Group: Sporting

Weight: male: 65-80, female: 55-70 lbs

Height: male: 23-26 female: 21-24 inches

Overview

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is originally from the United States, and often referred to as the "Chessie". These dogs are enthusiastic hunters of fowls on both land and water. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever was the first retriever to be documented by the American Kennel Club. Even though they are not as well known today as the Golden or Labrador Retrievers, the Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are wonderful family and field companion dogs.

Temperament

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is extremely loyal and deeply devoted; the Chesapeake Bay Retriever has a strong caring nature. This breed is gracious, warm, and loving. They will adapt best in a home with older caring children. In general, these dogs get along well with other dogs if they have been brought up with them. They do however have a tendency to be aggressive and hostile toward dogs they are not familiar with. This breed does not get along with cats and other, smaller household pets. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever loves to be involved with the family, and might become destructive when left alone for extended periods of time. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is not ideal for the inexperienced dog owner.

Care

These dogs should be brushed about once during the week to remove the dead hair. It is vital for these dogs not to be groomed too much as this will harm the coat. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever should only be bathed when it is really necessary in order to protect the integrity the coat. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is an average shedding dog.

Training

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is very clever dog an intelligent dog that is very precise and devoted to their family when socialised and trained correctly. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is not quite as fast to learn as some of the other breeds, and will require a tolerant trainer that will offer plenty of repetition. This breed should only be taught by one person until they have learned the command, otherwise they might become confused.

Health problems

Overall, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a rather healthy breed. They are however prone to bloat, and it is therefore advised that they rather have a number of small meals rather than one large meal. These dogs should also not exercise directly after eating. Hip dysplasia is a minor concern with these dogs, and progressive retinal atrophy and entropion are eye conditions that are also seen with the Chesapeake Bay Retriever.