds with various Western breeds to create a powerful guardian.
Special Considerations
Australian Shepherd
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Tosa
Requires early socialization, consistent training, and secure fencing. Regular joint monitoring and weight management crucial. Moderate grooming needs.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
OccasionalRelated Comparisons
Similar Size
Australian Shepherd vs Belgian Tervuren →Similar Size
Australian Shepherd vs Afghan Hound →