Chesapeake Bay Retriever

10 Year Old Sinjin

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a loyal dog that often receives a bad reputation among the uninitiated. In reality, Chessies are loyal, courageous and friendly dogs that only need confident owners to realize their full potential; either as hunting companions or family pets.

The breed itself has an intriguing history. After a shipwreck off the cost of Maryland, two rescued Newfoundland pups were given to a local family and latter bred with retrievers. These dogs quickly became known for the legendary hunting skills and ability to continue working in frigid, icy conditions.

Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are “double coated”, having a short, wavy outer coat and a fine, wooly undercoat. This under coat contains natural oils that aid in their tolerance of very cold water. Seasonal shedding makes it a necessity to groom them regularly.

Most Chesapeake Bays possess qualities that make them ideal for families: loyalty, intelligence, responsiveness to their master and outstanding ability to protect. Being youthful at heart, these playful dogs love being around children and are quite able to tolerate roughhousing. But, as with any dog, activity with young ones should be supervised.

This unique breed also ranks above the traditional Labrador in terms of hunting ability and dedication to please.

On the downside, they need extra attention with training as they are stubborn, and are often slow to learn. They may also appear reserved with strangers, taking an aggressive stance to protect their family. As they age, specific health concerns usually involve hip dysplasia and difficulties with vision.

For their size, the estimated lifespan is good, with the average being ten years of age. Their appearance is striking – a strong muscular build, boxy head and vibrant, oval-shaped eyes that are amber in color. Their coats range in colors from dead-grass to a dark brown and they generally stand between 23-26 inches tall, weighing in at 75 lbs.

Due to their size, adoration of the water and outside activity, they are not well-suited for apartment life but do very well in city space with adequate room to roam.