Breed group: Sporting

Average weight: male: 65-80, female: 55-70 lbs

Average height: male: 23-26 female: 21-24 inches

Colour(s): any color of brown, sedge, or deadgrass

General information: Originating in the United States, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever is often referred to as the Chessie. An avid hunter of fowl on both land and water, this breed was the first retriever breed to be recognized by the American Kennel Club. Although not as well known today as the Golden or Labrador Retrievers, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers make a wonderful family and field companion.

Temperament: Intensely loyal and deeply devoted, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever has a strong protective nature. This breed is friendly, loving, and affectionate. They do best in a home with older considerate children. They will generally get along with other dogs they have been raised with but have a tendency to be combative and aggressive with dogs they do not know. They do not do well with cats or other small household pets. This breed thrives on family interaction and will become destructive if ignored, lonely, or bored. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is not recommended for the novice, apathetic, or sedentary owner.

Character: The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is the most rugged and powerful of the six retriever breeds. This breed is a true nature lover. They are alert, intelligent, courageous, and extremely versatile. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is independent, tough, and possesses stoic determination. They are tenacious workers; bold and athletic.

Training: Slow to mature, willful, and stubborn, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever must have an experienced owner. Early socialization and obedience training are an absolute must. They do not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. Training must be done with firmness, fairness, patience, respect, and consistency. This breed displays talents in tracking, hunting, competitive obedience, schutzhund, field spots, and hunting.

Care: This breed requires once a week brushing to remove dead hair. It is important to not over groom, as this will damage the coat. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary to preserve the integrity of the water repellant coat. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is prone to such health issues as elbow and hip dysplasia, Von Willebrands Disease, PRA, and cataracts. They prefer cooler climates.

Activitiy: The Chesapeake Bay Retriever requires daily vigorous exercise. They enjoy swimming and make excellent walking, jogging, and bicycling companions. This breed must have physical and mental stimulation. They are not suited for apartment or city dwelling. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers do best in a home where they can run and romp freely in a safely fenced area.