Irish Water Spaniel vs Mastiff
Sporting · Large vs Working · Giant
Irish Water SpanielLarge
A playful, hardworking, brave water retriever — Ireland's sporting clown with a famous rat-tail.
Weight: 55–68 lbsLifespan: 12–13 years
MastiffGiant
A courageous, dignified, good-natured giant — one of the most ancient breeds, formerly war dogs.
Weight: 160–230 lbsLifespan: 6–10 years
Quick take
- • Mastiff is the larger breed at 160–230 lbs (males) vs 55–68 lbs for the Irish Water Spaniel.
- • The Irish Water Spaniel typically lives longer (12–13 years).
- • The Irish Water Spaniel has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Irish Water Spaniel sheds less.
- • The Irish Water Spaniel is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Irish Water Spaniel | Mastiff |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Working |
Size | Large | Giant |
Origin | Ireland | England |
Height (male) | 22–24" | 30" |
Height (female) | 21–23" | 27.5" |
Weight (male) | 55–68 lbs | 160–230 lbs |
Weight (female) | 45–58 lbs | 120–170 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–13 years | 6–10 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | High (4/5) | 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. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | long | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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About the Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is a playful, hardworking, brave water retriever — Ireland's sporting clown with a famous rat-tail. Originally from Ireland, this large sporting breed typically weighs 55–68 lbs and lives 12–13 years. Breeders describe them as playful, hardworking, brave.
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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Irish Water Spaniel health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Hypothyroidism
Mastiff health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Heart disease
- • Cancer