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Breed

About This Breed

Dog Group: Sporting
Size: 21-26 inches tall, 55-80 lbs
Lifespan: 10-13 years
Energy Level: High
Coat: Short, thick outer coat with a dense, woolly undercoat
Shedding: Heavy
Hypoallergenic: No

History: The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is one of the few breeds that originated in the United States, and it has an interesting history. In 1807, a crew of Americans rescued an English brig that had shipwrecked off the coast of Maryland. Among the rescued were two Newfoundland dogs, one male and one female, who later proved to be excellent water retrievers. As the popularity of these pups grew, some locals began bringing their retrievers to be bred with them. Gradually, the offspring began to form a distinct breed, the "Chesapeake Bay Ducking Dog." By 1885, the breed had become established enough that it was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) shortly after its formation.

Temperament: Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are known for their tenacity, intelligence, and strong work ethic, making them very effective guard dogs. When at home, these dogs tend to be relatively calm and relaxed, but very active and energetic once they're outdoors. Chessies need a firm hand when it comes to leadership, as they can be stubborn and strong-willed at times. That said, they're not a breed of choice for novice or timid owners. Unlike other Retrievers, the Chessie is reserved around strangers and other dogs, but may be more friendly with proper socialization. With family, however, these dogs are very affectionate, loyal, and playful.