Mary Allen
The Chesapeake is the strongest of retrievers – and their iron health is proverbial. Find out everything about the behavior, character, activity, and exercise needs, education, and care of the Chesapeake Bay Retriever dog breed in the profile.
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever gets its name from its place of origin. It was bred in the USA, in the state of Maryland on the Chesapeake Bay. It goes back to a cross between Newfoundland dogs, American hunting dogs, Curly-Coated Retrievers, and Water Spaniels. Supposedly in 1807 two Newfoundland dogs were rescued from a sinking English ship off the coast of Maryland to be used for breeding because the rescuers were so impressed with the fact that the two dogs could swim for hours in freezing cold water. The breed was primarily developed for duck hunting.
General Appearance
As a retriever that works diligently both on land and on water, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever has the external requirements for its job, which means that it can sometimes be in cold water for a longer period of time. The coat is short and very water-repellent, the short, hard topcoat is slightly wavy, the dense, fine undercoat contains a lot of fat. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever has a strong, well-balanced build and is medium-sized. The clear eyes are yellowish or amber in color. The small ears are set high on the head, the medium-length tail should be slightly curved or straight. In terms of color, all shades of brown are possible.
Behavior and temperament
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a brave, hard-working dog and is known to be cheerful and bright. He acts calmly according to the situation, has strong nerves and is loyal, and seeks a close bond with people, which should not, however, make his owner forget that he wants to have a job as a scavenger and retriever dog. He is very fond of water and likes to work in an independent manner, but is nevertheless willing to take commands.
Need for employment and physical activity
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is anything but a couch dog. He wants to be in nature and needs a lot of exercises there. But the companion who is willing to work not only wants to run extensively on long walks, cycling or jogging tours but also wants to give in to his inclination: You should do regular retrieval training with him and him, both on land and in “his element”, the water, let work.
Upbringing
This breed is not a dog for everyone, it is more suitable for advanced dogs. Because although the Chesapeake is loyal and has a strong character, it needs a consistent but loving upbringing and must be professionally socialized in good time. He is also a good guard dog in the right hand if his alertness is channeled in the right direction. By the way, he definitely has a mind of his own.
Maintenance
This breed should be brushed regularly to remove dead hair so that the water-resistant, oily undercoat is aired out again.
Disease Susceptibility / Common Diseases
Occasionally HD, ED, eye disease.
Did you know?
The Chesapeake is the strongest of retrievers – and their iron health is proverbial.