Havanese vs Mastiff

Toy · Small vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Mastiff is the larger breed at 160–230 lbs (males) vs 7–13 lbs for the Havanese.
  • The Havanese typically lives longer (14–16 years).
  • The Havanese has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Havanese sheds less.
  • The Havanese is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitHavaneseMastiff
Group
ToyWorking
Size
SmallGiant
Origin
CubaEngland
Height (male)
8.5–11.5"30"
Height (female)
8.5–11.5"27.5"
Weight (male)
7–13 lbs160–230 lbs
Weight (female)
7–13 lbs120–170 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
14–16 years6–10 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very High (5/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very Low (1/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Havanese

The Havanese is an intelligent, outgoing, funny lapdog — Cuba's national dog with a silky, hypoallergenic coat. Originally from Cuba, this small toy breed typically weighs 7–13 lbs and lives 14–16 years. Breeders describe them as intelligent, outgoing, funny.

About the Mastiff

The Mastiff is a courageous, dignified, good-natured giant — one of the most ancient breeds, formerly war dogs. 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.

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Havanese health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Heart problems

Mastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer