Irish Mastiff vs Huntaway Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Irish Mastiff or NZ Huntaway?

Compare the Irish Mastiff and Huntaway breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Irish Mastiff or a NZ Huntaway? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

New Zealand Sheepdog, New Zealand Huntaway, NZ Huntaway

Weight

What is the average weight of Irish Mastiff and Huntaway?

20.5 pounds ( 9 kg )

77.0 pounds ( 35 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Irish Mastiff and Huntaway

15.0 inches ( 38.1 cm )

25.0 inches ( 63.5 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Irish Mastiffs or Huntaways hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Irish Mastiff nor Huntaway are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Irish Mastiff and Huntaway dogs?

Dignified
Protective
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Affectionate
Patient
Loyal
Tempered
Sweet
Cheerful
Generous
Thoughtful

Friendly
Energetic
Active
Intelligent
Trainable
Vocal

Shedding Level

Do Irish Mastiffs shed more than Huntaways, or which breed sheds more, Irish Mastiffs or Huntaways?

Irish Mastiff or Huntaway dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Irish Mastiff or Huntaway. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Irish Mastiff or Huntaway?

Irish Mastiffs make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Huntaways aren't great guard dogs; they tend to just watch without taking action.

Origin

What is the origin of Irish Mastiff and Huntaway dog breeds?

United States

New Zealand

Ancestry

What are the origins of Irish Mastiff and Huntaway breeds?

Mastiff and Irish Wolfhound

Collies, English Hound, Old English Sheepdogs, Labrador

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Irish Mastiff and Huntaway?

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DDKC = Designer Dogs Kennel Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

Dog Registry of America Inc.
New Zealand Kennel Club

Date of Birth

When were Irish Mastiff and Huntaway breeds first developed?

Unknown

1900's

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Irish Mastiff and Huntaway dogs?

Brown

Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Irish Mastiff and Huntaway?

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Irish Mastiff and Huntaway breeds?

Black
Blue
Brindle
Cream
Gray
Red
Silver

Pied
Black
Brown

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Irish Mastiff and Huntaway breeds?

Irish Mastiffs have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Huntaways have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Irish Mastiff and Huntaway?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Irish Mastiff and Huntaway?

Wiry

Wavy

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Irish Mastiff and Huntaway?

3-5 puppies per pregnancy

An Irish Mastiff can have a litter of 3-5 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

12-14 puppies per pregnancy

A Huntaway can have a litter of 12-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Irish Mastiffs are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Huntaways are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Irish Mastiff and Huntaway, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Irish Mastiff and Huntaway breeds are very healthy, with little need for frequent vet visits. However, it's important to keep an eye on their health and have them checked by a veterinarian when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Irish Mastiff and Huntaway breeds?

Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
Bloat
Heart Conditions

Bone Cancer

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Irish Mastiff and Huntaway?

Osteosarcoma
Wobbler's Syndrome
Eye Diseases and Disorders

Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
Ear Health and Infection

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Irish Mastiff and Huntaway breeds?

Eye Examination
Biopsy
X-ray imaging
Electrocardiogram

Full Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Irish Mastiffs and Huntaways compare?

Irish Mastiffs are a good choice for a low-key lifestyle due to their low energy levels.

Huntaways thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Social Needs

Irish Mastiff vs Huntaway social needs comparison

Irish Mastiff has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Huntaway has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Irish Mastiff vs Huntaway exercise need comparison.

Irish Mastiffs require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Huntaways need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Irish Mastiff or Huntaway?

Irish Mastiffs are known for their relaxed and calm nature and enjoy long periods of sleep.

Huntaways are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Tendency to Bark

Do Irish Mastiffs or Huntaways bark more/less frequently?

Irish Mastiff dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

Huntaway dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Irish Mastiff vs Huntaway?

Roaming urge

Irish Mastiff vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Irish Mastiff or Huntaway - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Irish Mastiff and Huntaway entertained?

Playdate, Tracking, Tug-of-war, Fetch, Swim, Run, Walks, Lure coursing, Hikes, Swimming

Training, Sea paddling, Long walks, Dancing, Playing, Chase, Playing Ball, Walk, Name te, Cuddles, Scentwork, Walking, Hoopers, Fetch, Hiking, Puzzles, Running, Run, Catch-ball, Tug-of-war, Football, Go on Vacation, Road trip, Play, Nap, High Five, Bath time, Off-leash, Car rides

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Irish Mastiffs or Huntaways?

Medium

Irish Mastiffs are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

High

Huntaways are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Irish Mastiff or Huntaway walk each week?

8 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Irish Mastiff, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

14 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Huntaway, it's at least 14 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Irish Mastiffs or Huntaways require more exercise?

60 minutes

In general most Irish Mastiffs usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

80 minutes

In general most Huntaways usually need at least 80 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Irish Mastiffs or Huntaways?

Irish Mastiff and Huntaway are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Irish Mastiff and Huntaway dogs?

Daily

Ideally, Irish Mastiff should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Weekly

Huntaway should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Irish Mastiffs and Huntaways?

Slicker Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Irish Mastiff or Huntaway in cups?

4 cups

For an average 120-180 pound (54 - 82 kg) Irish Mastiff feed 4 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

3 cups

For an average 65-88 pound (29 - 40 kg) Huntaway feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Irish Mastiff or Huntaway?

$3.90 - $4.20 / day

The average cost of an Irish Mastiff is somewhere $3.90 - $4.20 per day.

$2.10 - $2.70 / day

The average cost of a Huntaway is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Irish Mastiff or Huntaway?

$112 - $126 / month

The average per month expenses of an Irish Mastiff is between $112 - $126. This makes an average of $1344 - $1512 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$55 - $73 / month

The average per month expenses of a Huntaway is between $55 - $73. This makes an average of $660 - $876 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Irish Mastiffs vs Huntaways

Irish Mastiff has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

Huntaway is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Sensitivity Level

How do Irish Mastiff and Huntaway compare in sensitivity?

Irish Mastiffs have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Irish Mastiff vs Huntaway?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Irish Mastiff or Huntaway?

Irish Mastiffs are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Huntaways can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

Child Friendly

Do Irish Mastiffs or Huntaways have a friendlier temperament towards children?

The typical characteristics of Irish Mastiff and Huntaway indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes them family pets. Their gentle and protective nature and calm mentality make them gel along quickly with the younger humans.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Irish Mastiff or Huntaway?

Cat Friendly

Do Irish Mastiff or Huntaway breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Irish Mastiffs are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Huntaways are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Irish Mastiff or Huntaway?

Irish Mastiffs and Huntaways are friendly, active and loyal companions. They generally love to be around other dogs, making them a good family pet for some.

Pet friendly

How do Irish Mastiff or Huntaway dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Irish Mastiff or Huntaway?

Irish Mastiffs are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Huntaways are highly friendly around strangers.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Irish Mastiff and Huntaway?

Irish Mastiffs have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Huntaways are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Irish Mastiffs and Huntaways compare?

Irish Mastiffs are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

Huntaways are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.