Australian Terrier vs English Mastiff

Terrier · Small vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • English Mastiff is the larger breed at 160–230 lbs (males) vs 15–20 lbs for the Australian Terrier.
  • The Australian Terrier typically lives longer (11–15 years).
  • The Australian Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Australian Terrier sheds less.
  • The Australian Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAustralian TerrierEnglish Mastiff
Group
TerrierWorking
Size
SmallGiant
Origin
AustraliaEngland
Height (male)
10–11"30"
Height (female)
10–11"27.5"
Weight (male)
15–20 lbs160–230 lbs
Weight (female)
15–20 lbs120–170 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–15 years6–10 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)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
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
wirehairedshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Australian Terrier

The Australian Terrier is a spirited, alert, courageous Australian outback ratter — the first breed developed Down Under. Originally from Australia, this small terrier breed typically weighs 15–20 lbs and lives 11–15 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, alert, courageous.

About the English Mastiff

The English Mastiff is a courageous, dignified, good-natured giant — the heaviest dog breed, ancient British war hounds. 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 Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Diabetes
  • Allergies

English Mastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer