Breeds

Chesapeake Bay Retriever

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is the quintessential wildfowler’s dog, and the largest, most athletic retriever. Born and bred in the USA, the breed was created in the early 1800s after two Newfoundland dogs were saved from a shipwreck and then crossed with local dogs. It was a breed initially borne out of necessity by duck

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The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is the quintessential wildfowler’s dog, and the largest, most athletic retriever. Born and bred in the USA, the breed was created in the early 1800s after two Newfoundland dogs were saved from a shipwreck and then crossed with local dogs. It was a breed initially borne out of necessity by duck hunters in the Chesapeake Bay area, which gave the breed its name.

Chesapeake Bay Retriever Characteristics

Sometimes nicknamed the ‘Chessie’, this retriever is strong and muscular, with a naturally camouflaged oily coat and yellow to amber eyes.

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is similar in shape to the labrador, but has a personality all of its own; it’s independent, courageous, and highly focused at work, with an innate guarding instinct. Loyal and affectionate with its owners, this breed tends to be wary of strangers and other dogs. It is considered good with children, but requires plenty of socialisation and leadership in the home.

The Chesapeake is the breed of choice for wildfowlers, but it also excels at retrieving on land and can be used for rough shooting or picking up at shoots. Some of these retrievers are also used in Scotland to track deer.

Owning A Chesapeake Bay Retriever: Pros And Cons

Pros Of Owning This Retriever

A dependable working dog
Has a steady temper
Can be very playful
Loyal and affectionate with owner
Good with children when socialised early
Average lifespan of 10-12 years

Cons Of Owning This Retriever

Highly energetic – requires a lot of exercise each day
Can act territorial towards strange dogs
Not as friendly with strangers as Golden or Labrador Retrievers
Can be very jumpy and exuberant when young
Likes to chew and carry objects – good in the field, but not so good in your home
Can become destructive when bored
Very independent – needs a confident owner who can take charge and demonstrate who’s boss

Grooming Advice

Chesapeake Bay Retrievers tend to shed seasonally twice a year, in the spring and the autumn. However, they need regular brushing to keep their coats in good condition and to keep on top of everyday lighter shedding. Brushing or combing can also help to prevent their short coat from matting.

Every 1-2 months, it’s important to clip your dog’s nails and clean their ears to help keep them in the best possible condition. It’s also recommended that you use an eye wash regularly.

Discover more retriever breeds in our gundog breed hub, and subscribe to Gundog Journal to stay in the know