Miniature American Shepherd vs Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Breed Compatibility
75% Compatible
Energy Level
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Chesapeake Bay Retriever: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Chesapeake Bay Retriever: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Chesapeake Bay Retriever: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Chesapeake Bay Retriever3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Chesapeake Bay Retriever3/5
Good with Strangers
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Chesapeake Bay Retriever3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defect
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Cataracts: Vision clouding concern
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
Miniature American Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Versatile working ability
Compact size
Strong herding instincts
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct may need management
Requires consistent training
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
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Chesapeake Bay Retriever Fun Fact
Their unique coat contains oils that make it naturally water-repellent and ideal for icy water retrieval.
Heritage & Purpose
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds, these dogs were bred specifically for herding smaller livestock and companion work.
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
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Regular coat maintenance needed during shedding seasons. Requires consistent exercise and water activities. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.