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.
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.
- Adult weight 55–80 lbs
- Height 21–26 in
- Lifespan 10–12 years
- Exercise 90 min a day
About the Chesapeake Bay Retriever
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a loyal and intelligent breed that has gained admiration for its remarkable versatility and warm personality. Originating in the Chesapeake Bay area of the United States, these large dogs were initially bred for retrieving waterfowl and have a history deeply rooted in companionship and working alongside humans. With a gentle yet playful demeanor, they are especially great with young kids and make excellent family pets. Their friendly nature extends to other dogs as well, ensuring they can happily share their space with canine companions.
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Chesapeakes are known for their moderate energy levels, which means they thrive with regular exercise but are not overly demanding. Daily walks, play sessions, or swimming are ideal for keeping these retrievers physically stimulated and mentally engaged. While they are not particularly suited for apartment living due to their size and need for movement, they can adapt to various homes as long as their exercise needs are met. Their affectionate nature means that they enjoy spending time with their families, often forming strong bonds with those they love.
Grooming a Chesapeake Bay Retriever is generally manageable, as they require only monthly grooming to keep their coat in top shape, but expect some shedding along the way. Their trainability is impressive, as they respond well to consistent and positive reinforcement training techniques. This ability combined with their intelligence makes them not just quick learners but also eager to please, which is perfect for families looking for a companion who is both fun and well-mannered. If you’re searching for a loving and loyal friend in Petland Lake St. Louis & Fenton, MO, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever might just be the perfect match for you and your family.
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
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Affection Very affectionate
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Playfulness Very playful
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With strangers Warms up
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Territorial Territorial
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Prey drive High
Family & other pets
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Young children Good
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Older children Excellent
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Other dogs Sociable
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Cats With introductions
Energy & exercise
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Energy High
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Mental stimulation High
Training
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Trainability Quick to learn
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Intelligence Very bright
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Stubbornness Stubborn
Care & upkeep
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Shedding Moderate
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Drooling Some
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Barking Occasional
Home life
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Apartment living Prefers a house
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Time alone A few hours
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Cold weather Comfortable
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Warm weather Comfortable
A good match for
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First-time owners Manageable
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Senior owners Suitable
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Running partner Excellent
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Hiking Excellent
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Therapy work Possible
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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
- Grooming
- Monthly brushing
- Grooming cost
- Low
- Monthly food
- Average
- Outdoor space
- A yard is recommended
- Allergy friendly
- Not 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.
