Chesapeake Bay Retriever Breed- Facts
1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:
Sporting Group/1993
2. Size & Weight:
21-26"; 55-75 lbs.
3. Coat:
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever's fur is short, dense, and a bit wooly underneath, harsher and oilier on the outside. It is furnished with water-repellant oil that helps make this dog ideal for its water-hunting .work.
4. Head & Muzzle:
Sturdy head, wide-set and intelligent eyes (amber or yellow), and small, high-set ears are the ideal for Chesapeake Bay Retrievers.
5. Body:
Solid, squarely-set body. Smoothly muscled and deep chested. Chessies are completely optimized for their water work.
6. Colors:
All shades of brown from dead grass to dark chocolate.
7. Life Expectancy:
10-13 years
8. Popularity:
Chesapeake Bay Retrievers fall right in the midrange of the AKC's top 100 registrations.
9. Habitat:
Generally considered a dog for the country, Chessies can manage city living if they get lots of exercise and some swimming in.
- Origins
1. Country of Origin:
U.S.
2. Historical Information:
Bred in the late 1800's by settlers in the Chesapeake Bay area. They needed a strong dog that would love working in the water. By 1900, the breed was firmly established and Chessies were working waterways with hunters.
- Defining Characteristics
1. Temperament:
Friendly, intelligent, loyal dogs, but strongly territorial.
2. Behavior:
Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are moderately well-behaved.
3. Habits:
Chessies love water, and will take nearly any opportunity to paddle around. They can also be very territorial, and this behavior must be modified through training to avoid a domineering dog.
- Concerns
1. Health Issues:
Chessies are healthy, sturdy dogs. However, they have some common large-dog issues, including: • Hip dysplasia • Bloat • Osteochondrosis • Eye disorders, including entropion, cataracts, and PRA (progressive retinal atrophy) • Von Will brand’s Disease (a clotting disorder) • Cerebellar abiotrophy (a progressive nervous system disorder)
2. Exercise Needs:
Extensive exercise is needed to including some swimming to help this dog be healthy and happy.
3. Grooming Needs:
Brush this breed with a firm bristle brush, but only bathe as needed.
4. Travel Needs:
Double-coated dogs need to be transported with care to their tendency to overheat.
5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:
Will get along well with other pets, but will probably try to be their superior in the pack. Excellent with children.
- How to Choose
1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:
Clear eyes, sleek coats, and tons of energy.
2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:
An appropriate crate, door gates and backyard dog fencing will keep him safe. Lots of toys and room to run will keep him happy.
3. Puppy-Proofing your House:
Puppies are small and explore a lot. Be sure that there is anything that your dog can get into, pull out, or chew is safe for him. Chessies chew a LOT. Be prepared.
