Chesapeake Bay Retriever Breed- Facts

1.     AKC Group/Date Admitted:

Sporting Group/1993

2.     Size & Weight:

21-26"; 55-75 lbs.

3.     Coat:

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever's fur is short, dense, and a bit wooly underneath, harsher and oilier on the outside. It is furnished with water-repellant oil that helps make this dog ideal for its water-hunting .work.

4.     Head & Muzzle:

Sturdy head, wide-set and intelligent eyes (amber or yellow), and small, high-set ears are the ideal for Chesapeake Bay Retrievers.

5.     Body:

Solid, squarely-set body. Smoothly muscled and deep chested. Chessies are completely optimized for their water work.

6.     Colors:

All shades of brown from dead grass to dark chocolate.

7.     Life Expectancy:

10-13 years

8.     Popularity:

Chesapeake Bay Retrievers fall right in the midrange of the AKC's top 100 registrations.

9.     Habitat:

Generally considered a dog for the country, Chessies can manage city living if they get lots of exercise and some swimming in.

Chesapeake Bay Retriever- Origins

1.     Country of Origin:

U.S.

2.     Historical Information:

Bred in the late 1800's by settlers in the Chesapeake Bay area. They needed a strong dog that would love working in the water. By 1900, the breed was firmly established and Chessies were working waterways with hunters.

Chesapeake Bay Retriever- Defining Characteristics

1.     Temperament:

Friendly, intelligent, loyal dogs, but strongly territorial.

2.     Behavior:

Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are moderately well-behaved.

3.     Habits:

Chessies love water, and will take nearly any opportunity to paddle around. They can also be very territorial, and this behavior must be modified through training to avoid a domineering dog.

Chesapeake Bay Retriever- Concerns

1.     Health Issues:

Chessies are healthy, sturdy dogs. However, they have some common large-dog issues, including: • Hip dysplasia • Bloat • Osteochondrosis • Eye disorders, including entropion, cataracts, and PRA (progressive retinal atrophy) • Von Will brand’s Disease (a clotting disorder) • Cerebellar abiotrophy (a progressive nervous system disorder)

2.     Exercise Needs:

Extensive exercise is needed to including some swimming to help this dog be healthy and happy.

3.     Grooming Needs:

Brush this breed with a firm bristle brush, but only bathe as needed.

4.     Travel Needs:

Double-coated dogs need to be transported with care to their tendency to overheat.

5.     Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

Will get along well with other pets, but will probably try to be their superior in the pack. Excellent with children.

Chesapeake Bay Retriever- How to Choose

1.     What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

Clear eyes, sleek coats, and tons of energy.

2.     What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

An appropriate crate, door gates and backyard dog fencing will keep him safe. Lots of toys and room to run will keep him happy.

3.     Puppy-Proofing your House:

Puppies are small and explore a lot. Be sure that there is anything that your dog can get into, pull out, or chew is safe for him. Chessies chew a LOT. Be prepared.