American Water Spaniel vs Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
American Water Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Chesapeake Bay Retriever: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
American Water Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Chesapeake Bay Retriever: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
American Water Spaniel: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Chesapeake Bay Retriever: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
American Water Spaniel3/5
Chesapeake Bay Retriever3/5
Good with Other Dogs
American Water Spaniel3/5
Chesapeake Bay Retriever3/5
Good with Strangers
American Water Spaniel3/5
Chesapeake Bay Retriever3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
American Water Spaniel
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Cardiac Issues: Heart murmurs common
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Ear Infections: Due to water exposure
Pattern Baldness: Hereditary condition
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Bloat: Gastric dilatation-volvulus
Von Willebrand's: Blood clotting disorder
Epilepsy: Neurological seizure condition
DM: Degenerative myelopathy concerns
Pros & Cons Comparison
American Water Spaniel
Pros
Excellent water retrievers
Versatile hunting companions
Good family dogs
Moderate size
Smart and trainable
Cons
Requires regular grooming
Can be stubborn
Needs lots of exercise
May be reserved with strangers
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Pros
Excellent water retriever
Loyal family companion
Weather-resistant coat
Strong work ethic
Cons
Heavy shedding
Needs extensive exercise
Can be stubborn
Reserved with strangers
American Water Spaniel Fun Fact
One of the few dog breeds developed in America specifically for hunting from small boats in rough water.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever Fun Fact
Their unique coat contains oils that make it naturally water-repellent and ideal for icy water retrieval.
Heritage & Purpose
American Water Spaniel
Origin: United States
Developed in the Great Lakes region during the 19th century, these dogs excelled at waterfowl hunting in challenging conditions. Their compact size suited them for small fishing boats.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Origin:
Developed along Maryland's Chesapeake Bay in the 19th century, these dogs were bred to retrieve waterfowl in harsh conditions, including icy waters and rough weather.
Special Considerations
American Water Spaniel
Regular grooming needed to maintain coat condition. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Prone to ear infections due to water activities.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Regular coat maintenance needed during shedding seasons. Requires consistent exercise and water activities. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.