Boston Spaniel vs. Tosa: Breed Differences and Similarities

Boston Spaniel

Boston Spaniel

Tosa

Tosa

Hypoallergenic

Are Boston Spaniels or Tosas hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Boston Spaniel 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 Boston Spaniel and Tosa dog breeds?

United States

Japan

Ancestry

What are the origins of Boston Spaniel and Tosa breeds?

Cocker Spaniel and Boston Terrier

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

Date of Birth

When were Boston Spaniel and Tosa breeds first developed?

Unknown

1800s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Boston Spaniel and Tosa dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Boston Spaniel and Tosa?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

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

Black
White
Brown
Sable

Fawn
Red
Brindle
Black

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Boston Spaniel and Tosa breeds?

3 / 5

Boston Spaniels have medium-length coats.

2 / 5

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

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Boston Spaniel and Tosa?

3 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Boston Spaniel and Tosa?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Boston Spaniel and Tosa?

A Boston Spaniel can have a litter of 6-8 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.

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 Boston Spaniel and Tosa breeds?

Patellar Luxation
Glaucoma
Hip Dysplasia
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
Dry Eye

Hip Dysplasia
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat

Minor Concerns

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

Cataracts
Hypothyroidism
Heart Murmur

Eye Problems

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Boston Spaniel and Tosa breeds?

X-Rays
Eye Examination
Electrocardiogram
Complete Blood Count
Thyroid Panel
vonWillebrand’s Disease Test
Buccal Mucosal Bleeding Time (BMBT)

OFA
CERF
X-Rays
Full Physical Examination

Past times

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

Chase, Cuddling, Nap, Ball play, Tug-of-war, Go to Park, Walk, Groom, Hike, Play, Fetch, Speak, Family Outings, Dog Parks, Eating Snacks, Dressing up, Playdate, Catch treats, Nose work, Tracking, Puzzle Toys

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

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Boston Spaniels or Tosas?

Both Boston Spaniel and Tosa 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 Boston Spaniel or Tosa walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Boston Spaniel, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

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.

Activity per Day

Do Boston Spaniels or Tosas require more exercise?

In general most Boston Spaniels usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Tosas usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Boston Spaniel and Tosa dogs?

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

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 Boston Spaniels and Tosas?

Slicker Brush
Comb
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Cups

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

For an average 10-28 pound (5 - 13 kg) Boston Spaniel feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

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, Boston Spaniel or Tosa?

Boston Spaniel and Tosa have a similar average daily cost of around $3.90 - $4.20.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Boston Spaniel or Tosa?

The average per month expenses of a Boston Spaniel is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 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.

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.

Compare Boston Spaniel with other breeds