Tosa vs Shetland Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
64% Compatible
Energy Level
Tosa: Calm0.4
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Tosa: Agreeable0.6
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Tosa: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Luxury
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Tosa3/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Tosa1/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Strangers
Tosa1/5
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
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
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
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
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 Fun Fact
Known as the 'Sumo wrestler' of dog breeds in Japan due to their historical fighting heritage.
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
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.
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.
Special Considerations
Tosa
Requires early socialization, consistent training, and secure fencing. Regular joint monitoring and weight management crucial. Moderate grooming needs.
Shetland Sheepdog
Regular grooming sessions needed for double coat maintenance. Requires early socialization to prevent shyness. Tendency to bark needs early training attention.