Golden Retriever vs Tibetan Mastiff

Sporting · Large vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Tibetan Mastiff is the larger breed at 90–150 lbs (males) vs 65–75 lbs for the Golden Retriever.
  • The Golden Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Tibetan Mastiff sheds less.
  • The Golden Retriever is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitGolden RetrieverTibetan Mastiff
Group
SportingWorking
Size
LargeGiant
Origin
ScotlandTibet
Height (male)
23–24"26"
Height (female)
21.5–22.5"24"
Weight (male)
65–75 lbs90–150 lbs
Weight (female)
55–65 lbs70–120 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)Very Low (1/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Coat length
mediumlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is a friendly, intelligent, devoted gundog — the all-American family dog with a golden coat. Originally from Scotland, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–75 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, intelligent, devoted.

About the Tibetan Mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiff is an aloof, intelligent, ancient Himalayan livestock guardian — the lion-maned protector of monasteries. Originally from Tibet, this giant working breed typically weighs 90–150 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as aloof, intelligent, independent.

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Golden Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Skin conditions

Tibetan Mastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Eye disorders