Equally proficient on land and in the water, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever was developed along the Chesapeake Bay to hunt waterfowl under the most adverse weather and water conditions, often having to break ice during the course of many strenuous multiple retrieves. Frequently the Chesapeake must face wind, tide and long cold swims in its work.
The breed was and is, first and foremost, a dog for water work in harsh conditions – he possess a love of water, thick coat, conformation for swimming, birdiness, strength, intelligence and perseverance. The dogs were expected to figure out problems, be protective but not aggressive of his master’s birds and blind, and be devoted to his “family.” The conscientious breeder today strives to maintain both working ability and quality conformation. As a result, there is not a significant gap between the field and conformation lines.
The Chesapeake is a handsome headed, well boned dog with a broad, deep chest, strong rear and a thick double coat of various waving styles. He comes in a color palette of browns, sedge (red) and deadgrass (blonde). His size ranges from 21″ to 24″ for females and 23″ to 26″ for males- the sizes suited to the various hunting conditions.
As a companion, the Chesapeake is a highly intelligent and independent thinking dog. He is very aware of his surroundings and his loyal loving nature with his “family” find him a good watch dog. He is very affectionate with his owners and considers himself an equal member of his family. At home, he is a quiet sensible dog that loves to follow you from room to room. Outdoors, he is an active dog who loves to swim, hike, hunt and retrieve, or do anything his owner likes to do. It is imperative that owners set boundaries of acceptable behavior from puppyhood. Obedience and socialization are extremely important. Training must be consistent – you must mean what you say. They are very clever even as puppies. Without direction, they can quickly get out of hand and end up training you! If this is the right breed for you, most people never own another breed of dog.
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever was one of the original nine breeds recognized in 1878 before the American Kennel Club was founded in 1884.
All those original recognized breeds are now called “Sporting” breeds.