Breed comparison

Black Russian Terrier vs Chesapeake Bay Retriever

How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.

3Affection with family4
3Good with young children3
3Good with other dogs3
2Openness to strangers3
3Playfulness3
4Energy level4
4Trainability5
4Mental stimulation needs4
4Adaptability4
5Watchdog / protective4
3Barking3
3Shedding3
4Coat grooming3
3Drooling2

The biggest differences

These two breeds are close on every trait: no score differs by more than one point.

They score the same on good with young children, good with other dogs, playfulness, energy level, mental stimulation needs, adaptability.

Which one should you choose?

Pick the Black Russian Terrier if you want a more protective watchdog. Pick the Chesapeake Bay Retriever if you want a dog that is easier to train.

Ratings are general breed tendencies from the AKC. Every dog is an individual, so meet the dog, and its parents if you can, before you decide. Not sure? Try the breed selector.

Source: American Kennel Club breed ratings (compiled February 2022). How we check.

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