Chesapeake Bay Retriever vs Great Pyrenees

Sporting · Large vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Great Pyrenees is the larger breed at 100 lbs (males) vs 65–80 lbs for the Chesapeake Bay Retriever.
  • The Chesapeake Bay Retriever typically lives longer (10–13 years).
  • The Chesapeake Bay Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Chesapeake Bay Retriever sheds less.
  • The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitChesapeake Bay RetrieverGreat Pyrenees
Group
SportingWorking
Size
LargeGiant
Origin
USAFrance
Height (male)
23–26"27–32"
Height (female)
21–24"25–29"
Weight (male)
65–80 lbs100 lbs
Weight (female)
55–70 lbs85 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–13 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
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 Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees is a patient, smart, strong-willed livestock guardian — the snowy giant of the Pyrenees mountains. Originally from France, this giant working breed typically weighs 100 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as patient, smart, strong-willed.

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Chesapeake Bay Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Bloat

Great Pyrenees health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Bone cancer
  • Heart problems