Belgian Tervuren vs Tibetan Mastiff

Herding · Large vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Tibetan Mastiff is the larger breed at 90–150 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 Belgian Tervuren is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBelgian TervurenTibetan Mastiff
Group
HerdingWorking
Size
LargeGiant
Origin
BelgiumTibet
Height (male)
24–26"26"
Height (female)
22–24"24"
Weight (male)
55–75 lbs90–150 lbs
Weight (female)
45–60 lbs70–120 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Coat length
longlong
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 Tibetan Mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiff is an aloof, intelligent, ancient Himalayan livestock guardian — the lion-maned protector of monasteries. Originally from Tibet, this giant working breed typically weighs 90–150 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as aloof, intelligent, independent.

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Belgian Tervuren health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Epilepsy
  • Eye disorders

Tibetan Mastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Eye disorders