English Mastiff vs Lhasa Apso

Working · Giant vs Non-Sporting · Small

Quick take
  • English Mastiff is the larger breed at 160–230 lbs (males) vs 12–18 lbs for the Lhasa Apso.
  • The Lhasa Apso typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Lhasa Apso has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Lhasa Apso sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitEnglish MastiffLhasa Apso
Group
WorkingNon-Sporting
Size
GiantSmall
Origin
EnglandTibet
Height (male)
30"10–11"
Height (female)
27.5"10–11"
Weight (male)
160–230 lbs12–18 lbs
Weight (female)
120–170 lbs12–18 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
6–10 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Very High (5/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very High (5/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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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 Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso is a confident, smart, comical Tibetan monastery sentinel — small but feels like a big dog inside. Originally from Tibet, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 12–18 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as confident, smart, comical.

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English Mastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer

Lhasa Apso health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Eye disorders
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Skin issues
  • Kidney disease