--- title: "Chesapeake Bay Retriever" id: "191592" type: "breeds" slug: "chesapeake-bay-retriever" published_at: "2022-10-26T01:11:32+00:00" modified_at: "2026-10-17T04:25:25+00:00" url: "https://jaxpetland.com/breed/chesapeake-bay-retriever/" markdown_url: "https://jaxpetland.com/breed/chesapeake-bay-retriever.md" excerpt: "The Chesapeake Bay Retriever, often affectionately called the “Chessie,” is a distinguished breed recognized for its rich history as a waterfowl retriever. Originating from the Chesapeake Bay area in the early 19th century, these dogs were bred to navigate the..." taxonomy_breed_group: - "Sporting Group" taxonomy_breed_size: - "Large" --- [Back to Breeds](https://jaxpetland.com/breed/) Large breed # Chesapeake Bay Retriever Puppies The Chesapeake is one fine dog breed. It has a remarkable coat and the ability to Lord over your home if given the chance. They are reputable gundogs who can keep you company both inside and outside your home. They are in the class of the best retrievers as they can hunt tirelessly. Petland is honored to offer first-class Chesapeake Bay Retriever puppies, and our caring team of puppy specialists will help answer any questions you may have. - Great with kids - Active breed - Alert watchdog - Protective [Ask about Chesapeake Bay Retriever puppies](#pb-ask) We do not have Chesapeake Bay Retriever puppies on the floor today. Tell us what you are looking for and we will let you know the moment one arrives, or help you find a breed that suits your home just as well. - Exercise 60 min a day ![Chesapeake-Bay-Retriever](https://jaxpetland.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/chesapeake-bay-retriever-1-600x600.jpg) Share[https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fjaxpetland.com%2Fbreed%2Fchesapeake-bay-retriever%2F](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fjaxpetland.com%2Fbreed%2Fchesapeake-bay-retriever%2F) [https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fjaxpetland.com%2Fbreed%2Fchesapeake-bay-retriever%2F&description=Chesapeake%20Bay%20Retriever%20puppies](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fjaxpetland.com%2Fbreed%2Fchesapeake-bay-retriever%2F&description=Chesapeake%20Bay%20Retriever%20puppies) ## About the Chesapeake Bay Retriever [Stay connected via Google News Follow us for the latest pet updates and guides.](https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=jaxpetland.com) The Chesapeake Bay Retriever, often affectionately called the “Chessie,” is a distinguished breed recognized for its rich history as a waterfowl retriever. Originating from the Chesapeake Bay area in the early 19th century, these dogs were bred to navigate the challenging waters and harsh weather while assisting hunters. Their strong, resilient demeanor and unwavering loyalty make them a delightful addition to any family. If you’re looking for a dog that can keep up with your active lifestyle, the Chessie is ready to jump in. Read more about the Chesapeake Bay Retriever Show less With a temperament that is both affectionate and protective, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are incredibly family-oriented. They bond deeply with their human companions and get along well with children, making them a great fit for families with young kids. They also have a friendly disposition towards other dogs, showcasing their social nature. While they can be a bit reserved around unfamiliar faces, their loyalty to their family shines through, and with proper training, you will find them to be well-mannered and sensible. Exercise is essential for the Chesapeake, as they thrive on physical activity and mental stimulation. Regular walks, playtime, and swimming are perfect for keeping them happy and healthy. Weekly grooming helps control their shedding, ensuring that your home remains comfortable. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them highly trainable, allowing them to learn commands and tricks with ease. If you’re considering adding a Chesapeake Bay Retriever to your family, particularly in Petland Jacksonville, Florida, you can expect a loving companion who is ready to support you in countless adventures. [Stay connected via Google News Follow us for the latest pet updates and guides.](https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=jaxpetland.com) ## Chesapeake Bay Retriever breed profile Every score below is set by our team for this breed. Higher is simply more of that trait, not better or worse. ### Temperament - Affection Very affectionate - Playfulness Very playful - With strangers Warms up - Territorial Territorial - Prey drive High ### Family & other pets - Young children Good - Older children Excellent - Other dogs Sociable - Cats With introductions ### Energy & exercise - Energy High - Mental stimulation High ### Training - Trainability Quick to learn - Intelligence Very bright - Stubbornness A stubborn streak ### Care & upkeep - Shedding Heavy - Drooling Some - Barking Moderate ### Home life - Apartment living Prefers a house - Time alone Most of a day - Cold weather Comfortable - Warm weather Average ### A good match for - First-time owners Manageable - Senior owners Suitable - Running partner Excellent - Hiking Excellent - Therapy work Possible - Guarding Protective ## Living with a Chesapeake Bay Retriever ### History of Breed The Chesapeake Bay Retriever was developed along the Chesapeake Bay and named the state dog of Maryland. This breed is an American sporting breed and a top water retriever. In 1807, an English brig shipwrecked off the coast of Maryland, and two Newfoundlands were rescued from the cargo. When bred to local retrievers, including the English Otter Hound, Flat-Coat, and Curly-Coated Retriever, the "Chessie" type developed. ### Personality and Temperament The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a very outgoing and curious dog. They enjoy spending time, especially outdoors, around their family and seek your attention. They are very warm and approachable dogs with an easy-going and loving demeanor. This breed is known to do well with other pets in the household. ### Appearance and Grooming Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are low-maintenance dogs that do not need a lot of grooming. Brushing this pup a few days a week and bathing him every four to six weeks will help make him look and feel his best. Brushing helps to distribute the natural oil in their coat, keep your "Chessie" cleaner, and keep shedding very manageable. It is also important to make sure you clip his nails on a routine basis. ### Care and Feeding Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are moderately active dogs and do need sufficient amounts of energy to feel their best. The correct ratio of meat-based protein and micronutrients, as well as healthy carbs and fats, will keep this breed healthy. Many Chesapeake Bay Retrievers owners recommend feeding this dog two meals a day, spaced about twelve hours apart. It is also very important to remember to provide your dog with proper dental care. It is suggested that his teeth get cleaned a minimum of three times a week. Failing to keep his teeth clean can contribute to health issues. ### Breed Size and Life Expectancy This breed stands between twenty-one to twenty-six inches tall. This breed weighs between fifty-five to eighty pounds. The average life expectancy for this breed is between ten to thirteen years. ### Breed Facts **Fact:** This breed has webbed feet, which is one of the reasons he does well in the water. **Fact:** This breed is the official state dog of Maryland. **Fact:** This breed loves to play outside and does well with families who enjoy outdoor activity time. ## Caring for a Chesapeake Bay Retriever GroomingWeekly brushing Grooming costLow Monthly foodAverage Outdoor spaceA yard is recommended Allergy friendlyNot considered hypoallergenic ## Chesapeake Bay Retriever Video ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What health challenges does a Chesapeake have? The Chesapeake is more prone to the following, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, melanoma, hip dysplasia, epilepsy, entropion, ear infections, bloat. ### Are Chesapeakes easy to train? Not really. They have a mind of their own which is why people feel they are stubborn. But once they understand the command, they are likely to obey. ### Are Chesapeakes good watchdogs? Yes, they are. They are very quick to let you know when they see something or hear something they do not understand or even strangers. ### Do Chesapeake Retrievers like water? It would be like keeping a fish out of the water and this is almost impossible. They love to get their feet wet and it would be relatively difficult to keep them out. They, however, cannot get out of the water on their own, so you should be on the lookout. ### Do Chesapeakes bark excessively? No. They only bark when they feel it’s necessary or to alert their owner. ### Do Chesapeakes do well when left alone? No. They will begin to have separation anxiety and this is not healthy. They are more suited to people who work from home. ### Do Chesapeakes adapt easily? They can only adapt to people who spend the most time outdoors. They cannot live in apartments. ### Are Chesapeakes playful? Yes, they are. They do a lot of canine sports and will want to entertain. ### Do Chesapeakes have prey drive? Yes. They have a high prey drive and this should be watched so they don’t chase the cat around. ### Are they suitable for first-time owners? No. They need to be around people who understand their needs and the fact that they are high energy dogs. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a dog breed that is suitable for those who live in the country and love to spend a lot of time outdoors. ## Similar Breeds ![American-Water-Spaniel](https://jaxpetland.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/american-water-spaniel-1-300x300.jpg) ### [American Water Spaniel](https://jaxpetland.com/breed/american-water-spaniel/) ![Brittany-Spaniel](https://jaxpetland.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/brittany-1-300x300.jpg) ### [Brittany](https://jaxpetland.com/breed/brittany/) ![Cocker-Spaniel](https://jaxpetland.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/cocker-spaniel-1-300x300.jpg) ### [Cocker Spaniel](https://jaxpetland.com/breed/cocker-spaniel/) ![curly-coated-retriever](https://jaxpetland.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/curly-coated-retriever-1-300x300.jpg) ### [Curly-Coated Retriever](https://jaxpetland.com/breed/curly-coated-retriever/) ## Ready to Meet Them? Call us to check current availability or to arrange a visit with a Chesapeake Bay Retriever. - [Jacksonville, FL 904-330-0152](tel:9043300152) ## Ask About Chesapeake Bay Retriever Puppies Our pet counselors are ready to help you find your new best friend. "*" indicates required fields