The Tosa Inu (土佐犬, also called the Tosa-Ken and Japanese Mastiff) is a dog breed of Japanese origin that is considered rare. It was originally bred in Tosa, Shikoku (present-day Kōchi), as a fighting dog and the only dog legally allowed in Japanese dog fighting. [1]

Oct 5, 2023 · The Japanese Tosa is among the breeds of dogs unfairly suffering from BSL (breed-specific legislation) and is banned in places like England, Ireland, Australia, and many other countries.

Feb 9, 2022 · The Tosa dog, commonly referred to as the Tosa Inu, Tosa Ken, or Japanese Mastiff, is a large mastiff-type breed with short fur that was developed in Japan for dog fighting. Today, the activity is still legal in Japan, and the breed continues to be used for this purpose.

Mar 11, 2025 · Also known as the Tosa Ken or Japanese Mastiff, the Tosa Inu is a well-built dog bred in Tosa, Shikoku, present-day Kochi. The dog’s popularity boomed from the 1920s to 1930s, with more than 5,000 breeders dedicated to breeding them 1 . Though the breed is still legally used for Japanese dogfighting, ownership in some countries is restricted.

Is the Tosa the right breed for you? Learn more about the Tosa including personality, history, grooming, pictures, videos, and the AKC breed standard.

Learn all about the Japanese Mastiff - Tosa Inu. Discover their personality, history, health & care. READ HERE.

Aug 30, 2023 · The Tosa Inu originates from the Tosa Province, hence their name. The area is now the Kochi Prefecture, the southwestern part of Shikoku Island. They are relatively popular in Japan, although their large size and dominant personality make them less suited to many family homes than other Japanese dog breeds.

Feb 28, 2025 · Few dogs are as large and as imposing as the Tosa. They’re massive pups with a fearsome appearance, but the more you get to know them, the more they turn into lovable giants. They might look...

Feb 22, 2022 · Tosa (Tosa Inu) The Tosa is known as the sumo wrestler of the canine world. Learn what it takes to care for these dogs that excel in size, patience, and courage.

The Tosa Inu, often referred to simply as the Tosa, is a Japanese breed of dog known for its imposing size, strength, and remarkable history.