The Chesapeake Bay Retriever Dog

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever dog is believed to have originated from two Newfoundlands that were on board on an English ship that was wrecked off the Maryland coast in the winter of 1807. The two dogs were later mated with other local retrievers which include Curly-Coated Retrievers, Flat-Coated Retrievers and English Otter Hounds. Careful breeding of the dogs through the years was able to to create an outstanding retriever that has an incredible enthusiasm and endurance. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever dog was used to hunt waterfowl in the waters of Chesapeake Bay. This dog breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1878.
    
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever dog is a powerful and muscular dog. The head of this dog is somehow broad with a medium stop. Its muzzle has the same length as its skull and is tapered but not to a point. Eye colors vary from yellowish to amber. The small ears of this dog are high set and hanging loosely. Its lips are thin while its tail is medium in length and is heavy at the base. Coat colors can be brown, red, sedge or tan. Sometimes a small white spot can be seen on the breast, back of the feet, belly or toes.

These dogs are intelligent, obedient and brave. They are very trainable and very willing to please its owners, although sometimes they may be somewhat slow to learn. These dogs are friendly, affectionate, loving, and very good with children. They are very fond of swimming and retrieving. This breed can get along with cats of its master, but may chase other cats. This dog is not recommended for a beginning owner. The owner must be confident and must exert a natural authority over this dog breed. To handle this dog, the owner must exert a firm and consistent but kind approach.

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever dog does not do well as apartment pets as it prefers the outdoors like a yard where it is cooler to sleep and where it can be active. These dogs want plenty of activity which includes swimming, walking or jogging. If they get bored, they may tend to misbehave.

Its dense, harsh and short-haired coat is oily and has a distinct smell but is easy to groom. Brushing is recommended to remove the dead hairs. Some occasional bath is needed to prevent any odor, but not too often that the oily texture of its coat is stripped out. Its oily coat protects it from icy waters. This dog breed has a life expectancy of about 10-12 years.