English Mastiff vs Schipperke

Working · Giant vs Non-Sporting · Small

Quick take
  • English Mastiff is the larger breed at 160–230 lbs (males) vs 10–16 lbs for the Schipperke.
  • The Schipperke typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Schipperke has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Schipperke is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitEnglish MastiffSchipperke
Group
WorkingNon-Sporting
Size
GiantSmall
Origin
EnglandBelgium
Height (male)
30"11–13"
Height (female)
27.5"10–12"
Weight (male)
160–230 lbs10–16 lbs
Weight (female)
120–170 lbs10–16 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
6–10 years12–14 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)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)Low (2/5)
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)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortmedium
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 Schipperke

The Schipperke is a confident, alert, curious Belgian barge dog — small black 'little captain' with foxy face and ruff. Originally from Belgium, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 10–16 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as confident, alert, curious.

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English Mastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer

Schipperke health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • MPS IIIB
  • Patellar luxation
  • Hypothyroidism