Tosa Inu: The Sumo Dog

Tags: dogs, pets, training, tosa inu

I've heard that in some parts in Japan and Korea, dog fighting is still a legalized sport – back in the old days when it was still new, the Japanese were having fun pitting their fighting dog breeds amongst themselves. The local pit fights drew a lot of attention; it caught the eyes of the European fighting dog breeders, which of course led to their participation in the Japanese pits.

Having bigger, stronger, aggressive, and “well-skilled” pooches, the Japanese had their butts kicked on countless occasions. They weren't going to have any of that crap, no way – so they came up with the idea of breeding a more formidable dog. Working with some of the local tough, strong, big, and tall breeds present in their country (such as the Great Dane, Mastiffs, Bulldog, etc.), they were able to create the mighty Tosa Inu.

The results were outrageously successful – a giant dog weighing up to 200 pounds and standing as tall as 30 inches. The coat of it was thick, which protected it from enemy bites and scratches. The Tosa Inu had good stamina and the determination to win each and every fight it was put into (heart of a champion).

Full of courage as well, they would never back down from a fight nor would they shiver in fear, as expected from a “lesser” dog breed. Pit fighting in Japan was more civilized as compared to that of other countries – they had rules that needed to be strictly complied with, and the animals weren't allowed to fight to the death.

Though the latter was sometimes unavoidable, they tried as best as they can to prevent it from happening. Another rule was the contestant should be silent – meaning they shouldn't be making noise while wrestling and biting each others limbs off. You couldn't have a crazed dog with bubbles popping out of its mouth barking non-stop.

They had to be civilized and somewhat silent. The Tosa Inu may be viciously strong, tough, and very good at killing, but it's rather friendly towards people. They actually love human companionship and can be really sweet and all. They are very tolerant unless pushed – when pushed it'll pop your eyes out.

A dog with this much potential and strength cannot be owned by anyone. They'll require an owner that has experience with dog training methods suitable for this monster, and should start while it's still a puppy. They can make a good guard dog, but again this isn't for an inexperienced individual.

Canine behavioral lessons should start at the earliest age possible, as well as socialization. Have it mingle with the other pets and humans and town. They have the tendency to get rough with other dogs, especially ones that like to pick on others. Believe me when I say it'll end badly for the other pooch; the Tosa Inu has the tendency to relentlessly attack till its opponent is dead.

If your entering in legal pit fighting, I'm not approving of the act or anything (I find it to be inhumane), then the Tosa Inu breed is the one for you.

About the author

Alex De La Cruz is a successful Dog Trainer who has been advising and coaching dog owners for many years. Alex now decided to share his knowledge through this site, Doggyweb.info. You can sign up for his free weekly newsletter and learn how to keep your dog healthy and happy.

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