Chesapeake Bay Retriever vs West Highland White Terrier

Sporting · Large vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Chesapeake Bay Retriever is the larger breed at 65–80 lbs (males) vs 15–20 lbs for the West Highland White Terrier.
  • The West Highland White Terrier typically lives longer (13–15 years).
  • The West Highland White Terrier sheds less.
  • The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitChesapeake Bay RetrieverWest Highland White Terrier
Group
SportingTerrier
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
USAScotland
Height (male)
23–26"11"
Height (female)
21–24"10"
Weight (male)
65–80 lbs15–20 lbs
Weight (female)
55–70 lbs15–20 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–13 years13–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
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)High (4/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
shortwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
Ad slot · compare-mid

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 West Highland White Terrier

The West Highland White Terrier is a loyal, happy, entertaining little terrier — the iconic Cesar dog food face with a snowy coat. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 15–20 lbs and lives 13–15 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, happy, entertaining.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Chesapeake Bay Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Bloat

West Highland White Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Skin allergies
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Liver disease