Chesapeake Bay Retriever vs Karelian Bear Dog
Breed Compatibility
83% Compatible
Energy Level
Chesapeake Bay Retriever: Energetic0.8
Karelian Bear Dog: Calm0.4
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Chesapeake Bay Retriever: Agreeable0.6
Karelian Bear Dog: N/A
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Chesapeake Bay Retriever: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Karelian Bear Dog: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Chesapeake Bay Retriever3/5
Karelian Bear Dog1/5
Good with Other Dogs
Chesapeake Bay Retriever3/5
Karelian Bear Dog3/5
Good with Strangers
Chesapeake Bay Retriever3/5
Karelian Bear Dog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
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
Karelian Bear Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive vision issues
Dental Disease: Periodontal concerns
Ear Infections: Due to erect ears
Heart Issues: Cardiac health monitoring
Joint Problems: Elbow dysplasia risk
Pros & Cons Comparison
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
Karelian Bear Dog
Pros
Exceptionally loyal
Brave and protective
Independent
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
Strong prey drive
Can be territorial
Needs extensive training
Not suitable for novice owners
Chesapeake Bay Retriever Fun Fact
Their unique coat contains oils that make it naturally water-repellent and ideal for icy water retrieval.
Karelian Bear Dog Fun Fact
One of few breeds specifically developed to hunt bears, earning respect from Finnish hunters for their bravery.
Heritage & Purpose
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.
Karelian Bear Dog
Origin:
Developed in Karelia during the 1930s to hunt large game, particularly bears. Finnish hunters prized these dogs for their exceptional tracking abilities and fearless nature in confronting dangerous prey.
Special Considerations
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Regular coat maintenance needed during shedding seasons. Requires consistent exercise and water activities. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Karelian Bear Dog
Requires secure fencing due to strong prey drive. Regular brushing needed during shedding seasons. Early socialization and training essential for balanced temperament.