CHESAPEAKE BAY RETRIEVER
APPEARANCE
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a large, muscular dog that is sturdy and very solid looking even as a puppy. Distinctive features include eyes that are very clear, of yellowish or amber hue and a double coat that tends to wave on shoulders, neck, back and loins. They come in various shades of brown ranging from a lighter tan or straw color through to a deep brown or mahogany color. The weight of the Chesapeake Bay Retriever is around 55-80 pounds, and the height is 21-26 inches.
PERSONALITY
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is valued for its bright and happy disposition, intelligence, quiet good sense, and affectionate protective nature. Some of them can be quite vocal when happy, and some will ’smile’ by baring their front teeth. They are willing, courageous and strong with a tendency to be very territorial. The Chesapeake is different from other retrievers as it tends to be more aggressive and reserved with strangers.
TRAINING
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a versatile breed competing in field trials, hunt tests, conformation, obedience, agility and tracking, yet remains true to its roots as a hunting dog of great stamina and ability. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is an intelligent breed and learns at a high speed. They do not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. Training must be done with firmness, fairness, patience, respect, and consistency.
EXERCISE
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever requires long, regular exercise to keep focused and avoid destructive behaviors. They love to swim and should be allowed to do so as often as possible. This breed must have physical and mental stimulation. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a good companion dog for hiking, jogging and traveling.
SOCIALIZATION
Early socialization and obedience training are an absolute must. These dogs can be territorial and can therefore be aggressive with strange animals and wary around strangers. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever gets along well with considerate children, and will also accept family pets that he has been brought up and well socialized with.
LIVING CONDITIONS
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. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is not well-suited to a hotter climate except if there is a lake, river, or ocean nearby.
GROOMING
Occasional brushing with a short wire brush or pin brush is all that is required to remove any dead hair and debris. Since the breed has a natural water repelling coat they should only be bathed when necessary to prevent drying the coat and skin. The ears and eyes of the Chesapeake Bay Retriever should be checked for any signs of irritation.
HEALTH ISSUES
The life expectancy of the Chesapeake Bay Retriever is around 10-12 years. Significant health concerns for the breed include canine hip dysplasia and gastric torsion; less common problems include progressive retinal atrophy and hypothyroidism. They are somewhat prone to Gastric torsion or Bloat and should have several small meals rather than one large meal.
HISTORY
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever originates from the USA, and has been used to retrieve geese and ducks from the roughest and coldest of waters. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1878.
