Australian Shepherd vs Mastiff
Herding · Medium vs Working · Giant
Australian ShepherdMedium
A smart, work-oriented, exuberant herding dog — actually American despite the name; needs a job.
Weight: 50–65 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
MastiffGiant
A courageous, dignified, good-natured giant — one of the most ancient breeds, formerly war dogs.
Weight: 160–230 lbsLifespan: 6–10 years
Quick take
- • Mastiff is the larger breed at 160–230 lbs (males) vs 50–65 lbs for the Australian Shepherd.
- • The Australian Shepherd typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Australian Shepherd has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Mastiff sheds less.
- • The Australian Shepherd is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Australian Shepherd | Mastiff |
|---|---|---|
Group | Herding | Working |
Size | Medium | Giant |
Origin | USA | England |
Height (male) | 20–23" | 30" |
Height (female) | 18–21" | 27.5" |
Weight (male) | 50–65 lbs | 160–230 lbs |
Weight (female) | 40–55 lbs | 120–170 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 6–10 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Very High (5/5) | Low (2/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Very High (5/5) | Low (2/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | medium | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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About the Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is a smart, work-oriented, exuberant herding dog — actually American despite the name; needs a job. Originally from USA, this medium herding breed typically weighs 50–65 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as smart, work-oriented, exuberant.
About the Mastiff
The Mastiff is a courageous, dignified, good-natured giant — one of the most ancient breeds, formerly war dogs. Originally from England, this giant working breed typically weighs 160–230 lbs and lives 6–10 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, dignified, good-natured.
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Australian Shepherd health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Epilepsy
- • Eye problems
- • MDR1 gene mutation
Mastiff health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Heart disease
- • Cancer