Belgian Tervuren vs English Mastiff

Herding · Large vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • English Mastiff is the larger breed at 160–230 lbs (males) vs 55–75 lbs for the Belgian Tervuren.
  • The Belgian Tervuren typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Belgian Tervuren has higher daily energy needs.
  • The English Mastiff sheds less.
  • The Belgian Tervuren is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBelgian TervurenEnglish Mastiff
Group
HerdingWorking
Size
LargeGiant
Origin
BelgiumEngland
Height (male)
24–26"30"
Height (female)
22–24"27.5"
Weight (male)
55–75 lbs160–230 lbs
Weight (female)
45–60 lbs120–170 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years6–10 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
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)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
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Belgian Tervuren

The Belgian Tervuren is a courageous, smart, alert Belgian shepherd — long-haired cousin of the Malinois with rich mahogany coat. Originally from Belgium, this large herding breed typically weighs 55–75 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, smart, alert.

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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Belgian Tervuren health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Epilepsy
  • Eye disorders

English Mastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer