Labrador Retriever vs Mastiff
Breed Compatibility
39% Compatible
Energy Level
Labrador Retriever: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Mastiff: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Labrador Retriever: Eager to Please1.0
Mastiff: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Labrador Retriever: Weekly Brushing0.4
Mastiff: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Labrador Retriever5/5
Mastiff/5
Good with Other Dogs
Labrador Retriever5/5
Mastiff/5
Good with Strangers
Labrador Retriever5/5
Mastiff/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Labrador Retriever
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
PRA: Progressive eye deterioration
Exercise-Induced Collapse: Activity limit
Bloat: Digestive emergency risk
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Mastiff
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Bloat: Gastric torsion condition
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Eye Problems: Various optical issues
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Cancer: Various types common in breed
Pros & Cons Comparison
Labrador Retriever
Pros
Excellent family dog
Highly trainable
Great with children
Versatile working ability
Cons
Heavy shedding
High exercise needs
Prone to weight gain
Chewing tendency in puppyhood
Mastiff
Pros
Gentle and patient nature
Excellent guard dog
Good with family
Low grooming needs
Cons
Heavy drooling
Shorter lifespan
Requires significant space
High food costs
Labrador Retriever Fun Fact
Labrador Retrievers have a special gene that makes them obsessed with food, contributing to their trainability!
Mastiff Fun Fact
Ancient Mastiffs were so valued in battle that entire units of Roman armies were dedicated to their care.
Heritage & Purpose
Labrador Retriever
Origin:
Developed in Newfoundland during the 1800s, these dogs worked alongside fishermen retrieving nets and fish, later refined in England as sporting and hunting companions.
Mastiff
Origin:
Ancient Roman war dogs evolved into estate guardians across medieval England. These powerful dogs protected estates and served as hunting companions for nobility.
Special Considerations
Labrador Retriever
Regular grooming needed during heavy shedding seasons. Exercise requirements must be met daily. Weight management crucial to prevent obesity-related health issues.
Mastiff
Heat sensitivity requires climate control. Regular monitoring for bloat symptoms essential. Joint support supplements recommended throughout life.
Shedding
RegularlyShedding
OccasionalRelated Comparisons
Same Group
Labrador Retriever vs Boykin Spaniel →Same Group
Labrador Retriever vs Spinone Italiano →Similar Size
Labrador Retriever vs Belgian Tervuren →Similar Size
Labrador Retriever vs Boxer →