Border Terrier vs Mastiff
Terrier · Small vs Working · Giant
Border TerrierSmall
An affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered fox-hunting terrier from the English-Scottish border.
Weight: 13–15.5 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 13–15.5 lbs for the Border Terrier.
- • The Border Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Border Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Border Terrier sheds less.
- • The Border Terrier is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Border Terrier | Mastiff |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Working |
Size | Small | Giant |
Origin | England | England |
Height (male) | 13–15" | 30" |
Height (female) | 13–15" | 27.5" |
Weight (male) | 13–15.5 lbs | 160–230 lbs |
Weight (female) | 11.5–14 lbs | 120–170 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 6–10 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. | High (4/5) | 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 | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | 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 | wirehaired | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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About the Border Terrier
The Border Terrier is an affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered fox-hunting terrier from the English-Scottish border. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 13–15.5 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered.
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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Border Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Heart problems
Mastiff health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Heart disease
- • Cancer