Chesapeake Bay Retriever
The intensely protective and athletic Chesapeake Bay Retriever has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years
Origin
In the early 1800s, two Newfoundland dogs were rescued from a shipwreck in Maryland. The dogs were found to be skilled at retrieving and were especially good in the water. They were eventually mixed with the Curly-Coated Retriever, Otterhound and other breeds to refine their hunting and retrieving abilities. The new breed became known as the Chesapeake Bay Retriever.
Size
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a muscular dog that weighs 55 to 80 pounds and measures 21 to 26 inches.
Grooming Needs
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever has a water-resistant coat that is thick, oily and short. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers shed heavily all year round, but their coats do not need to be trimmed. They should be brushed once a week and bathed only when necessary. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers also need their ears checked whenever they come in from a hunting or retrieving trip.
Like all dogs, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever also needs basic grooming. Brush their teeth, clean their ears and trim their nails on a regular basis.
Character
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a loyal sporting dog that adores their family, but remains distant with outsiders.
Temperament
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is more independent and aloof than other retrievers. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers love their families; they grow very close to them and want to be with them as much as possible. However, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are indifferent to people outside the family. They are rather serious and can be very wary of strangers. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers make good guard dogs and watch dogs.
Training Needs
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is among the most difficult breeds to train. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever retains a puppy mentality for a long time and is quite strong willed. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers require an experienced and strong handler. They should be treated with kindness and will shut down if harshly disciplined.
As part of their training, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers should be socialized as early as possible. Socialization is necessary to keep them becoming territorial or aggressive.
Activity Level
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a hard worker that loves the outdoors, especially swimming. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are great partners for jogs, hikes and bicycle rides. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers need lots of exercise and time outside to run and romp. They have lots of energy and endurance, and can be rowdy and rambunctious. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers can become destructive if they do not have enough outdoor and exercise time.
