Cairn Terrier vs Tosa
Compare Cairn Terrier and Tosa side by side and get a clear picture of what sets the breeds apart. Explore differences in size, weight, temperament, activity level, and other key traits to more easily decide which breed best fits your lifestyle and circumstances.
Characteristic
Cairn Terrier
Tosa
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
28 – 31 cm
70 – 75 cm
Weight
7 – 8 kg
60 – 90 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 17 years
10 – 12 years
Child friendly
5/5
3/5
Energy level
3/5
3/5
Intelligence
3/5
3/5
Trainability
4/5
4/5
Health
4/5
3/5
Grooming needs
4/5
1/5
Shedding
1/5
2/5
Barking level
4/5
3/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
3/5
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Characteristics
Cairn Terrier
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
Tosa
Low grooming
Easy to train
Giant
Summary
About Cairn Terrier
Small, sturdy Scottish terrier bred to hunt among rocky cairns. Around 28–31 cm tall with a harsh, weatherproof double coat needing regular stripping and brushing. Bold, curious, affectionate, and vocal; enjoys daily walks, mental stimulation, and active family life. Generally hardy and long-lived.
About Tosa
The Tosa is a large, powerful Japanese breed, calm and dignified at home yet naturally protective. Loyal and often devoted to one person, it needs experienced handling, early socialisation and consistent training. Short-coated but high-commitment, it faces legal restrictions in some countries.
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