Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Group: Sporting
Lifespan: 10-12 Years
Pups per Litter: 7-8
Average Weight: 55-80 lbs.
Average Height: 21-26 inches
Exercise/Actvity Level: HIgh
Temperment with:
Children 
Other Dogs Other Animals
History
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever originated as the name suggests, in Chesapeake Bay. It is said that the Newfoundland Dog and the local retrievers from Chesapeake Bay were bred together, leading to a newly created breed and was named the Chesapeake Bay Retriever, which we know today. They were bred for hunting and are still used today for that purpose. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers will excel in hunting, tracking, obedience and retrieving trials.
Traits
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a loyal worker and friendly companion. They are smart, obedient dogs but can be dominant. This breed is not for an inexperienced owner as they will need quite a bit of knowledge on obedience training. They will also need to be socialized thoroughly with dogs and other animals as pups because they can become aggressive as adults. This breed resembles the Chocolate Labrador, but it is not to be confused with as they are two completely different dogs. The Chesapeake is more guarded with people and will need very firm training.
Appearance
Weighing in at 55-80 lbs (25-36 kgs) and averaging 21-26 inches high, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a stocky, solid breed. They have a medium length coat that is rippled, not straight. The coat comes in brown, dark tan and a red with white markings on the feet and chest. The coat is double layered, the outer layer is hard and the undercoat is softer and plush. This is needed for all sorts of weather conditions and temperatures. They have small sized floppy ears and big round, yellow eyes. The Chesapeake’s legs are muscular and their toes are webbed to enhance their swimming skills.
Health
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a healthy breed, only being prone to Hip Dysplasia and eye problems such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy and Cataracts. Some lines are prone to Von Willebrands Disease.
Training
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever will need an owner that is aware of this dogs temperament. They will need socialization as puppies with people, and other dogs as they can become aggressive as adults towards these if not done so. Firm, consistent and clear training will be needed and also an owner who can show this dog where it belongs in the family pack.
Care
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a low maintenance breed. They need to be brushed every couple of weeks and will need to be bathed according to the owners preference, but not more then once a month because their coat can dry out quickly,. It is the oils in the skin is what keeps this breed warm in cold temperatures.
Breed
This breed is categorized in the Sporting Group. They would do well in a house with a yard as they need the extra room to run around in. These dogs love to be active and prefer to be outdoors! The Chesapeake will need daily exercise or swimming if possible. The average lifespan of a Chesapeake Bay Retriever is around 10-12 years. They have on average 7-8 pups per litter. When obtaining a puppy Chesapeake Bay Retriever, keep in mind that every puppy is different and to research your breed before bringing the baby home!
Reference pages for Information:
http://puppydogweb.com/caninebreeds/retrvrcbay.htm Chesapeake Bay Retriever Information
http://www.akc.org/breeds/chesapeake_bay_retriever/ Chesapeake Bay Retriever ÁKC Standards
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/chesapeakebay.htm Chesapeake Bay Retriever Breed Information
http://www.cbrrescue.org Chesapeake Bay Retriever Rescue
http://www.amchessieclub.org Chesapeake Bay Retriever Club
