Welsh Sheepdog vs. Irish Mastiff: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Welsh Sheepdogs or Irish Mastiffs hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Welsh Sheepdog nor Irish Mastiff are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Welsh Sheepdog and Irish Mastiff dogs?

Active
Intelligent
Energetic

Dignified
Protective
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Affectionate
Patient
Loyal
Tempered
Sweet
Cheerful
Generous
Thoughtful

Shedding Level

Do Welsh Sheepdogs shed more than Irish Mastiffs, or which breed sheds more, Welsh Sheepdogs or Irish Mastiffs?

3 / 5

Welsh Sheepdog or Irish Mastiff dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Welsh Sheepdog or Irish Mastiff. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Welsh Sheepdog or Irish Mastiff?

2 / 5

Welsh Sheepdogs aren't great guard dogs; they tend to just watch without taking action.

4 / 5

Irish Mastiffs make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Welsh Sheepdog and Irish Mastiff breeds?

Old Welsh Grey, Black and Tan Sheepdog, Sable or Blue Merle Hillman

Mastiff and Irish Wolfhound

Date of Birth

When were Welsh Sheepdog and Irish Mastiff breeds first developed?

18th Century

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Welsh Sheepdog and Irish Mastiff dogs?

Blue
Brown
Amber

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Welsh Sheepdog and Irish Mastiff?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Welsh Sheepdog and Irish Mastiff breeds?

White
Blue
Red
Pied
Black

Black
Blue
Brindle
Cream
Gray
Red
Silver

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Welsh Sheepdog and Irish Mastiff breeds?

3 / 5

Welsh Sheepdogs have medium-length coats.

2 / 5

Irish Mastiffs have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Welsh Sheepdog and Irish Mastiff?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Welsh Sheepdog and Irish Mastiff?

Straight

Wiry

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Welsh Sheepdog and Irish Mastiff?

A Welsh Sheepdog can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

An Irish Mastiff can have a litter of 3-5 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

4 / 5

Welsh Sheepdogs are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

5 / 5

Irish Mastiffs are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Welsh Sheepdog and Irish Mastiff, which breed is more prone to health problems?

2 / 5

Welsh Sheepdogs are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

5 / 5

The Irish Mastiff breed is generally very healthy, requiring minimal vet visits. Still, it's important to keep an eye on their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Welsh Sheepdog and Irish Mastiff breeds?

Hip And Elbow Dysplasia

Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
Bloat
Heart Conditions

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Welsh Sheepdog and Irish Mastiff?

Ear Infections
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Osteosarcoma
Wobbler's Syndrome
Eye Diseases and Disorders

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Welsh Sheepdog and Irish Mastiff breeds?

Ear Examination
Regular Full Physical Examination By Veterinarian
Ophthalmological Examination
Eye Examinations (both internal as well as external)
Hip and Elbow X-rays

Eye Examination
Biopsy
X-ray imaging
Electrocardiogram

Energy

How do the energy levels of Welsh Sheepdogs and Irish Mastiffs compare?

4 / 5

Welsh Sheepdogs' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

2 / 5

Irish Mastiffs are a good choice for a low-key lifestyle due to their low energy levels.

Social Needs

Welsh Sheepdog vs Irish Mastiff social needs comparison

4 / 5

Welsh Sheepdog has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

3 / 5

Irish Mastiff has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Exercise Needed

Welsh Sheepdog vs Irish Mastiff exercise need comparison.

4 / 5

The Welsh Sheepdog and Irish Mastiff breeds need significant physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are well-suited for those who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy activities such as running, hiking, or other outdoor pursuits.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Welsh Sheepdog or Irish Mastiff?

2 / 5

Welsh Sheepdogs sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

4 / 5

Irish Mastiffs are known for their relaxed and calm nature and enjoy long periods of sleep.

Tendency to Bark

Do Welsh Sheepdogs or Irish Mastiffs bark more/less frequently?

3 / 5

Welsh Sheepdogs bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

2 / 5

Irish Mastiff dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Welsh Sheepdog vs Irish Mastiff?

2 / 5

4 / 5

Roaming urge

Welsh Sheepdog vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

4 / 5

2 / 5

Prey Drive

Welsh Sheepdog or Irish Mastiff - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Welsh Sheepdog and Irish Mastiff entertained?

Chasing balls, Walkies, Fetch, Playing, Hike, Run, Cuddle, Playdate, Walk, Tug-of-war, Off-leash, Dog Parks, Yoga, Long walks, Scent Games, Running, Horse riding, Tricks, Swimming

Playdate, Tracking, Tug-of-war, Fetch, Swim, Run, Walks, Lure coursing, Hikes, Swimming

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Welsh Sheepdogs or Irish Mastiffs?

Welsh Sheepdogs are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Irish Mastiffs are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

2 / 5

3 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Welsh Sheepdog or Irish Mastiff walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Welsh Sheepdog, it's at least 16 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Irish Mastiff, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Welsh Sheepdogs or Irish Mastiffs require more exercise?

In general most Welsh Sheepdogs usually need at least 120 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Irish Mastiffs usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Welsh Sheepdogs or Irish Mastiffs?

1 / 5

The Welsh Sheepdog is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

3 / 5

The Irish Mastiff requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Welsh Sheepdog and Irish Mastiff dogs?

In general Welsh Sheepdog should be brushed at least once a month. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes, especially if they enjoyed it

Ideally, Irish Mastiff should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Welsh Sheepdogs and Irish Mastiffs?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Welsh Sheepdog or Irish Mastiff in cups?

For an average 30-45 pound (14 - 20 kg) Welsh Sheepdog feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 120-180 pound (54 - 82 kg) Irish Mastiff feed 4 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Welsh Sheepdog or Irish Mastiff?

The average cost of a Welsh Sheepdog is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

The average cost of an Irish Mastiff is somewhere $3.90 - $4.20 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Welsh Sheepdog or Irish Mastiff?

The average per month expenses of a Welsh Sheepdog is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of an Irish Mastiff is between $112 - $126. This makes an average of $1344 - $1512 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Welsh Sheepdogs vs Irish Mastiffs

4 / 5

Welsh Sheepdog is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

2 / 5

Irish Mastiff has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How do Welsh Sheepdog and Irish Mastiff compare in sensitivity?

2 / 5

Welsh Sheepdogs are adaptable and resilient, making them ideal for those seeking a less sensitive pet.

3 / 5

Irish Mastiffs have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Welsh Sheepdog vs Irish Mastiff?

4 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Welsh Sheepdog or Irish Mastiff?

3 / 5

Welsh Sheepdogs and Irish Mastiffs are dogs that do well in apartments with sufficient exercise, but they would really appreciate a small yard.

Child Friendly

Do Welsh Sheepdogs or Irish Mastiffs have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Welsh Sheepdogs are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

5 / 5

Irish Mastiffs make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Welsh Sheepdog or Irish Mastiff?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Welsh Sheepdog or Irish Mastiff breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

3 / 5

Welsh Sheepdogs are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

4 / 5

Irish Mastiffs are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Welsh Sheepdog or Irish Mastiff?

4 / 5

Welsh Sheepdogs and Irish Mastiffs are friendly, active and loyal companions. They generally love to be around other dogs, making them a good family pet for some.

Pet friendly

How do Welsh Sheepdog or Irish Mastiff dogs interact with other pets?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Welsh Sheepdog or Irish Mastiff?

3 / 5

Welsh Sheepdog and Irish Mastiff are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish, so early socialization is key to ensure they are comfortable around new people.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Welsh Sheepdog and Irish Mastiff?

4 / 5

Welsh Sheepdogs are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

3 / 5

Irish Mastiffs have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Welsh Sheepdogs and Irish Mastiffs compare?

5 / 5

The Welsh Sheepdog is highly intelligent and eager to please, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced dog owners due to its easy trainability.

3 / 5

Irish Mastiffs are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.