Tosa vs Hovawart
Breed Compatibility
76% Compatible
Energy Level
Tosa: Calm0.4
Hovawart: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Tosa: Agreeable0.6
Hovawart: May be Stubborn0.2
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Tosa: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Hovawart: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Luxury
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Tosa3/5
Hovawart4/5
Good with Other Dogs
Tosa1/5
Hovawart4/5
Good with Strangers
Tosa1/5
Hovawart4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
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
Hovawart
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
Heart Disease: Cardiac health concerns
Bloat: Digestive emergency risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Pros & Cons Comparison
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
Hovawart
Pros
Loyal and protective
Intelligent
Good with family
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
Strong-willed
Needs extensive training
High exercise needs
Reserved with strangers
Tosa Fun Fact
Known as the 'Sumo wrestler' of dog breeds in Japan due to their historical fighting heritage.
Hovawart Fun Fact
Hovawarts were mentioned in German law books from the 13th century as valuable property worth defending.
Heritage & Purpose
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.
Hovawart
Origin:
Developed in medieval Germany as estate guardians and working farm dogs. Black Forest farmers valued these dogs for their protective instincts and versatile working abilities.
Special Considerations
Tosa
Requires early socialization, consistent training, and secure fencing. Regular joint monitoring and weight management crucial. Moderate grooming needs.
Hovawart
Needs consistent training from an early age. Regular grooming during shedding seasons. Exercise requirements must be met daily to prevent behavioral issues.