Labrador Retriever vs Mastiff

Sporting · Large vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Mastiff is the larger breed at 160–230 lbs (males) vs 65–80 lbs for the Labrador Retriever.
  • The Labrador Retriever typically lives longer (11–13 years).
  • The Labrador Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Mastiff sheds less.
  • The Labrador Retriever is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitLabrador RetrieverMastiff
Group
SportingWorking
Size
LargeGiant
Origin
CanadaEngland
Height (male)
22.5–24.5"30"
Height (female)
21.5–23.5"27.5"
Weight (male)
65–80 lbs160–230 lbs
Weight (female)
55–70 lbs120–170 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–13 years6–10 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)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.
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.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever is america's most popular dog — a friendly, outgoing, athletic retriever bred to fetch waterfowl. Originally from Canada, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–80 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, active, outgoing, even-tempered.

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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Labrador Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Obesity
  • Progressive retinal atrophy

Mastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer