Alaskan Malamute vs Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Working · Large vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Alaskan Malamute is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 65–80 lbs for the Chesapeake Bay Retriever.
  • The Alaskan Malamute typically lives longer (10–14 years).
  • The Chesapeake Bay Retriever sheds less.
  • The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAlaskan MalamuteChesapeake Bay Retriever
Group
WorkingSporting
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
USAUSA
Height (male)
25"23–26"
Height (female)
23"21–24"
Weight (male)
85 lbs65–80 lbs
Weight (female)
75 lbs55–70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years10–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute is an affectionate, loyal, playful arctic freight dog — bigger and stronger than the Husky, equally fluffy. Originally from USA, this large working breed typically weighs 85 lbs and lives 10–14 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, loyal, playful.

About the Chesapeake Bay Retriever

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a bright, sensitive, affectionate water retriever from Maryland — tough enough for icy bay waters. Originally from USA, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–80 lbs and lives 10–13 years. Breeders describe them as bright, sensitive, affectionate.

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Alaskan Malamute health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Bloat

Chesapeake Bay Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Bloat