English Mastiff vs Irish Water Spaniel
Working · Giant vs Sporting · Large
English MastiffGiant
A courageous, dignified, good-natured giant — the heaviest dog breed, ancient British war hounds.
Weight: 160–230 lbsLifespan: 6–10 years
Irish Water SpanielLarge
A playful, hardworking, brave water retriever — Ireland's sporting clown with a famous rat-tail.
Weight: 55–68 lbsLifespan: 12–13 years
Quick take
- • English Mastiff is the larger breed at 160–230 lbs (males) vs 55–68 lbs for the Irish Water Spaniel.
- • The Irish Water Spaniel typically lives longer (12–13 years).
- • The Irish Water Spaniel has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Irish Water Spaniel sheds less.
- • The Irish Water Spaniel is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | English Mastiff | Irish Water Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
Group | Working | Sporting |
Size | Giant | Large |
Origin | England | Ireland |
Height (male) | 30" | 22–24" |
Height (female) | 27.5" | 21–23" |
Weight (male) | 160–230 lbs | 55–68 lbs |
Weight (female) | 120–170 lbs | 45–58 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 6–10 years | 12–13 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very Low (1/5) | High (4/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very High (5/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | short | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
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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 Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is a playful, hardworking, brave water retriever — Ireland's sporting clown with a famous rat-tail. Originally from Ireland, this large sporting breed typically weighs 55–68 lbs and lives 12–13 years. Breeders describe them as playful, hardworking, brave.
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English Mastiff health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Heart disease
- • Cancer
Irish Water Spaniel health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Hypothyroidism