Boston Terrier vs Mastiff
Non-Sporting · Small vs Working · Giant
Boston TerrierSmall
A friendly, bright, amusing 'American Gentleman' in a tuxedo coat — born in Boston, the original AKC breed.
Weight: 12–25 lbsLifespan: 11–13 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 12–25 lbs for the Boston Terrier.
- • The Boston Terrier typically lives longer (11–13 years).
- • The Boston Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Boston Terrier sheds less.
- • The Boston Terrier is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Boston Terrier | Mastiff |
|---|---|---|
Group | Non-Sporting | Working |
Size | Small | Giant |
Origin | USA | England |
Height (male) | 15–17" | 30" |
Height (female) | 15–17" | 27.5" |
Weight (male) | 12–25 lbs | 160–230 lbs |
Weight (female) | 12–25 lbs | 120–170 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 11–13 years | 6–10 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Moderate (3/5) | 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. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Low (2/5) | 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 | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Low (2/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | short | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
Ad slot · compare-mid
About the Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is a friendly, bright, amusing 'American Gentleman' in a tuxedo coat — born in Boston, the original AKC breed. Originally from USA, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 12–25 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, bright, amusing.
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.
Ad slot · compare-bottom
Boston Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Brachycephalic syndrome
- • Eye problems
- • Patellar luxation
- • Allergies
Mastiff health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Heart disease
- • Cancer