Chesapeake
Bay Retriever
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 Description:
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever claims an adventurous
and somewhat mysterious history. In 1807, two
Newfoundlands were rescued off the coast of Maryland
after a shipwreck. The black male and brown female
were both excellent water dogs and were later
mated. These pups were most likely crossed with
other local sporting breeds such as the Coonhound,
the English Water Poodle, and the Curly and Flat-Coated
Retrievers. What emerged was an able rough-water
dog with excellent retrieving instincts. His coat,
in particular, is unique in that it can withstand
icy-cold water yet remain dry underneath; sportsmen
claim a quick shake is all it takes to shed any
remaining water and ice. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever
was officially recognized by the American Kennel
Club in 1873 and in 1892 in Canada. The "Chessie"
enjoys country life over city life and needs plenty
of outdoor activity.
Height: The
height of a Chesapeake Bay Retriever is between
23 - 26" (58.4 - 58.4cm) for dogs, 21 - 24"
(53.3 - 53.3cm) for bitches
Weight: The
weight of a Chesapeake Bay Retriever is between
65 - 75 lbs (29 - 29 kg) for dogs, 55 - 65 lbs
(24.6 - 24.6 kg) for bitches
Coat Type: The
Chesapeake Bay Retriever's water-repellent coat
is oily, straight and short; there is a thick,
downy undercoat.
Color:The colors
of the Chesapeake Bay Retriever's coat may be
brown, tan or "deadgrass." Grooming
needs are minimal.
Temperament:
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is courageous, hard-working,
and extremely loyal to its family.
Health Problems:
Some of the hereditary diseases the Chesapeake
Bay Retriever is prone to include hip dysplasia,
progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), cataracts and
von Willebrand disease type 3. The average life
span of a Chesapeake Bay Retriever is 10 - 13
years.
Special Interest:
Although the breed does not have many followers,
and is neither popular at shows nor championed
in field trials, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever
has received several honorary awards for saving
many children from drowning. The Chesapeake Bay
Retriever is called 'Chessie' for short
Classifications:
AKC: Group 1 - Sporting Dogs
ANKC: Group 3 - Gundogs
CKC: Group 1 - Sporting Dogs
FCI: Group 8 Section 1 Retrievers
KC: Sporting - Gundog Group
NZKC: Gundog
UKC: Gun Dog
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