Cheapeake Bay Retriever
Description
The origin of the Chesapeake Bay Retriever can be traced back to two Newfoundland pups rescued by George Law from a floundering ship off the coast of Maryland in 1807. The pups rescuer named the male pup Sailor and the female was named Canton, and he gifted them to two families in Maryland. The dogs bred with local retrievers and the end result is the Chesapeake Bay Retriever. Male Chessies stand between 23 and 26 in. tall and weigh between 65 and 80 lbs. Females stand between 21 and 24 in. tall and weigh between 55 and 70 lbs. Chessie’s coat is double thick with the outer coat being a bit course, and the insulating coat rather woolly. Both coats are naturally oily. Chessies comes in a straw color or dark brown with a red tone to it and all the shades in between. Some white on the chest and toes is permitted. The Chessies eyes are clear and bright and yellowish or amber blue.
Temperament
With Chessie their temperament depends a great deal with their parentage. Generally if the parents have a good temperament so will your pup. For the most part however Chessies have a warm and friendly disposition. They are very smart, and eager to please. With a lot of socialization early on they will make a good family dog, and will get along with the kids and the families other pets. You will need to be a patient, but firm pack leader when teaching and training your Chessie, so he doesn’t develop any behavioural issues.
Grooming/Exercise
The Chessie’s thick coat will need a good brushing with a stiff bristled brush to help keep the coat in good condition, and to remove any dead hairs. You should only bath the Chessie when absolutely necessary so you don’t damage the coat by stripping out the natural oils. He will need a good deal of exercise, and would make wonderful jogging partner for the right owner. They also need someplace to run and play. These guys aren’t going to be happy living in an apartment or townhouse needing a good sized yard to play in.
Health
Life Expectancy is about 10 to 12 years
Possible Issues
- Eye Problems
- Hip Dysplasia
