Mastiff vs West Highland White Terrier Comparison. Which dog is better for you: English Mastiff or Westie (or Westy)?

Compare the Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a English Mastiff or a Westie (or Westy)? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

Old English Mastiff, English Mastiff

Westie (or Westy), Poltalloch Terrier, Roseneath Terrier, White Roseneath Terrier

Weight

What is the average weight of Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier?

200.0 pounds ( 91 kg )

18.0 pounds ( 8 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier

33.0 inches ( 83.8 cm )

11.0 inches ( 27.9 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Mastiff or West Highland White Terrier?

Both the Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier breeds have an average to high tendency to gain weight if their weight is not closely monitored. It is important to maintain a balance between exercise and food intake to keep them at a healthy weight. This can be achieved by scheduling at least one daily walk and engaging in regular playtime with them.

Hypoallergenic

Are Mastiffs or West Highland White Terriers hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, the Mastiff is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Yes

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, West Highland White Terriers are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier dogs?

Affectionate
Cheerful
Intelligent
Protective
Alert
Courageous
Loyal

Affectionate
Courageous
Friendly
Independent
Alert
Intelligent

Shedding Level

Do Mastiffs shed more than West Highland White Terriers, or which breed sheds more, Mastiffs or West Highland White Terriers?

Mastiffs are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

West Highland White Terriers shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Mastiff or West Highland White Terrier?

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.

West Highland White Terriers are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Origin

What is the origin of Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier dog breeds?

England

Scotland

Ancestry

What are the origins of Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier breeds?

Molosser-type Dogs

scottish, skye, dandie dinmont, and cairn terriers

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier?

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

Date of Birth

When were Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier breeds first developed?

1800s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier?

Working (AKC:1885)
Guardian Dog (UKC)

Terrier (AKC:1908)(UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier dogs?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier?

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier breeds?

Cream
Fawn
Brindle

White

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier breeds?

Mastiffs have short coats.

West Highland White Terriers have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier?

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.

12-16 puppies per pregnancy

A West Highland White Terrier can have a litter of 12-16 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.

West Highland White Terriers are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier, 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 West Highland White Terrier 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 West Highland White Terrier breeds?

Gastric Torsion
Hip Dysplasia

Inguinal Hernias
Copper Toxicosis
Addison's Disease
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier?

Entropion
Ectropion
Elbow Dysplasia
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Retinal Dysplasia
Hypothyroidism

Craniomandibular Osteopathy

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier breeds?

Eye
Hip
Elbow
Thyroid Tests
X-Rays
Eye Examination

Hip
Knee
Blood Test
X-Rays
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Mastiffs and West Highland White Terriers compare?

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

West Highland White Terriers' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Social Needs

Mastiff vs West Highland White Terrier social needs comparison

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

West Highland White Terrier has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Mastiff vs West Highland White Terrier exercise need comparison.

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

West Highland White Terriers require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Mastiff or West Highland White Terrier?

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

West Highland White Terriers sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Mastiff or West Highland White Terrier?

Mastiff excessively drools, consider a different breed if not appealing.

West Highland White Terrier minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Mastiffs or West Highland White Terriers bark more/less frequently?

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

West Highland White Terrier dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.

Territorial

Is the Mastiff or West Highland White Terrier a better guard dog?

These breeds are known for being extremely protective and make excellent guard dogs. They possess a strong instinct to defend their territory and owners and have a high level of vigilance and alertness.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Mastiff vs West Highland White Terrier?

Roaming urge

Mastiff vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Mastiff or West Highland White Terrier - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier entertained?

Snuggling, Sleeping, Eating, Eating Snacks, Walk, Catch treats, Nap, Walking, Tug-of-war, People petts, Chase, Fetch, Running

Belly rubs, Walking, Petting, Playing, Nap, Walk, Play, Run, Walking slow, Daily walks, River rafting, Camping, Hike

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Mastiffs or West Highland White Terriers?

Medium

Both Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier 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 West Highland White Terrier 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.

6 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For West Highland White Terrier, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Mastiffs or West Highland White Terriers 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.

30 minutes

In general most West Highland White Terriers usually need at least 30 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 West Highland White Terriers?

The Mastiff has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

West Highland White Terriers require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier dogs?

Weekly

Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier 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 West Highland White Terriers?

Pin Brush
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Mastiff or West Highland White Terrier 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.

1.8 cups

For an average 15-21 pound (7 - 10 kg) West Highland White Terrier feed 1.8 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 West Highland White Terrier?

$8.40 - $9.10 / day

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

$1.40 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a West Highland White Terrier is somewhere $1.40 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Mastiff or West Highland White Terrier?

$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.

$35 - $42 / month

The average per month expenses of a West Highland White Terrier is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 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 West Highland White Terriers

Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier 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 West Highland White Terrier 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 West Highland White Terrier?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Mastiff or West Highland White Terrier?

Mastiffs and West Highland White Terriers are dogs that do well in apartments with sufficient exercise, but they would really appreciate a small yard.

Child Friendly

Do Mastiffs or West Highland White Terriers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

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

West Highland White Terriers 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 West Highland White Terrier?

Cat Friendly

Do Mastiff or West Highland White Terrier breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

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

West Highland White Terriers 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 West Highland White Terrier?

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

West Highland White Terriers 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 West Highland White Terrier dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Mastiff or West Highland White Terrier?

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

West Highland White Terriers are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Mastiff and West Highland White Terrier?

Mastiffs are not known for being a highly playful breed.

West Highland White Terriers 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 Mastiffs and West Highland White Terriers compare?

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

West Highland White Terriers are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.