Breed comparison

Black Russian Terrier vs Tibetan Mastiff

How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.

3Affection with family4
3Good with young children3
3Good with other dogs3
2Openness to strangers1
3Playfulness3
4Energy level3
4Trainability3
4Mental stimulation needs4
4Adaptability3
5Watchdog / protective5
3Barking3
3Shedding4
4Coat grooming3
3Drooling3

The biggest differences

These two breeds are close on every trait: no score differs by more than one point.

They score the same on good with young children, good with other dogs, playfulness, mental stimulation needs, watchdog / protective, barking.

Which one should you choose?

Pick the Black Russian Terrier if you want an energetic exercise partner, you want less dog hair, you want a dog that is easier to train. Pick the Tibetan Mastiff if you prefer a calmer dog.

Ratings are general breed tendencies from the AKC. Every dog is an individual, so meet the dog, and its parents if you can, before you decide. Not sure? Try the breed selector.

Source: American Kennel Club breed ratings (compiled February 2022). How we check.

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