Bullmastiff vs Labrador Retriever

Working · Large vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Bullmastiff is the larger breed at 110–130 lbs (males) vs 65–80 lbs for the Labrador Retriever.
  • The Labrador Retriever typically lives longer (11–13 years).
  • The Labrador Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Bullmastiff sheds less.
  • The Labrador Retriever is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBullmastiffLabrador Retriever
Group
WorkingSporting
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
EnglandCanada
Height (male)
25–27"22.5–24.5"
Height (female)
24–26"21.5–23.5"
Weight (male)
110–130 lbs65–80 lbs
Weight (female)
100–120 lbs55–70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
7–9 years11–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff is an affectionate, loyal, brave gamekeeper's night dog — Mastiff-Bulldog cross bred to subdue poachers. Originally from England, this large working breed typically weighs 110–130 lbs and lives 7–9 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, loyal, brave.

About the Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever is america's most popular dog — a friendly, outgoing, athletic retriever bred to fetch waterfowl. Originally from Canada, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–80 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, active, outgoing, even-tempered.

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Bullmastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Cancer
  • Heart problems

Labrador Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Obesity
  • Progressive retinal atrophy