Schnu vs Tosa Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Schnu or Japanese Mastiff?

Compare the Schnu and Tosa breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Schnu or a Japanese Mastiff? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

Japanese Mastiff, Tosa-Inu

Weight

What is the average weight of Schnu and Tosa?

17.5 pounds ( 8 kg )

145.0 pounds ( 66 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Schnu and Tosa

14.0 inches ( 35.6 cm )

25.0 inches ( 63.5 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Schnus or Tosas hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Schnu nor Tosa are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Origin

What is the origin of Schnu and Tosa dog breeds?

United States

Japan

Ancestry

What are the origins of Schnu and Tosa breeds?

Shiba Inu, Miniature Schnauzer

Kocki, Shikoku, Mastiff, German Pointer, St. Bernard

Date of Birth

When were Schnu and Tosa breeds first developed?

Unknown

1800s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Schnu and Tosa dogs?

Brown
Amber

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Schnu and Tosa?

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Schnu and Tosa breeds?

Black
Fawn
White
Red
Brown

Fawn
Red
Brindle
Black

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Schnu and Tosa breeds?

Schnus have medium-length coats.

Tosas have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Schnu and Tosa?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Schnu and Tosa?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Schnu and Tosa?

4-8 puppies per pregnancy

A Schnu can have a litter of 4-8 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

10-12 puppies per pregnancy

A Tosa can have a litter of 10-12 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Schnu and Tosa breeds?

Patellar Luxation
Canine Hip Dysplasia (Chd)
Von Willebrand's Disease
Urinary Stones

Hip Dysplasia
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Schnu and Tosa?

Cataracts
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Eye Problems

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Schnu and Tosa breeds?

Urinalysis
Internal Imaging (x-ray, CT scan, MRI, etc.)
Blood And Urine Analysis
Buccal Mucosal Screening
Complete Ophthalmologic Examination
Full Body Physical Examination especially of the joints
Blood Tests and Blood Count

OFA
CERF
X-Rays
Full Physical Examination

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Schnu and Tosa entertained?

Run

Cuddling, Chasing stick, Going on drives, Going on walks, Photo shoots, Playing, MAJOR cuddler

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Schnus or Tosas?

High

Schnus are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Medium

Tosas are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Walks per Week

How many miles should Schnu or Tosa walk each week?

10 miles / week

Schnu and Tosa generally need a minimum of 10 miles of walking per week, but it can be increased as long as they are comfortable with it.

Activity per Day

Do Schnus or Tosas require more exercise?

60 minutes

Both Schnu and Tosa typically require a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise each day. The exercise can be spread throughout the day and may involve high-energy activities like walking, running, and playing.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Schnu and Tosa dogs?

Daily

Ideally, Schnu should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Weekly

Tosa should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Schnus and Tosas?

Pin Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Schnu or Tosa in cups?

1 cups

For an average 15-20 pound (7 - 9 kg) Schnu feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

4 cups

For an average 120-170 pound (54 - 77 kg) Tosa feed 4 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Schnu or Tosa?

$1.40 - $2.80 / day

The average cost of a Schnu is somewhere $1.40 - $2.80 per day.

$3.90 - $4.20 / day

The average cost of a Tosa is somewhere $3.90 - $4.20 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Schnu or Tosa?

$35 - $49 / month

The average per month expenses of a Schnu is between $35 - $49. This makes an average of $420 - $588 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$112 - $126 / month

The average per month expenses of a Tosa is between $112 - $126. This makes an average of $1344 - $1512 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.