VS

Mastiff vs Irish Dane Comparison. Which dog is better for you: English Mastiff or Irish Dane?

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

Other names

Old English Mastiff, English Mastiff

Weight

What is the average weight of Mastiff and Irish Dane?
200.0 pounds ( 91 kg )
35.0 pounds ( 16 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Mastiff and Irish Dane
33.0 inches ( 83.8 cm )
16.5 inches ( 41.9 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Mastiffs or Irish Danes hypoallergenic, or neither?

No

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

Temperament

What are the personalities of Mastiff and Irish Dane dogs?
Affectionate
Cheerful
Intelligent
Protective
Alert
Courageous
Loyal

Loving
Dignified
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Patient
Loyal
Devoted
Gentle
Tempered
Sweet
Reserved
Generous
Thoughtful

Shedding Level

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

Mastiff or Irish Dane 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 Mastiff or Irish Dane. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.

Watchdog Ability

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

Choose a Mastiff if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.

Irish Danes are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Origin

What is the origin of Mastiff and Irish Dane dog breeds?
England

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Mastiff and Irish Dane breeds?
Molosser-type Dogs

Irish Wolfhound, Great Dane

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Mastiff and Irish Dane?
American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Mastiff and Irish Dane breeds first developed?
1800s

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Mastiff and Irish Dane dogs?
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Mastiff and Irish Dane?
Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Mastiff and Irish Dane breeds?
Cream
Fawn
Brindle

Brindle
Sable
Cream
Red
Gray
Silver
Fawn
Blue
White
Black

Coat Length

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

Mastiffs have short coats.

Irish Danes have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

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

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Mastiff and Irish Dane?
Straight

Litter Size

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

10-12 puppies per pregnancy

A Mastiff can have a litter of 10-12 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.

10-15 puppies per pregnancy

An Irish Dane can have a litter of 10-15 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

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

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

Health Issues

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

Mastiffs typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

The Irish Dane breed is generally very healthy, requiring minimal vet visits. Still, it's important to keep an eye on their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Mastiff and Irish Dane breeds?
Gastric Torsion
Hip Dysplasia

Entropion
Gastric Torsion
Cardiomyopathy
Canine Hip Dysplasia

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Mastiff and Irish Dane?
Entropion
Ectropion
Elbow Dysplasia
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Retinal Dysplasia
Hypothyroidism

Osteosarcoma
Myotonia

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Mastiff and Irish Dane breeds?
Eye
Hip
Elbow
Thyroid Tests
X-Rays
Eye Examination

Radiographs
Internal Imaging (x-ray, CT scan, MRI, etc.)
Blood And Urine Analysis
Orthopedic Exam
Ocular Exam
Cardiac Test
Electromyography (EMG)
Muscle Biopsy
Blood Panel
Bone Biopsy

Energy

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

Mastiff and Irish Dane breeds may be a good choice for those who prefer a more relaxed lifestyle. They tend to have a lower energy level than other breeds of dogs.

Social Needs

Mastiff vs Irish Dane social needs comparison

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

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

Exercise Needed

Mastiff vs Irish Dane exercise need comparison.

Mastiffs need only a small amount of physical activity, ideal for busy or elderly people or those with limited space.

Irish Danes 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: Mastiff or Irish Dane?

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

Irish Danes have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Tendency to Bark

Do Mastiffs or Irish Danes bark more/less frequently?

Mastiffs are typically quiet and only bark when needed, such as to alert their owner or when in distress.

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

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Mastiff vs Irish Dane?

Roaming urge

Mastiff vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

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

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Mastiffs or Irish Danes?

Medium

Both Mastiff and Irish Dane are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

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

15 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Mastiff, it's at least 15 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

9 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Irish Dane, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Mastiffs or Irish Danes require more exercise?

60 minutes

In general most 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.

90 minutes

In general most Irish Danes usually need at least 90 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, Mastiffs or Irish Danes?

Mastiff and Irish Dane are breeds of dogs that are known for their low grooming needs.

Brushing Frequency

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

Weekly

Mastiff and Irish Dane 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 Mastiffs and Irish Danes?
Pin Brush
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

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

8.5 cups

For an average 170-230 pound (77 - 104 kg) Mastiff feed 8.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

4 cups

For an average 120-150 pound (54 - 68 kg) Irish Dane 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.

Daily Cost

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

$8.40 - $9.10 / day

The average cost of a Mastiff is somewhere $8.40 - $9.10 per day.

$3.90 - $4.20 / day

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

Monthly Cost

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

$252 - $273 / month

The average per month expenses of a Mastiff is between $252 - $273. This makes an average of $3024 - $3276 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.

$112 - $126 / month

The average per month expenses of an Irish Dane 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.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Mastiffs vs Irish Danes

Mastiff and Irish Dane have average obedience intelligence, but they're also independent thinkers. This breed is known for having an exceptionally high IQ, which means they may get into trouble if left to their own devices.

Sensitivity Level

How do Mastiff and Irish Dane compare in sensitivity?

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: Mastiff vs Irish Dane?

Apartment Friendly

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

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

The Irish Dane is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Child Friendly

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

Mastiffs make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Irish Danes are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Senior-friendly

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

Cat Friendly

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

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

Irish Danes are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Dog Friendly

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

Mastiffs are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Irish Danes are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Pet friendly

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

Stranger Friendly

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

Mastiff and Irish Dane are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish, so early socialization is key to ensure they are comfortable around new people.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Mastiff and Irish Dane?

Mastiffs are not known for being a highly playful breed.

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

Trainability

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

Mastiff and Irish Dane dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.

Common match-ups