English Mastiff vs Great Dane

Working · Giant vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • English Mastiff is the larger breed at 160–230 lbs (males) vs 140–175 lbs for the Great Dane.
  • The Great Dane typically lives longer (7–10 years).
  • The Great Dane has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Great Dane is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitEnglish MastiffGreat Dane
Group
WorkingWorking
Size
GiantGiant
Origin
EnglandGermany
Height (male)
30"30–32"
Height (female)
27.5"28–30"
Weight (male)
160–230 lbs140–175 lbs
Weight (female)
120–170 lbs110–140 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
6–10 years7–10 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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.

About the Great Dane

The Great Dane is a friendly, patient, dependable giant — the 'Apollo of dogs' is sweet-natured despite imposing size. Originally from Germany, this giant working breed typically weighs 140–175 lbs and lives 7–10 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, patient, dependable.

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English Mastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer

Great Dane health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer