Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Very much a rugged working animal used for hunting in the most adverse weather conditions and immune to pampering, this is a loyal and friendly dog which is very attached to those he knows.

History:

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is an American breed whose two direct ancestors were recovered from a shipwreck off the coast of Maryland, USA. They were possibly Newfoundlands, noted for their retrieving ability, which were cross-bred with other dogs used as sporting dogs in the area. By 1885 the Standard was established, and a club for the breed was formed in 1918. The breed became renowned for its retrieving ability and hardiness in the freezing waters around the Chesapeake Bay in the duck hunting seasons, and took its name from the area.

Physical characteristics:

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a medium, solidly built dog. Height: 23 - 26 in (58.5 - 66 cm) for the dog and 21 - 24 in (53 - 61 cm) for the bitch. Weight: 65 - 75 lb (29.5 - 34 kg) for the dog and 55 - 65 lb (25 - 29.5 kg) for the bitch.

The skull is round and broad with a medium stop and short muzzle. The eyes are medium-sized, clear yellowish brown and set well apart. The ears hang freely, are small and set high. The body is medium-sized and the tail is straight or curved slightly. The Chesapeake has a coarse, oily outer coat with a wave on the neck, shoulders, back, and loin. The undercoat is dense, but fine and wooly.

This combination keeps the freezing water from getting through to the dog's skin, as the oily outer coat will shed the bulk of the water after a good shake. The coat color varies in the Chesapeake from a dark brown to a faded tan or "deadgrass." The coat color has been bred to match the colors of the hunting surroundings, particularly the "deadgrass" color which is the shade of dull straw.

Behavior:

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a large confident dog, with an even-tempered personality. Although this dog is a powerful athlete, it is slow to anger and remains very loyal. Its alert manner and devotion to the family, combine to produce an excellent watch-dog.

This adorable retriever gets along very well with most other dogs, although there are still benefits to be gained from early socialization. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever retains its excellent working dog abilities yet still makes a wonderful companion animal for families. However, care should be taken not to let this powerful dog knock over small children in play. When given lots of attention, this marvelous retriever will reward its owner time and again with its loyalty. Some Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, especially the females, can become snappy if allowed to go unchecked. As it is possible that this behavior is genetic, both parents should be seen before choosing a puppy.

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever benefits from regular exercise and if passively encouraged as a puppy, will love to swim in open water. This dog is normally a voracious eater and can sometimes put on excess weight if not allowed too exercise vigorously.

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever should have its ears regularly checked, particularly in warmer weather. The coat should have major tangles removed after exercising. However, it is better not too brush the dog to vigorously until after the coat has dried out.

This dog is a truly magnificent retriever and will reward its owner with boundless affection and loyalty.