Tosa inu

The Inu is a massive dog with some variations weighing anywhere between 130 to 200 lbs. and can reach heights of 24.5 to 32 inches.

Originally bred to be a fighting dog, it is considered dangerous and legally restricted in some countries.

The Tosa's temperament is marked by patience, composure, boldness and courage. He is normally a tranquil, quiet, and obedient dog, with a calm but vigilant demeanor. With a stately manner and robust build, they were formerly bred for fighting, but are now used as watchdogs.

HISTORY

Japan has a long history of dog fighting. Beginning in the 14th century. On the island of shikoku, The Shikoku Ino had been unequaled in the japanese dog fighting arenas before Westeners arrived. Shortly after commodore Perry's arrival in japan in 1854, Japanese dog fanciers and dog fighter's began acquiring foreign dogs to cross with their native stocks. The Tosa breed was produced as a hybrid of Shikoku-ken and western breeds after european and western traders brough their mastiff-type fighting dogs with them.