Origin
United States
Lifespan
10–13 years
Weight
25–36 kg
Height
53–66 cm
Personality
Colors & Patterns
Brown · Sedge · Deadgrass
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
About This Breed
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a powerful, athletic breed developed along the Chesapeake Bay for retrieving waterfowl in harsh conditions. Known for its waterproof double coat and keen intelligence, it is a tireless worker and devoted family dog.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Origin
| Origin | United States |
| Group | Sporting |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 25–36 kg |
| Lifespan | 10–13 years |
| Height | 53–66 cm |
| Colors & Patterns | Brown · Sedge · Deadgrass |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Loyal · Protective · Intelligent · Affectionate |
Usually active. Make time for play, exercise, and activities that keep it interested.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Regular brushing helps remove loose hair and prevent tangles.
Some shedding is expected, and it may change with the season.
Living together
A familiar routine can help it settle in.
Often gets along with children, but an adult should still supervise their time together.
Introduce other pets gradually and watch how each animal responds.
Training and activities
May learn quickly. Keep sessions varied and practice calmly around distractions.
Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
Breed Overview
Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, affectionately known as “Chessies,” are powerful dogs that allegedly trace their roots to an English shipwreck in the early 1800s. This state dog of Maryland was bred to help their humans hunt ducks and other birds along the iconic body of water for which the breed is named. These smart pups have a gorgeous coat and stand 21–26 inches tall, weighing 55–80 pounds. Caring for a Chesapeake Bay Retriever Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are high-energy working dogs best suited for long days hunting waterfowl near iced-over bodies of water.
Care Guide
Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are high-energy working dogs best suited for long days hunting waterfowl near iced-over bodies of water. They are relatively low-maintenance outside of needing regular brushing, but pet parents should be dedicated to providing constant exercise and stimulation.