English Mastiff vs Leonberger

Working · Giant vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • English Mastiff is the larger breed at 160–230 lbs (males) vs 110–170 lbs for the Leonberger.
  • The Leonberger typically lives longer (7–10 years).
  • The Leonberger has higher daily energy needs.
  • The English Mastiff sheds less.
  • The Leonberger is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitEnglish MastiffLeonberger
Group
WorkingWorking
Size
GiantGiant
Origin
EnglandGermany
Height (male)
30"28–31.5"
Height (female)
27.5"25.5–29.5"
Weight (male)
160–230 lbs110–170 lbs
Weight (female)
120–170 lbs90–140 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)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
Ad slot · compare-mid

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 Leonberger

The Leonberger is a friendly, gentle, playful giant — bred to resemble a lion, with a famous black-masked golden mane. Originally from Germany, this giant working breed typically weighs 110–170 lbs and lives 7–10 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, gentle, playful.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

English Mastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer

Leonberger health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bone cancer
  • Bloat
  • Polyneuropathy