Tibetan Mastiff vs. Irish Wolfhound: 4 Key Differences Explained

Are you looking for an independent and intelligent working dog or a calm and courageous hound? There really is no wrong answer!

Both breeds are excellent choices for families, couples, and single households. While Tibetan mastiffs and Irish wolfhounds have a few things in common, they differ in several areas. Knowing their needs and personalities is the best way to make an informed decision about which breed is right for you. Let’s discuss the Tibetan mastiff vs. Irish wolfhound and compare their appearance, size, needs, lifespans, and personalities.

Tibetan Mastiff vs. Irish Wolfhound: A Comparison

The Key Differences Between a Tibetan Mastiff and an Irish Wolfhound

There are four key differences between the Tibetan mastiff and the Irish wolfhound: appearance, size, maintenance, and personality.

One look at these dogs side by side, and you’ll know their most obvious difference is their size. While Tibetan mastiffs weigh more than Irish wolfhounds, the wolfhound is slightly taller. Mastiffs have fluffy tails and lots of hair, and wolfhounds are shaggy and almost scraggly in appearance. And their maintenance requirements differ, as well.

But one of the most important differences between these two breeds is their personality. These dogs make excellent guard dogs, but Irish wolfhounds tend to be a little friendlier than Tibetan mastiffs. Let’s break down their differences further.  

Appearance

Height and Weight

The Tibetan mastiff is a supreme guard dog built to work. This breed is powerful, muscular, and athletic. Their bodies are slightly longer than their tails, and they have a sturdy bone structure with a large head. Males range between 26 and 30 inches tall, while females reach 24 to 28 inches. And they weigh between 70 and 150 pounds, with females weighing 20 to 80 pounds less than males.

Irish wolfhounds are calm and dignified guard dogs known for their ability to take down big game. They are muscular and graceful with a greyhound-like shape and speed. Their deep chests are a notable feature. Males measure an average of 32 inches tall, but they can reach up to 36 inches. And females average 30 inches. Their weight ranges between 105 and 120 pounds, with females weighing about 15 to 20 pounds less than males.      

Coat Type and Colors

Tibetan mastiffs have medium-length double coats, with thick, course topcoats and heavy, wooly undercoats. These dogs can vary in coat colors, ranging from all black, black and tan, various red shades, and bluish gray. Some can also have white markings around their necks, chests, and legs. Because of their double coats and thick hair, Tibetan mastiffs are heavy shedders. But thankfully, they are low-maintenance dogs that only require weekly brushing to remove tangles and dirt. This breed is also a moderate drooler.

Irish wolfhounds also have medium-length double coats, but their undercoats are soft, and their topcoats are harsh and wiry. This breed can come in many colors, including white, gray, red, brindle, black, and fawn. They do not have any markings. These dogs are moderate shedders that require weekly brushing. Unlike Tibetan mastiffs, Irish wolfhounds do not blow their coats, requiring less maintenance and shedding. They are low to moderate droolers. 

Temperament and Social Needs

The Tibetan mastiff is protective, reserved, and intelligent. These dogs are goal-oriented and mean business. However, they can be very affectionate with their owners and close family members. While they can get along well with children, they do best in a home with older kids. And they can be okay around other dogs with the right training. 

They make excellent guard dogs, but they are not open to strangers and can be standoffish and aloof. This breed is mellow and calm at home and will play when the time is right. They have balanced energy needs but need a lot of mental stimulation. Tibetan mastiffs can be challenging to train due to their independent and stubborn attitudes. 

Irish wolfhounds are affectionate, vigilant, and dignified. This breed is lovey-dovey with its family and gets along well with other animals. They can also be great around children, especially older children. While they are protective, Irish wolfhounds are a little more open and friendly to people they don’t know than Tibetan mastiffs. But they have similar playfulness and energy levels. This breed also doesn’t need as much mental stimulation. Irish wolfhounds are moderately challenging to train and should be socialized early. 

Life Expectancy and Health Problems

Tibetan mastiffs live slightly longer than Irish wolfhounds, on average.

Tibetan mastiff average lifespan: 10 to 12 years

Irish wolfhound average lifespan: six to eight years

Tibetan mastiff common health problems: hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, allergies, otitis media, entropion, wobbler disease, seizures, elbow dysplasia, dilated cardiomyopathy 

Irish wolfhound common health problems: hip and elbow dysplasia, cardiomyopathy, osteosarcoma, liver shunt, autoimmune thyroiditis, retinal atrophy, gastric torsion, Von Willebrand’s disease