Chesapeake Bay Retriever vs Maltese

Sporting · Large vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Chesapeake Bay Retriever is the larger breed at 65–80 lbs (males) vs 7 lbs for the Maltese.
  • The Maltese typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Chesapeake Bay Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Maltese sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitChesapeake Bay RetrieverMaltese
Group
SportingToy
Size
LargeToy
Origin
USAMalta
Height (male)
23–26"7–9"
Height (female)
21–24"7–9"
Weight (male)
65–80 lbs7 lbs
Weight (female)
55–70 lbs7 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–13 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
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.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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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 Maltese

The Maltese is a gentle, playful, charming aristocrat — ancient Mediterranean lapdog with a flowing snow-white coat. Originally from Malta, this toy toy breed typically weighs 7 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as gentle, playful, charming.

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Chesapeake Bay Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Bloat

Maltese health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Liver shunt
  • Dental issues
  • White shaker syndrome