Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are the state dog of Maryland (so named in 1964) and the mascot of the University of Maryland. History This breed originated along the Chesapeake Bay, after a shipwreck in 1807. From the wreck, two Newfoundlands (a male named Sailor and a female named Canton) were rescued. These dogs were bred to local retrievers, such as the English Otter Hound, the Curly-Coated Retreiver, and the Flat-Coated Retriever. The resulting dog was the Chesapeake Bay Retriever, also known as the Chessie. These dogs were used as waterfowl hunters and retrievers. Their thick coats and extreme endurance allowed them to retrieve birds from the icy, rough waters in the region, and they could retrieve over one hundred birds per day, making them very useful to hunters. In fact, these dogs were bred to be so tough that they could break through ice if need be. Appearance Chesapeake Bay Retrievers have a unique look. They are well known for their bright yellow or amber eyes, which are much lighter than other retriever breeds. Ears are medium-sized and hang loosely down by the face, framing it. The broad skull looks powerful, and the expression is usually intelligent and alert. A Chesapeake Bay Retriever usually has a well muscled, powerful body, since it needs to be tough enough to handle rough conditions. The chest is deep, the tail is long and straight, and the rib cage is deep enough to house large lungs. At the withers, males usually measure between twenty-three and twenty-six inches tall; females are slightly smaller and usually reach between twenty-one and twenty-four inches tall. The torso is usually a little longer than the dog is tall, giving them a slight "long and lean"� appearance, though this doesn't diminish the dog's powerful look. Average weight for males is between sixty-five and eighty pounds. Average weight for females is between fifty-five and seventy pounds. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers have double layered coats. The undercoat is dense, as is the outer coat, and the fur is short, never more than 1.5 inches long. Fur may be slightly wavy, especially on the shoulders, back, neck, and loins; it is mostly straight everywhere else on the body. As for texture, while the undercoat may be wooly, the outer coat is harsh. This is necessary to protect the dog from icy waters and harsh conditions when it is hunting. Coat color is usually earth-toned to match the surroundings when hunting. Shades of bown, deadgrass, or sedge are normal, as are other earthy shades. White spots on the chest, toes, or underbelly are acceptable. Temperament Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, like other retrievers, are often very happy, excitable dogs. They can be very intelligent. They have a natural affinity for water and talent for swimming. As gun dogs, they can't be shy; rather, they are often outgoing and affectionate. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers can be very loving and protective of their families. They are also courageous, determined, and dedicated to their work, especially when hunting. This breed should always be alert, never shy or aggressive. Pet Care These pets do best when they are around water. Active owners who can take them swimming or play fetch with them in the water are best for this dog. At the very least, the breed needs daily exercise in the form of walks or runs. Grooming is required on a regular basis to maintain the coat. Brushing spreads natural oils from the undercoat and outer coat so that the dog is protected when in the water. Obedience training should be started at an early age, as should socialization. Health Issues Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are usually healthy, though they do suffer from some hereditary diseases. The most common ailments are Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), hip dysplasia, cataracts, Alopecia (hair loss), and type 3 von Willebrand disease. What Owners Have to Say Most owners love this dog for its intelligence and cheery demeanor. It is also the favorite dog of hunters, especially those that hunt waterfowl. Is this breed right for you? If you love retrievers and wish to have a rugged dog, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever is definitely for you. As the toughest of the six retriever breeds, it is definitely a rough-and-tumble type of dog. A Chesapeake Bay Retriever also has a unique look when compared to other retrievers because of its tough, sometimes wavy coat. An owner who loves being outdoors will be the perfect match for this dog, especially if they live near a lake or other body of water. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are very dependable and loyal, and they have a slightly calmer attitude than other retrievers. Golden Retrievers and Labradors are generally more excitable. These dogs are also better watchdogs. While a Golden Retriever will likely welcome any stranger into the home, a Chesapeake Bay Retriever is more reserved. However, there are some downsides to owning this breed. For starters, it is still a very energetic dog. Without proper exercise, it will become destructive. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers will find an outlet for their energy if their owner doesn't provide one, even if that outlet is chewing on the couch. This breed is strong-willed, so owners need to be confident and firm. Also, this breed can be territorial around strange animals, so supervision is required when introducing a new pet into the home. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, like all retriever breeds, are very mouthy. When they don't have something to retrieve, they find something to put in your mouth like one of your shoes. They won't necessarily destroy these objects, but be prepared to clean slobber off of your shoes and smaller items. Health problems are another issue, and vet bills can be high. Check into the background of your puppy's mother and father before purchasing. The final concern of most dog owners is the high level of shedding, which requires constant cleanup. Take all of this into consideration before buying one of these dogs. If you do, you'll likely choose the right pet for you.

Back to iAnimals.com home page Copyright Notice: This website is © . All Rights Reserved.  Click Here to contact us. Link Partners: Animals Go to Heaven | Adopt Me | Salt And Pepper | Singing Animals | Animal Noises