Havanese vs Tibetan Mastiff

Toy · Small vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Tibetan Mastiff is the larger breed at 90–150 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

TraitHavaneseTibetan Mastiff
Group
ToyWorking
Size
SmallGiant
Origin
CubaTibet
Height (male)
8.5–11.5"26"
Height (female)
8.5–11.5"24"
Weight (male)
7–13 lbs90–150 lbs
Weight (female)
7–13 lbs70–120 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
14–16 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)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.
Very Low (1/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Coat length
longlong
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 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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Havanese health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Heart problems

Tibetan Mastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Eye disorders