Breed matchup

Bullmastiff vs Labrador Retriever

Interactive head-to-head—swap sides, filter traits, and see who edges each lifestyle score before you read the full guides.

Bullmastiff

Labrador Retriever

Bullmastiff

large · England

Labrador Retriever

large · Canada

Head-to-head

Bullmastiff vs Labrador Retriever

Derived comparison from breed profiles: Bullmastiff runs moderate energy vs Labrador Retriever's very high. Labrador Retriever scores higher with kids (5/5 vs 2/5). Labrador Retriever sheds more (4/5). Large English guard dog with gentle nature. America's most popular dog breed.

Derived from breed profile scores—not a substitute for meeting dogs or consulting professionals.

large vs large

Energy 3 vs 5

short vs short

8-10 years · 10-12 years

Biggest differences

Weight

100-130 lbs

55-80 lbs

Height

24-27 inches

21-24 inches

Lifespan

8-10 years

10-12 years

Monthly cost*

$90–$170

$80–$150

*Typical ownership cost band estimate—not a quote.

Lifestyle scores

Tap a trait for context. Filter by what matters most to you.

Temperament

Typical breed leanings—individuals vary.

Bullmastiff

Large English guard dog with gentle nature. Overall, Bullmastiffs are described as gentle, loyal, protective, calm. Trainability sits around 3/5 and bark tendency around 2/5, so patience and clear boundaries matter more than force.

Gentle

Loyal

Protective

Calm

Labrador Retriever

America's most popular dog breed. Overall, Labrador Retrievers are described as outgoing, even-tempered, gentle, agile. Trainability sits around 5/5 and bark tendency around 2/5, so consistent positive training usually pays off quickly.

Outgoing

Even-tempered

Gentle

Agile

Care side by side

Grooming, exercise, and training at a glance.

Bullmastiff

Moderate exercise needs. Enjoys walks and gentle play.

Labrador Retriever

Highly energetic breed requiring 1-2 hours of vigorous exercise daily.

Who should choose which?

Use this as a shortlist—then meet dogs and read full guides.

Choose Bullmastiff

Choose a Bullmastiff if you want a large dog with moderate energy, kids fit limited, and apartment fit poor. Temperament leans gentle and loyal.

Choose Labrador Retriever

Choose a Labrador Retriever if you prefer large size, very high energy, kids fit excellent, and apartment fit limited. Traits include outgoing and even-tempered.

Still deciding?

Take the lifestyle match quiz or open both breed guides for first-year costs, health screening, and adopter questions.

FAQs

What is the difference between a Bullmastiff and a Labrador Retriever?

Which is better for apartments, Bullmastiff or Labrador Retriever?

Labrador Retriever is the stronger apartment candidate (2/5).

Which is better with kids, Bullmastiff or Labrador Retriever?

Labrador Retriever scores higher with kids (5/5). Supervision still matters.

How do Bullmastiff and Labrador Retriever compare on energy?

Bullmastiff: 3/5 (moderate). Labrador Retriever: 5/5 (very high). Match the higher-energy breed only if you can meet exercise needs daily.

References

This comparison summarizes publicly available breed-standard and veterinary education sources. Always consult your veterinarian for individual care, and meet dogs in person before deciding.