Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Group Classification: Gun Dog, AKC Sporting Group
Country of Origin: United States of America
Date of Origin: 1807
Weight M: 65-80 pounds
Height M: 23-26 inches
Weight F: 55-70 pounds
Height F: 21-24 inches
Life Expectancy About 10-12 years

History

During the winter of 1807, there was an English shipwreck off the Maryland coast where everybody was saved, including two dogs which were given to a dog loving family. The local retriever breeds mated with that pair and the result was the Chesapeake Bay Retriever, which proved to be an excellent hunting dog. Careful breeding as years passed resulted in an exceptional retriever combining incredible endurance and enthusiasm. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are capable of retrieving an average of 200 ducks daily while in chilly waters. These dogs are outstanding in tracking and obedience as well as in field trials, hunting tests and retrieving. They are similarly excellent family companions.

General Description

Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are powerful and masculine dogs with a short, slightly wavy coat that is commonly in shades of tan, red, or brown. There is a preference of solid colors with a permissible white coloring on their feet and chest. Both their harsh exterior coat and their dense undercoat of wool are oily, ensuring water repellency. This breed of dog has a broad round head with a medium muzzle and stop. They have thin lips, with small ears hanging downwards and possess yellowish colored eyes. They have a 12-15 inch long tail, straight, good-boned forelegs, strong hindquarters, and webbed toes which contribute to their excellent swimming capability.

Temperament

Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are obedient, friendly and intelligent dogs. They are courageous, loving, willing and trainable despite being slow learners. These affectionate dogs are ideal in the company of children and are happiest when swimming and retrieving. This breed is readily compatible with cats sharing their daily surroundings, but have a tendency of chasing other cats. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are not recommended for inexperienced dog owners since the handler should be capable of exerting his authority in a confident manner in regards to the dog. The successful owner will be consistent, firm, but kind and realize proper human to canine communication is imperative. Once these dogs sense a timid, meek, or passive behavior in their owners, they may become dominant and develop dominance problems.

Health and Care

Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are prone to hip dysplasia and eye problems. They are generally healthy animals and the only major health issues are gastric torsion and CHD, while progressive retinal atrophy and hypothyroidism are relatively minor issues. Lack of adequate exercise may result in the dog adopting bad behavior(s) attributed to boredom and bottling up of energy. A jog or an invigorating long walk is necessary on a daily basis. Although it is optional to remove these dogs' front dewclaws, those on their rear legs must be removed.

Other Important Information

These dogs are territorial and tend to dominate within their immediate surrounding. Their lifespan can be up to 14 years, but 11-12 years is the norm. Apartment life is not ideal for Chesapeake Bay Retrievers since they like sleeping outdoors and have a preference of cool climates and love the water.

Pets4You offers listings of Chesapeake Bay Retriever breeders with puppies for sale.