The records of the Chesapeake Bay Retriever is one of the most fascinating— and fortunate—in dogdom. In 1807, an American ship rescued the team and cargo from a shipwrecked English brig off the coast of Maryland. Among the rescued were possibly Newfoundland doggies that were given to the rescuers. These doggies (one black and one red) later became professional water retrievers. As their reputations grew, many local retrievers of the uncertain background came to be bred to them. It is likewise a concept that Irish Water Spaniel, Newfoundland, Bloodhound, and different local hound crosses were introduced to improve the breed. Gradually an extraordinary local breed emerged, a puppy that might repeatedly swim thru the challenging icy waters of the Chesapeake Bay and unerringly retrieve duck after duck. By 1885, the breed was very well established and identified by the AKC. Despite being one of the oldest AKC recognized breeds and one of the few breeds that could boast of being made in the United States, the Chessie’s reputation has remained modest.

Temperement

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is tough enough to withstand and relish repeated plunges into the icy water. He likes to swim and retrieve. Despite an active life while outdoors, interior he tends to be calm. The Chessie tends to be independent, even though he’s eager to learn. He is reserved with strangers and maybe defensive; he also may be aggressive towards strange puppies if challenged. This is the hardiest, most strong-willed, training, and defensive of the retriever breeds.

Upkeep

The Chessie is a huge energetic canine that desires an everyday exercise. The oily, wavy coat requires weekly brushing however is usually effortlessly maintained. The Chessie seldom prefers washing; it’s tough to get a Chessie wet! Bathing wipe out the coat’s oils and, hence its water resistance.

Health

“Major diagnosis: CHD, gastric torsion
Minor diagnosis: PRA, hypothyroidism
Occasionally seen: entropion, OCD, elbow dysplasia, cerebellar abiotrophy
Suggested tests: hip, eye, elbow, (thyroid), (cardiac)
Life span: 10–13 years”

Disclaimer

Note: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet.