Boston Terrier vs Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Non-Sporting · Small vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Chesapeake Bay Retriever is the larger breed at 65–80 lbs (males) vs 12–25 lbs for the Boston Terrier.
  • The Boston Terrier typically lives longer (11–13 years).
  • The Chesapeake Bay Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Boston Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBoston TerrierChesapeake Bay Retriever
Group
Non-SportingSporting
Size
SmallLarge
Origin
USAUSA
Height (male)
15–17"23–26"
Height (female)
15–17"21–24"
Weight (male)
12–25 lbs65–80 lbs
Weight (female)
12–25 lbs55–70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–13 years10–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)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
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier is a friendly, bright, amusing 'American Gentleman' in a tuxedo coat — born in Boston, the original AKC breed. Originally from USA, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 12–25 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, bright, amusing.

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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Boston Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Eye problems
  • Patellar luxation
  • Allergies

Chesapeake Bay Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Bloat