Chesapeake Bay Retriever vs Chow Chow

Sporting · Large vs Non-Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Chesapeake Bay Retriever is the larger breed at 65–80 lbs (males) vs 45–70 lbs for the Chow Chow.
  • The Chesapeake Bay Retriever typically lives longer (10–13 years).
  • The Chesapeake Bay Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Chow Chow sheds less.
  • The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitChesapeake Bay RetrieverChow Chow
Group
SportingNon-Sporting
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
USAChina
Height (male)
23–26"17–20"
Height (female)
21–24"17–20"
Weight (male)
65–80 lbs45–70 lbs
Weight (female)
55–70 lbs45–70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–13 years8–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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.

About the Chow Chow

The Chow Chow is a dignified, bright, serious-minded ancient Chinese breed with a famous purple-blue tongue. Originally from China, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 45–70 lbs and lives 8–12 years. Breeders describe them as dignified, bright, serious-minded.

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Chesapeake Bay Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Bloat

Chow Chow health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Skin issues
  • Bloat