When a British ship was wrecked off the coast of Maryland in 1807, two of the survivors, a pair of Newfoundland dogs, swam ashore and helped found a new breed of dog. The Newfs, Sailor and Canton, bred with local sporting dogs including setters, pointers, and spaniels, and the Chesapeake Bay Retriever evolved. 

The Chessie is a powerful and tireless swimmer and duck retriever. He hunts all types of waterfowl and also makes an excellent guard and watch dog.

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever stands up to 26 inches at the shoulder. Capable of swimming for hours in frigid waters, the Chessie can dry his coat with one vigorous shake! He has a thick, short, oily coat with a dense undercoat that is almost waterproof. It varies in colour from dark brown to "dead grass" (faded tan). The Chessie "blows coat" twice a year, a process that generally takes about 3 weeks. Except during this time, grooming is minimal. 

A strong, territorial dog, the Chessie is not a good choice for an inexperienced dog owner. His owner must be an equally strong and consistent leader capable of firm training and good management. He will coexist with other dogs but he will dominate them. As far as the family goes, the Chessie is affectionate, devoted, responsive, and particularly fond of children - probably because they have the energy to keep up with him!

A highly intelligent dog, the Chessie learns fast and once he does, he's not willing to "break the rules" by doing something he was taught not to do! 

Best in an active household, the Chessie needs lots of exercise and activity including swimming. As with all retrievers, he will retrieve sticks or balls from the water all day long!