Chesapeake Bay Retriever
A tough American retriever with an oily, wavy coat, the Chesapeake is brave, loyal and tireless in cold water.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever vs Labrador Retriever
Side by side
| Trait | Chesapeake Bay Retriever | Labrador Retriever |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Retrievers, flushing dogs and water dogs | Retrievers, flushing dogs and water dogs |
| Size | Large | Large |
| Weight | 25–37 kg | 25–36 kg |
| Height at withers | 53–66 cm | 54–57 cm |
| Life expectancy | 10–13 years | 10–12 years |
| Energy | ||
| With children | ||
| With other dogs | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Heat tolerance | ||
| Apartment | Not recommended | Not recommended |
Key differences
- Better with other dogs: Labrador Retriever (5/5 vs 3/5)
Gaps counted as key differences: more than 20% in average weight, more than 10% in average height, at least 2 years in average life expectancy, or at least 2 points on a rating.
Which one is right for you?
A quick guide based on the ratings above. Every dog is an individual: spend time with the breed and talk to breeders, rescue organisations or a veterinarian before deciding.
- Apartment living
- Both are similarBased on apartment suitability and energy.
- Family with children
- Labrador Retriever is the better fitBased on behaviour with children.
- First-time owner
- Both are similarBased on trainability, energy and grooming needs.
- Hot climate
- Both are similarBased on heat tolerance.
- Active owner
- Both are similarBased on energy level.
Meet the two breeds
Labrador Retriever
Sociable, cheerful and easy to train, the Labrador is the quintessential family dog; it needs exercise and a carefully watched diet.