General Decription: Athletic and muscular dog with a tight, dense and completely water resistant coat Height: 53 – 66 cm Weight: 25 - 35 kg Colour: Dark tan, brown Retriever group Temperament The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a friendly, intelligent and obedient dog, though they tend to have a mind of their own. This breed can be difficult to train and are not recommended for inexperienced dog owners. The handler needs to be confident because these dogs like to have their own way. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is courageous, loving and a keen worker. They love to swim and retrieve. Although the Chesapeake Bay Retriever will get along with cats that are already living in the house, they can be aggressive towards other dogs. Exercise Chesapeake Bay Retrievers require regular vigorous exercise. A twice daily walk/run/swim for around 40 – 50 minutes is sufficient. No encouragement is required to get the Chesapeake Bay Retriever into the water. Grooming A weekly groom with a firm bristle brush is recommended. Only bath when necessary as bathing with destroy the natural waterproofing of the coat. Health Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are generally of very good health but some can be prone to hip dysplasia and eye diseases. Life Expectancy 10 – 12 years History The Chesapeake Bay Retriever was developed in the USA. A pair of Newfoundland puppies found on an English shipwreck just off the coast of Maryland were given to a local family. They were later mated with local retrievers. Careful breeding over the years has created an excellent retriever with incredible enthusiasm and stamina.