Chesapeake Bay Retriever Dog

Breed: Retriever

Height: Male: 23-26, Female: 21-24

Weight: Male:65-80 Female: 55-70

Coat: Double coat

 

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever, fondly called Chessy/Chessies, is probably the most competent of all retriever breeds, that owes its roots to the Chesapeake Bay in USA. Bred to hunt under extreme water and weather conditions, this breed of retriever dogs is much lauded for its fine prowess to work through ice and ice-cold water. An unyielding hunter, Chessies are both suited for land and water and can stand all kinds of arduous labor. They are steady-tempered, adorable dogs that are perfectly suited as house pets. These happy-go-lucky breed of dog, though get along with both their human and animal friends, can get self-willed and stubborn at times. Chessies love water and need a lot of exercise to stay fit and happy. Dearth of physical activity can result in temper tantrums, excessive barking and destructive chewing. To know more on the history, appearance, temperament, health and care of this breed of retriever, read on.

 

The history of Chesapeake Bay Retriever stretches back to Chesapeake Bay In Maryland, USA. Dog experts trace its root to two Newfoundlands who were retrieved from a wrecked English ship, off the coast of Maryland, way back in the year 1807. These Newfies were crossed with local retrievers, English Otter Hound and Irish Water Spaniel to develop Chesapeake Bay Retriever. The breed owes its name to its place of origin, Chesapeake. Meticulous breeding over the years have resulted in this outstanding breed of dogs, known for its endurance and enthusiasm. Chessies were used in tracking, guarding, watchdogging, schutzhund and field trial. These dogs are known for their fine prowess to fetch waterfowl in rough, ice cold, frigid water, thanks to their water-resistant coat that never allows any water to stay in. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever was acknowledged by American Kennel Club in 1878.

 

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever, with its sinewy build and toned features, gives the impression of grace and agility. These powerful breed of retrievers have an impressive build, with their thick watertight lustrous outer coat, adding to their overall appeal. They have broad head, round skull, pointed muzzle and wide-set eyes. They are double coated dogs with short, thick, rough, outer coat and a wooly undercoat. Chessies come in three basic colors, namely, sedge, deadgrass and brown.

Chessies are an extremely intelligent breed of dog, much feted for their courage, compliance and cute grin. They make for great house pets, thanks to their affectionate and amicable nature, willingness to please and ability to gel well with kids. They are absolute water babies and love water sports. However, this ‘one-man dog’ can be headstrong at times and may need to be constantly reminded, as to who is the boss. Anyone willing to pet this breed should know how to discipline it, as they tend to become defensive, hostile, self-willed and reserved if left on their own. Chessies are strong canines and require firm training and excellent supervision. These steady-tempered dogs are usually slow to mature, but are real delight to have around.

 

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a healthy dog with no known genetic disability. However, these breed of dogs are vulnerable to eye problems, OCD, HD, PRA and hip dysplasia.

 

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is an average shedder and requires just a little grooming. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers have short, harsh, dense and oily outer-coat that is basically easy to groom. Occasional brushing and bathing is all it takes to keep this dog healthy and happy.