| AKC Group: | Sporting |
| A.K.A.: | Chessie |
| Functions: | Hunting dog, Companion |
| Year of Origin: | 1800s |
| Country of Origin: | England |
| Life Span (yr): | 10 - 12 |
| Colors: | Brown |
| Height (Inch): | 21 - 26 |
| Weight (lb): | 55 - 80 |
| Size: | Large |
| Hair Length: | Short |
| Energy: |  |
| Playfulness: | |
| Ease of Training: | |
| Exercise Needed: | |
| Self Protection: |  |
| Grooming: |  |
| Shedding: | |
| Watch Dog: | |
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Appearance:
Every aspect of the appearance of the Chesapeake Bay Retriever is designed for swimming in the coldest water in North America. His fur has a double layer that is thick to keep him warm and with oils that will naturally repel the iciest of water. His coat sometimes has a slight wave to it, especially around the neck, back, and shoulder areas. His eyes are bright and yellow in color. They are expressive and show his intelligence. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever’s ears hang loose on each side of his head and his body is muscular. His jaw is strong, so that he can carry waterfowl in his mouth during a hunt.
Temperament:
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a family oriented dog. He is generally happy, loyal, and affectionate. Being with his owner is the tip of the iceberg for a Chesapeake Bay Retriever. He is intelligent, and a hard worker, the perfect hunting companion. He is especially fond of the water. Different from other sporting breeds, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever has a protective side, and will guard his home, yard, and family courageously. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are great with children; however, they may instinctually chase rabbits, cats, and other small animals. He has a strong will and may have a tendency to try to force his owners to give in to his whims.
Health:
Chesapeake Bay Retrievers suffer from a few common disorders. The diseases of the eye can be among the most problematic. Specifically, he is prone to progressive retinal atrophy, a progressive disease where the rods and cones of the eye degenerate eventually causing night blindness, and then, total blindness. He can also suffer from degenerative myelopathy, a neurological disorder where the tissue surrounding the spinal cord is destroyed leading to paralysis. Probably the most common medical problem faced by the Chesapeake Bay Retriever is hip dysplasia, a painful disorder that can lead to immobility. Equally common is gastric torsion, a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and contorts itself around the esophagus, trapping the gas.
Maintenance:
A Chesapeake Bay Retriever is simple to maintain. Grooming only consists of frequent brushing to remove loose fur and to lessen shedding. Bathing is required only when he develops an odor – if he is bathed too frequently, he will be stripped of his oils which may cause him to become dangerously cold in icy waters and could affect his performance, as well. Since swimming is his favorite sport, it is the best way for him to burn some energy and have a great time. Owners can also take their Chesapeake Bay Retriever for a jog or simply throw the ball for him in the park.