Boston Lab vs. Tosa: Breed Differences and Similarities

Boston Lab

Boston Lab

Tosa

Tosa

Hypoallergenic

Are Boston Labs or Tosas hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Boston Lab 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 Lab and Tosa dog breeds?

United States

Japan

Ancestry

What are the origins of Boston Lab and Tosa breeds?

Boston Terrier, Labrador Retriever

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

Date of Birth

When were Boston Lab and Tosa breeds first developed?

Unknown

1800s

Eye Color Possibilites

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

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

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

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

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

Brown
Black
White

Fawn
Red
Brindle
Black

Coat Length

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

2 / 5

The coat of Boston Lab and Tosa dogs ranges in length from short to medium.

Coat Density

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

5 / 5

3 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Boston Lab and Tosa?

Straight

Litter Size

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

A Boston Lab can have a litter of 5-10 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.

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 Lab and Tosa breeds?

Intervertebral Disc Disease
Hip Dysplasia

Hip Dysplasia
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat

Minor Concerns

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

Patellar Luxation

Eye Problems

Occasional Tests

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

X-Rays
Urinalysis
Full Blood Work
General Physical Examination

OFA
CERF
X-Rays
Full Physical Examination

Past times

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

Fetch, Hide & Seek, Walking, Tug-of-war, Tug of War, Nature walk, Frisbee, Chase, Snuggles, Hike, Walk, Run, Nap, Dog Parks, Tag, Running, Shake, Swim, Dressing up

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

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Boston Labs or Tosas?

Boston Labs 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.

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 Boston Lab 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 Lab, it's at least 9 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 Labs or Tosas require more exercise?

In general most Boston Labs usually need at least 120 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 Lab and Tosa dogs?

Boston Lab and 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 Labs and Tosas?

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Cups

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

For an average 27-50 pound (12 - 23 kg) Boston Lab 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 Lab or Tosa?

The average cost of a Boston Lab is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

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

Monthly Cost

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

The average per month expenses of a Boston Lab 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 Lab with other breeds