Tosa

The Tosa does well on a high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian's supervision and approval. Match the diet to your dog's life stage, whether puppy, adult, or senior, and keep clean, fresh water available at all times.

Some Tosas are prone to gaining weight, so keep an eye on calorie intake and overall condition. Treats are useful for training, but too many can lead to weight gain, so give them in moderation.

Learn which human foods are safe for dogs and which are not, and check with your vet about any concern over your dog's weight or diet.

The Tosa's short, dense coat needs little grooming. An occasional brushing keeps it looking its best, and an occasional bath keeps it clean.

The strong, fast-growing nails need regular trimming with a clipper or grinder to prevent overgrowth, splitting, and cracking. Check the ears regularly for any buildup of wax and debris that could lead to infection, and brush the teeth regularly.

Tosas are a calm breed by nature, but even low-energy dogs need exercise to hold a healthy weight and stay mentally engaged. Daily walks and run time in a securely fenced yard both work well.

Activity can come from indoors too, such as chasing a ball rolled along the floor or learning new tricks. Outdoor outings like hiking or retrieving give it a good outlet for its energy.

Training for dog sports such as agility, obedience, and rally is another way to keep it active and to work its mind, which suits a breed with fairly high mental-stimulation needs.

Handlers should choose a Tosa whose size is within their physical ability to control. Routine training should teach the dog to follow directions, while the handler also develops the skill to manage the dog. Handlers can improve those skills through exchanges with experienced Tosa association members while building trust with the dog. Training should begin early and include substantial socialization, with particular attention to males. For a Tosa puppy, classes and training at home should use positive reinforcement, with frequent praise, petting, play, or treats as rewards.

A Tosa should never be allowed to roam or exercise off leash. Crowds should be avoided when possible; in a crowd that cannot be avoided, the dog should wear a muzzle. Suitable ongoing classes give both dog and handler a regular place to continue learning and practicing skills.