Tosa vs Leonberger Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Tosa-Inu or Leo?

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

Differences only

Other names

Japanese Mastiff, Tosa-Inu

Leonbergi, Gentle Giant, Leo, Gentle Lion

Weight

What is the average weight of Tosa and Leonberger?

145.0 pounds ( 66 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Tosa and Leonberger

25.0 inches ( 63.5 cm )

29.5 inches ( 74.9 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Tosas or Leonbergers hypoallergenic, or neither?

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

Origin

What is the origin of Tosa and Leonberger dog breeds?

Japan

Germany

Ancestry

What are the origins of Tosa and Leonberger breeds?

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

newfoundland, long haired saint bernard, pyrenean mountain dog

Date of Birth

When were Tosa and Leonberger breeds first developed?

1800s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Tosa and Leonberger?

Guardian Dog (UKC)

Working (AKC:2010)
Guardian Dogs (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Tosa and Leonberger dogs?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Tosa and Leonberger?

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

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

Fawn
Red
Brindle
Black

Black
Gray
Brown
Red
Cream
Sable
Brindle

Coat Length

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

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

Leonbergers have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

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

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Tosa and Leonberger?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Tosa and Leonberger?

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.

8-10 puppies per pregnancy

A Leonberger can have a litter of 8-10 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 Tosa and Leonberger breeds?

Hip Dysplasia
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat

Hip Dysplasia
Eye Problems

Minor Concerns

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

Eye Problems

Laryngeal Paralysis
Inherited Leonberger Polyneuropathy

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Tosa and Leonberger breeds?

OFA
CERF
X-Rays
Full Physical Examination

Hip X-Rays
Eyes
Hips
Skeletal
Physical Examination
Throat

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Tosas or Leonbergers?

Medium

Both Tosa and Leonberger are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Walks per Week

How many miles should Tosa or Leonberger walk each week?

10 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Tosa, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

15 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Leonberger, it's at least 15 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Tosas or Leonbergers require more exercise?

60 minutes

Both Tosa and Leonberger 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 Tosa and Leonberger dogs?

Weekly

Tosa and Leonberger 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 Tosas and Leonbergers?

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

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

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.

4.5 cups

For an average 120-170 pound (54 - 77 kg) Leonberger feed 4.5 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, Tosa or Leonberger?

$3.90 - $4.20 / day

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

$4.20 - $4.90 / day

The average cost of a Leonberger is somewhere $4.20 - $4.90 per day.

Monthly Cost

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

$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.

$126 - $147 / month

The average per month expenses of a Leonberger is between $126 - $147. This makes an average of $1512 - $1764 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.