Breed matchup

Labrador Retriever vs English Mastiff

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

Labrador Retriever

English Mastiff

Labrador Retriever

large · Canada

English Mastiff

large · England

Head-to-head

Labrador Retriever vs English Mastiff

Derived comparison from breed profiles: Labrador Retriever runs very high energy vs English Mastiff's moderate. Kids compatibility is close (5/5 each). Labrador Retriever sheds more (4/5). America's most popular dog breed. The English Mastiff is a wonderful dog breed known for its unique characteristics and loyal companionship.

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

large vs large

Energy 5 vs 3

short vs short

10-12 years · 10-14 years

Biggest differences

Weight

55-80 lbs

20-50 lbs

Height

21-24 inches

15-20 inches

Lifespan

10-12 years

10-14 years

Monthly cost*

$80–$150

$90–$170

*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.

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

English Mastiff

The English Mastiff is a wonderful dog breed known for its unique characteristics and loyal companionship. Overall, English Mastiffs are described as friendly, loyal, intelligent. Trainability sits around 5/5 and bark tendency around 3/5, so consistent positive training usually pays off quickly.

Friendly

Loyal

Intelligent

Care side by side

Grooming, exercise, and training at a glance.

Labrador Retriever

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

English Mastiff

Daily walks and playtime needed.

Who should choose which?

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

Choose Labrador Retriever

Choose a Labrador Retriever if you want a large dog with very high energy, kids fit excellent, and apartment fit limited. Temperament leans outgoing and even-tempered.

Choose English Mastiff

Choose a English Mastiff if you prefer large size, moderate energy, kids fit excellent, and apartment fit poor. Traits include friendly and loyal.

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 Labrador Retriever and a English Mastiff?

Which is better for apartments, Labrador Retriever or English Mastiff?

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

Which is better with kids, Labrador Retriever or English Mastiff?

Both rate 5/5 with children when supervised and socialized.

How do Labrador Retriever and English Mastiff compare on energy?

Labrador Retriever: 5/5 (very high). English Mastiff: 3/5 (moderate). 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.