Chesapeake Bay Retriever
America's state dog of Maryland. Tougher and more independent than the Lab.
Photo: Gundula Vogel / Pexels
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever ("Chessie") was developed in 19th-century Maryland to retrieve ducks from the icy Chesapeake Bay — sometimes 200+ in a single day. Tougher, more independent and more protective than the Lab or Golden.
Temperament
Bright, devoted, sometimes aloof with strangers, can be dog-reactive.
Exercise needs
90 minutes daily, ideally including swimming.
Grooming
Oily wavy double coat — water-repellent. Weekly brush.
Common health issues
Hip and elbow dysplasia. PRA. Bloat / GDV.
👍 Best for
Active families, water-loving homes, hunters.
👎 Not best for
First-time owners. Multi-dog same-sex homes.
Buying guides for Chesapeake Bay Retriever owners
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Buying guides for Chesapeake Bay Retriever owners
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