Dog Breeds > Chesapeake Bay Retriever

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever

The Chesapeake Bay retriever is another one of the skilled dog breeds that you should not miss. Having one of this fascinating breed in your family would definitely give you fun and a loving companion.

Energy Playfulness Intelligence Grooming Popularity

Fascinating Facts

The Chesapeake Bay retriever’s historical background is one of the most fascinating histories among the dog breeds. In 1807, an English cargo ship was shipwrecked and was rescued by American ship on the coast of Maryland. The rescuers were given black and red Newfoundland puppies which was included on the rescued ones. 

The puppies became skilled water retrievers and several local breeds were later mixed to the Newfoundland retrievers. It is said that the Irish Water Spaniel, Newfoundland, Bloodhound and other unknown local breeds were used to achieve the current Chesapeake Bay retriever’s breed. This breed is very effective on hunting waterfowls and would not hesitate to jump on the lake, pond or swamp to get its prey.
The Chesapeake Bay retriever is known on its many nicknames – Chessie, Chesapeake or CBR.

Physical Appearance

The Chesapeake Bay retriever’s standard height and weight is 23 – 26 inches and 65 – 80 pounds respectively. They are muscular and powerful breed; their head is broad and the muzzle is as long as its skull. Their eyes are amber to yellowish color and are wide set. Their ears are small and loosely hanging on both sides of their head.
Their tail is heavy and medium sized. Their feet are webbed to help them whenever they are swimming to hunt their prey. Their coat is naturally oily; it helps them endure cold temperature whenever they are swimming. Shade of dead grass, red, and tan and brown are their natural coat colors. There are times that a white spot is seen on their chest, belly or tips of their tail.

Grooming

The Chesapeake Bay retriever’s short and thick and oily coat bears a prominent smell. This dog should only be bathed once a week so that its natural oil in its body would not be removed. Regular brushing and removal of dead hair should be done on a regular basis though.

Mood

The Chesapeake Bay retriever loves to swim so don’t be surprised if it suddenly jumps into a pool of water. They are brave and passionate pets. They are willing and eager to please but could have a little difficulty especially during training.

They could get along with cats that are already inside the house but would certainly chase other cats outside their territory. They could also become a little bit dominant and destructive especially if they did not get enough exercise.

With Children

The Chesapeake Bay retriever are fun loving pets; they would surely love the children playing with them. This breed loves outdoor activities especially running and swimming.

Training & Exercise

The Chesapeake Bay retriever needs to have daily exercise in so that they would not exhibit destructive behaviors. Daily brisk walks or swimming are the things that they should get to make them happy for the rest of the day.

Training a Chessie however could become a challenge for owners/trainers/handlers. Although they are willing to please, learning could be a little slow for them. They respond to food-reward training but do not expect to learn things immediately.

Health & Life Expectancy

The Chesapeake Bay retriever has a normal life expectancy of 10 – 12 years. This breed is susceptible to hip dysplasia and eye problems. They are also prone to gastric torsion and CHD. OCD, entropion and elbow dysplasia are occasionally seen on Chesapeake Bay Retriever.

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