Shetland Sheepdog vs Tosa
Breed Compatibility
64% Compatible
Energy Level
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Tosa: Calm0.4
Very Compatible
Trainability
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Tosa: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Tosa: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Tosa3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Tosa1/5
Good with Strangers
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Tosa1/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Shetland Sheepdog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clotting
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision problems
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
MDR1 Gene: Medicine sensitivity
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
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
Shetland Sheepdog
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent family dog
Low maintenance cost
Good with children
Cons
Excessive barking tendency
Heavy shedding
Can be shy with strangers
Requires extensive grooming
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
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Tosa Fun Fact
Known as the 'Sumo wrestler' of dog breeds in Japan due to their historical fighting heritage.
Heritage & Purpose
Shetland Sheepdog
Origin:
Developed in the Shetland Islands during the 1800s, these dogs were bred to herd sheep and small livestock across rugged terrain while being compact enough to maintain on limited resources.
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
Shetland Sheepdog
Regular grooming sessions needed for double coat maintenance. Requires early socialization to prevent shyness. Tendency to bark needs early training attention.
Tosa
Requires early socialization, consistent training, and secure fencing. Regular joint monitoring and weight management crucial. Moderate grooming needs.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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