Irish Wolfhound vs Mastiff

Hound · Giant vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Mastiff is the larger breed at 160–230 lbs (males) vs 120 lbs for the Irish Wolfhound.
  • The Mastiff typically lives longer (6–10 years).
  • The Irish Wolfhound has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Irish Wolfhound is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitIrish WolfhoundMastiff
Group
HoundWorking
Size
GiantGiant
Origin
IrelandEngland
Height (male)
32–34"30"
Height (female)
30–32"27.5"
Weight (male)
120 lbs160–230 lbs
Weight (female)
105 lbs120–170 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
6–8 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.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very Low (1/5)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.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
wirehairedshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound is a courageous, dignified, calm gentle giant — the tallest of all dogs, ancient Celtic war and hunting hound. Originally from Ireland, this giant hound breed typically weighs 120 lbs and lives 6–8 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, dignified, calm.

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 Wolfhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bone cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia

Mastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer