Chesapeake Bay Retriever
America's state dog of Maryland. Tougher and more independent than the Lab.
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever ("Chessie") was developed in 19th-century Maryland to retrieve ducks from the icy Chesapeake Bay โ 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 โ water-repellent. Weekly brush.
Common health issues
Hip and elbow dysplasia. PRA. Bloat / GDV.
๐ Best for
Active families, water-loving homes, hunters.
๐ Not best for
First-time owners. Multi-dog same-sex homes.
