Lhasa Apso vs Mastiff
Non-Sporting · Small vs Working · Giant
Lhasa ApsoSmall
A confident, smart, comical Tibetan monastery sentinel — small but feels like a big dog inside.
Weight: 12–18 lbsLifespan: 12–15 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 12–18 lbs for the Lhasa Apso.
- • The Lhasa Apso typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Lhasa Apso has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Lhasa Apso sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Lhasa Apso | Mastiff |
|---|---|---|
Group | Non-Sporting | Working |
Size | Small | Giant |
Origin | Tibet | England |
Height (male) | 10–11" | 30" |
Height (female) | 10–11" | 27.5" |
Weight (male) | 12–18 lbs | 160–230 lbs |
Weight (female) | 12–18 lbs | 120–170 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 6–10 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very Low (1/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very High (5/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Good with kids | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | long | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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About the Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a confident, smart, comical Tibetan monastery sentinel — small but feels like a big dog inside. Originally from Tibet, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 12–18 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as confident, smart, comical.
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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Lhasa Apso health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Eye disorders
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Skin issues
- • Kidney disease
Mastiff health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Heart disease
- • Cancer