Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Family: gundog, retriever

Origin: United States

Date of Origin: 1800s

Breed For: water retriever

Lifespan:

Recently Used For: water retriever, retriever field trials, companion

Avg Size of Male: Height: 23-26 in (58-66 cm) Weight: 65-80 lbs (29-36 kg)

Avg Size of Female: Height:21-24 in (53-61 cm) Weight: 55-70 lbs (25-32 kg)

Temperament:

The Chesapeake Bay retriever is hardy enough to not only withstand, but also relish, repeated plunges into icy water. It loves to swim and retrieve. Despite an active life when outdoors, inside it tends to be calm. The Chessie tends to be independent, although it is eager to learn. It is reserved with strangers and can be protective; it also can be aggressive toward strange dogs if challenged. This is the hardiest, most strong-willed and protective of the retriever breeds.

History:

In 1807, an American ship rescued the crew and cargo from a shipwrecked English brig off the coast of Maryland. Among the rescued were two presumably Newfoundland pups that were given to the rescuers. These pups (one black and one red) later proved to be skilled water retrievers, and as their reputations grew, many local retrievers of uncertain background came to be bred to them. It is also thought that Irish water spaniel, Newfoundland, bloodhound and other local hound crosses added to the development of the breed. Gradually a distinct local breed emerged, a dog that would repeatedly swim through the rough icy waters of the Chesapeake Bay and unerringly retrieve duck after duck. Even today, the Chessie is renowned for its remarkable ability to mark and remember where a bird has fallen. Its reputation spread well beyond the Chesapeake Bay area.

Upkeep:

The Chessie is a large active dog that needs a daily chance to exercise. It enjoys a good walk or swim. It can live outside in temperate conditions, but more than anything it prefers to spend time with its family. The oily, wavy coat needs weekly brushing but is generally easily maintained. It seldom needs washing; in fact, it's hard to get a Chessie wet! Bathing destroys the coat's oils and thus, its water resistance.

Health:

Major concerns: CHD, gastric torsion#Minor concerns: PRA#Occasionally seen: entropion, OCD, elbow dysplasia, cerebellar abiotrophy#Suggested tests: hip, eye#Life span: 10 – 13 years