Chesapeake Bay Retriever vs Saint Bernard
Breed Compatibility
86% Compatible
Energy Level
Chesapeake Bay Retriever: Energetic0.8
Saint Bernard: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Chesapeake Bay Retriever: Agreeable0.6
Saint Bernard: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Chesapeake Bay Retriever: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Saint Bernard: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Chesapeake Bay Retriever3/5
Saint Bernard5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Chesapeake Bay Retriever3/5
Saint Bernard3/5
Good with Strangers
Chesapeake Bay Retriever3/5
Saint Bernard3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
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
Saint Bernard
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Bloat: Stomach twisting condition
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Eye Problems: Various disorders
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint problems
Bone Cancer: Higher risk breed
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
Saint Bernard
Pros
Gentle and patient with children
Loyal and protective
Good-natured temperament
Excellent cold weather tolerance
Cons
Heavy drooling
Expensive to feed and maintain
Short lifespan
Not suited for hot climates
Chesapeake Bay Retriever Fun Fact
Their unique coat contains oils that make it naturally water-repellent and ideal for icy water retrieval.
Saint Bernard Fun Fact
The iconic barrel around their neck was never actually used in rescues - it's a popular myth from paintings!
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.
Saint Bernard
Origin:
Mountain rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps during the 17th-19th centuries, saving countless lives at the Saint Bernard Pass hospice. Renowned for locating and reviving stranded travelers.
Special Considerations
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Regular coat maintenance needed during shedding seasons. Requires consistent exercise and water activities. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Saint Bernard
Heavy shedding requires regular grooming. Drooling management needed. Exercise moderation in warm weather essential. Joint health supplements often recommended.