Irish Terrier vs Tibetan Mastiff

Terrier · Medium vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Tibetan Mastiff is the larger breed at 90–150 lbs (males) vs 27 lbs for the Irish Terrier.
  • The Irish Terrier typically lives longer (13–15 years).
  • The Irish Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Irish Terrier sheds less.
  • The Irish Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitIrish TerrierTibetan Mastiff
Group
TerrierWorking
Size
MediumGiant
Origin
IrelandTibet
Height (male)
18"26"
Height (female)
18"24"
Weight (male)
27 lbs90–150 lbs
Weight (female)
25 lbs70–120 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
13–15 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)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.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)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
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Coat length
wirehairedlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
Ad slot · compare-mid

About the Irish Terrier

The Irish Terrier is a bold, dashing, tenderhearted Irish 'daredevil' — fiery red-coated farm dog and WWI message-runner. Originally from Ireland, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 27 lbs and lives 13–15 years. Breeders describe them as bold, dashing, tenderhearted.

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.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Irish Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hyperkeratosis
  • Eye disorders

Tibetan Mastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Eye disorders