Saluki vs. Tosa: Breed Differences and Similarities

Saluki

Saluki

Tosa

Tosa

Hypoallergenic

Are Salukis or Tosas hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Saluki 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 Saluki and Tosa dog breeds?

Middle East

Japan

Ancestry

What are the origins of Saluki and Tosa breeds?

sighthound, greyhound-like dog

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

Date of Birth

When were Saluki and Tosa breeds first developed?

2100 BC

1800s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Saluki and Tosa?

Hound (AKC:1929)
Sighthounds & Pariahs (UKC)

Guardian Dog (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Saluki and Tosa dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Saluki and Tosa?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

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

White
Fawn
Cream
Red

Fawn
Red
Brindle
Black

Coat Length

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

3 / 5

Salukis 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 Saluki and Tosa?

2 / 5

3 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Saluki and Tosa?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Saluki and Tosa?

A Saluki can have a litter of 12-14 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 Saluki and Tosa breeds?

Heart Problems
Cancer

Hip Dysplasia
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat

Minor Concerns

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

Allergies
Anesthesia Sensitivity/Allergy

Eye Problems

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Saluki and Tosa breeds?

Cardiac
Blood Test
Physical Examination

OFA
CERF
X-Rays
Full Physical Examination

Past times

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

Jogging, Sniffing, Walking

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

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Salukis or Tosas?

Both Saluki 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 Saluki or Tosa walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Saluki, 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 Salukis or Tosas require more exercise?

Both Saluki and Tosa 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 Saluki and Tosa dogs?

Saluki 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 Salukis and Tosas?

Slicker Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Cups

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

For an average 45-65 pound (20 - 29 kg) Saluki 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, Saluki or Tosa?

The average cost of a Saluki 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, Saluki or Tosa?

The average per month expenses of a Saluki 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 Saluki with other breeds