Mastiff vs Smooth Fox Terrier

Working · Giant vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Mastiff is the larger breed at 160–230 lbs (males) vs 17–19 lbs for the Smooth Fox Terrier.
  • The Smooth Fox Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Smooth Fox Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Smooth Fox Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitMastiffSmooth Fox Terrier
Group
WorkingTerrier
Size
GiantSmall
Origin
EnglandEngland
Height (male)
30"15"
Height (female)
27.5"15"
Weight (male)
160–230 lbs17–19 lbs
Weight (female)
120–170 lbs15–17 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
6–10 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very High (5/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
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)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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.

About the Smooth Fox Terrier

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a friendly, independent, amusing English fox-bolter — sleek smooth-coated cousin of Wire Fox. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 17–19 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, independent, amusing.

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Mastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer

Smooth Fox Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Deafness