Great Dane
giant breedMastiff
giant breedGreat Dane vs Mastiff
The tallest dog in the world meets the heaviest. Great Danes look down on everyone with aristocratic poise. Mastiffs outweigh everyone with a calm, immovable confidence. Both are gentle giants who think they are lap dogs — your couch will never be the same.
At a Glance
Key Differences
1Size Profile
Great Danes are taller (28-32 inches, 110-175 lbs). Mastiffs are heavier (120-230 lbs, 27-30 inches). Danes are elegant; Mastiffs are massive.
2Energy
Great Danes have moderate energy and enjoy daily walks and play. Mastiffs are quintessential couch potatoes — 30 minutes of ambling suffices.
3Guarding
Mastiffs are natural guardians — their presence alone deters intruders. Great Danes look imposing but are often friendly with strangers.
4Food Cost
Mastiffs eat 6-10 cups daily ($150-250/month). Great Danes eat 6-8 cups ($120-200/month). Both will strain your food budget.
Health Comparison
Great Dane Health Concerns
- ⚠Hip Dysplasia
- ⚠Wobblers Syndrome
- ⚠Cardiomyopathy
- ⚠Bloat
Mastiff Health Concerns
- ⚠Hip Dysplasia
- ⚠Bloat
- ⚠Heart Disease
- ⚠Elbow Dysplasia
Temperament
Great Dane
Mastiff
🏆 Our Verdict
Choose a Great Dane if you want a tall, elegant giant who is surprisingly gentle and adapts well to indoor living. Choose a Mastiff if you want a massive, calm guardian who is content with minimal exercise and maximum napping.
Choose Great Dane if...
People wanting the tallest breed without extreme heaviness. Owners who prefer a more active giant breed. Those who want a slightly less drooly giant.
Learn more about Great Dane →Choose Mastiff if...
People wanting maximum size and imposing presence. Owners preferring an extremely calm, low-energy companion. Those who want a natural guardian without training.
Learn more about Mastiff →