West Highland White Terrier vs Tosa
Breed Compatibility
76% Compatible
Energy Level
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Tosa: Calm0.4
Very Compatible
Trainability
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Tosa: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Tosa: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Tosa3/5
Good with Other Dogs
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Tosa1/5
Good with Strangers
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Tosa1/5
Living Requirements
Health & Care Comparison
West Highland White Terrier
Craniomandibular Osteopathy: Jaw bone growth
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Addison's Disease: Hormone deficiency
White Shaker Syndrome: Tremor condition
Pulmonary Fibrosis: Lung tissue scarring
Skin Allergies: Dermatological issues
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
West Highland White Terrier
Pros
Adaptable to different living situations
Good with families
Low-shedding coat
Alert watchdog
Cons
Can be stubborn
Regular grooming required
May chase small animals
Can be vocal
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
West Highland White Terrier Fun Fact
Their white coat was specifically bred after a farmer accidentally shot his reddish-brown terrier, mistaking it for a fox!
Tosa Fun Fact
Known as the 'Sumo wrestler' of dog breeds in Japan due to their historical fighting heritage.
Heritage & Purpose
West Highland White Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Scotland during the 1800s, these terriers were bred to hunt rats, foxes, and other vermin in the Scottish Highlands, with their white coat making them easily distinguishable from prey.
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
West Highland White Terrier
Regular grooming is essential for their double coat. They need consistent training to manage terrier stubbornness and require proper socialization to prevent small animal chasing.
Tosa
Requires early socialization, consistent training, and secure fencing. Regular joint monitoring and weight management crucial. Moderate grooming needs.