Chesapeake Bay Retriever vs Irish Setter

Sporting · Large vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Chesapeake Bay Retriever is the larger breed at 65–80 lbs (males) vs 70 lbs for the Irish Setter.
  • The Irish Setter typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Irish Setter has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Irish Setter sheds less.
  • The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitChesapeake Bay RetrieverIrish Setter
Group
SportingSporting
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
USAIreland
Height (male)
23–26"27"
Height (female)
21–24"25"
Weight (male)
65–80 lbs70 lbs
Weight (female)
55–70 lbs60 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–13 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
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 Irish Setter

The Irish Setter is an active, outgoing, sweet-tempered gundog with a famous mahogany coat — exuberant and a little goofy. Originally from Ireland, this large sporting breed typically weighs 70 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as active, outgoing, sweet-tempered.

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Chesapeake Bay Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Bloat

Irish Setter health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Epilepsy
  • Eye disorders