Tosa vs Smithfield - Breed Comparison | Petzlover

Tosa vs Smithfield - Breed ComparisonSmithfield is originated from United Kingdom but Tosa is originated from Japan. Smithfield may grow 29 cm / 11 inches shorter than Tosa. Smithfield may weigh 65 kg / 143 pounds lesser than Tosa. Both Smithfield and Tosa has almost same life span. Both Smithfield and Tosa has same litter size. Smithfield requires Moderate Maintenance. But Tosa requires Low Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Miscellaneous dogs
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United Kingdom
Japan
Height Male:
46 - 53 cm
18 - 21 inches
62 - 82 cm
24 - 33 inches
Height Female:
46 - 53 cm
18 - 21 inches
62 - 82 cm
24 - 33 inches
Weight Male:
16 - 25 kg
35 - 56 pounds
54 - 90 kg
119 - 199 pounds
Weight Female:
16 - 25 kg
35 - 56 pounds
54 - 90 kg
119 - 199 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 14 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 8
6 - 8
Size:
Medium
Large
Other Names:
Smithy, Tasmanian Smithfield
Tosa-Inu, Japanese Mastiff
Colors Available:
grey or reddish brown., black, White
Caramel, fawn tan, black or brindle
Coat:
Medium length, rough shaggy
Short, smooth, dense
Shedding:
Minimal
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

smithfieldThe Smithfield is also known as the Smithfield, Smithy or Tasmanian Smithfield and is a herding dog found in Australia but originating in the UK. There is also the possibility that there was an Australian dog bred at a place known as Smithfield, near Texas which is just inside the Queensland border.

It is thought by some that the Smithfield is extinct. The dog was first introduced to the Land Down Under in colonial times.

The Smithfield isn’t recognised by the Canine Councils, but in 1862 the first Dog Show was held in Australia.

tosaKnown also as the Japanese Mastiff, the Tosa hails from Japan. In fact, these dogs come from the Tosa Province, so the dog was named after the region where they were bred.

It is why they are sometimes referred to as Japanese Mastiffs. The Tosa is a rare dog breed and unfortunately, the dog is still used in Japan for dogfighting.

Thought to be a dangerous dog breed, it is restricted in some countries.

The breed was developed in the 2nd half of the 19th century, with a number of dog breeds being involved to bring about a more powerful, braver dog.

Description

smithfield puppy - descriptionThe Smithfield is a medium to large sized dog, strong and square-bodied with a wedge shaped head. Many people liken his looks to a Bearded Collie.

He has a rough, medium length coat. The coat has different colors such as white, black, grey or reddish brown. The coat is shaggy and in fact they are often clipped to give them a groomed look and to prevent grass and burrs clinging to the coat.

The tail of the dog can either be a natural bobtail or it could have a longer tail. When the tail is long it is carried low with an upward turn at the tip. The ears are mostly floppy and held close to the head.

He stands at between 46 to 53cm in height and weighs between 16 and 25kg. A bright, alert expression is a distinctive feature of the Smithfield.

Temperament:

The Smithfield is an active, robust dog and they have well balanced, stable personalities. They are often described as being laid-back.

You won’t find any signs of shyness or aggression with these dogs and they are known to be gentle and calm. They are self confident and well adjusted and also hard working.

They are devoted and loving to their human family and are also intelligent. When they’ve been trained and socialized they make splendid family pets, wonderful with children, just loving to run and play. These are dogs you can rely on to be consistent in nature.

tosa puppy - descriptionThe Tosa is a large dog, but their sizes vary, and in fact, because of their fighting, they are actually divided into light-, middleweight and heavyweight classes.

Generally, you can say that these dogs weigh in the region of 54 to 90kg and they stand in height at between 62 to 82cm. The head is large, the jaws powerful, the eyes dark brown in color, the ears small, high set and floppy.

The neck is broad wit a dewlap and the tail is long, thick and tapering to a point. The coat is short and thick and is most times a rich caramel color, fawn tan, black or brindle. The dog often has a black mask.

Temperament:

The Tosa is a fairly quiet dog, courageous and fearless. He is going to need a strong, consistent owner who shows leadership with him. Training and socialization will be imperative for this dog.

When he has been properly reared and trained, he makes a good pet, able to get on with members of the family. He takes his role as protector and guardian seriously.

Characteristics

smithfield dog - characteristicsThose who have owned a Smithfield love them and say that once you’ve owned one, you’ll want another.

These easy going dogs have all the characteristics necessary to ensure a good pet, playmate and companion. They are devoted to their human family, and given the chance will become a very special 4-legged member of any family who appreciates the friendship a such a dog offers.

tosa dog - characteristicsThe Tosa isn’t recommended for first-time dog owners, as in the wrong hands, they can become aggressive. Care has to be taken around children too especially undisciplined ones.

He also doesn't come as recommended for small, cramped homes in the city. He’s just too big and he will need to get out and be walked often.

You want to create a home for him that ensures he is the calm, gentle dog he is capable of being, If you’re fair, firm, caring, patient and consistent, then this big dog might be for you. With the right care he becomes a gentle, devoted pet.

Health Problems

smithfield puppies - health problemsThese dogs enjoy exceptional good health and can reach between 10 and 14 years of age.

You have to be careful with your pet however, because there are quite a few common dog illnesses that can plague your pet, and we look at a few -

Canine Distemper:

This is caused by a contagious virus. Infected dogs develop symptoms such as runny eyes, fever, coughing, vomiting and even seizures. Unfortunately this disease is often fatal. There is luckily a vaccine against it and it is highly recommended for your pet.

Canine parvovirus:

Also a very contagious disease which attacks the gastrointestinal system, causing fever, vomiting and diarrhea. It is often spread by contaminated stools and feeding utensils of dogs. Many dogs die from parvo but there is also a vaccine against it.

Heatstroke:

This is terrible for your pet and is a huge risk for dogs during Summer. Never leave your pet in a car unattended, especially on a hot day. Remember that stub-nosed dogs such as Boxers, Pugs, Bulldogs and Boston Terriers are more prone to respiratory problems and heat can be deadly for them.

tosa puppies - health problemsThe Tosa is a formidable looking molossoid, but even so, this big, calm dog can succumb to illness. Some of these diseases you need to be looking out for include bloat,hip dyslasia and eye conditions.

Bloat for this dog can be life-threatening, and can often be because the dog is too hungry and he gobbles up his food quickly. Bloat is when gas can't escape, the stomach swells and twists – very dangerous. Rather give your dog two smaller meals – one in the morning and one in the evening, or even give several smaller portions throughout the day.

To help with eliminating health issues always choose a reputable Tosa breeder. You’re not likely to find one of these dogs in a dog shelter.

Caring The Pet

Exercise:

smithfield dogs - caringThe Smithfield has plenty of energy and loves nothing more than lots of games with the children. He will also look forward to a walk every day as well as other activities.

Grooming:

When it comes to grooming, you can save money by grooming your dog at home. Whether you have your pet’s hair cut or you leave it as is, get into the habit of brushing the fur at least twice a week. You can speak to your vet or groomer and get advice on what comb of brush to use on your Smithfield.

It you want to cut your pet’s hair, it is important to use the right equipment so you don't accidentally injure him. Certainly if you feel unsure about shaving your dog at home, leave this grooming aspect to the experts.

Have your pet’s nails trimmed.

Check your pet’s eyes. They must be clear and bright. Check inside his mouth for bad teeth. Check inside his ears to make sure they aren’t red with infection.

Diet:

Your Smithfield is relying on you to provide him with good food. For convenience, it is always a good idea to have a packet of the best dry kibble there is. Check out the label and make sure to buy one that has a good balance of vitamins and minerals.

Give him some tasty homemade food too. Remember to keep it plain and simple. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots are nutritious and tasty. This food can all be chopped up and small portions added to the dry kibble twice a week as a treat.

You’ll never have to worry about digestion problems with your dog. A little bit of raw meat can also go a long way to ensuring his skin stays healthy and free of skin infections. Ensure that he has a constant supply of fresh, cool water.

Diet:

tosa dogs - caringThese large, strong dogs do well on good quality food. If you opt to buy him commercially manufactured food, make sure it is the top quality one free of unwholesome ingredients such as preservatives, colorants and useless fillers.

Invest in the best quality ones that have nutritious minerals and vitamins. Try and give your dog some home-prepared food too – boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta, spinach, sweet-potatoes and carrots.

Never feed your dog things such as chocolates, peanuts, crisps, grapes, onion and food with spicy flavorings. This will just ensure digestive problems and having to get your dog to the vet.

Cool, fresh water should be available at all times.

Grooming:

The Tosa’s short coat isn’t going to require too much attention. A good brush twice a week will keep it free from loose hair and keep its shine and gleam. It’s why the dog is looked upon as being low maintenance.

Beyond that, he will need to have his nails trimmed. When brushing him, check him over for parasites – ticks and fleas, check for unusual lumps and look inside his ears for signs of redness.

Exercise:

These dogs are calm and fairly low-energy. Nonetheless, to maintain good health, he will need to be exercised. Ball games outside are always a good idea as well as nice long walks. Hikes into the countryside will be wonderful for this big dog.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Tosa vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Tosa vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Tosa vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Tosa vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Tosa vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Tosa vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Tosa vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Tosa vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Tosa vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Tosa vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Tosa vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Tosa vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Tosa vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Tosa vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Tosa vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Tosa vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Tosa vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Tosa vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Tosa vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Tosa vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Tosa vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Tosa vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Tosa vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Tosa vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Tosa vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Smithfield vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Smithfield vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Smithfield vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Smithfield vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Smithfield vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Smithfield vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Smithfield vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Smithfield vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Smithfield vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Smithfield vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Smithfield vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Smithfield vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Smithfield vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Smithfield vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Smithfield vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Smithfield vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Smithfield vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Smithfield vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Smithfield vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Smithfield vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Smithfield vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Smithfield vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Smithfield vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Smithfield vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Smithfield vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison