Bull Terrier vs Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Terrier · Medium vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Chesapeake Bay Retriever is the larger breed at 65–80 lbs (males) vs 50–70 lbs for the Bull Terrier.
  • The Bull Terrier typically lives longer (12–13 years).
  • The Bull Terrier sheds less.
  • The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBull TerrierChesapeake Bay Retriever
Group
TerrierSporting
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
EnglandUSA
Height (male)
21–22"23–26"
Height (female)
21–22"21–24"
Weight (male)
50–70 lbs65–80 lbs
Weight (female)
50–70 lbs55–70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–13 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.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)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
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Bull Terrier

The Bull Terrier is a playful, charming, mischievous egg-headed gladiator — Spuds MacKenzie, the original Target dog. Originally from England, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 50–70 lbs and lives 12–13 years. Breeders describe them as playful, charming, mischievous.

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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Bull Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Deafness
  • Heart disease
  • Skin issues
  • Kidney problems

Chesapeake Bay Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Bloat