|
|
 |
|
|
|
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Chesapeake is fortunate, at this point, in that it has not
been split between show and field,as has happened with the
more popular retriever breeds. To some extent this is
probably due to its being one of the more rare retriever
breeds, with Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers far
surpassing the Chesapeake, in litters registered annually
with the CKC/AKC,
|
|
|
|
|
|
Characteristics & Temperment:
|
|
|
|
|
|
The "Chessies" personality differs from that of any other retriever. They are 'NOT LIKE' a lab or a
golden in any way. They are very much their own breed with their own unique characteristics. They
are a talented and driven dog, intensely loyal with a strong protective streak.
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is first and foremost a superb hunting dog and well known for their
love of water. They are credited with excellent noses, accurate marking abilities and perseverance
in finding fallen game, in particular going after crippled birds first, then the dead ones.
These sensitive and perceptive retrievers are very deeply devoted to and protective, sometimes to
the point of possessive, of their family. They especially love "their" children and there are many
stories of chessies saving children from drowning. When you are fortunate to share life with a
chessie you become his. Chessie loyalty cannot be explained accurately, until you have been
privileged to be part of one's life. Then you understand completely the depth of their love and loyalty
to family. Once you have shared life with one, you will always want one of these incredible dogs in
your life. Their excellent temperments along with their deep devotion make them a very personable
companion.
In public, the chessie is generally reserved and confident with deference to his owner, while politely
ignoring outsiders. The Chesapeake demands respect and gives it back accordingly, making them a
bit frustrating to train (at times), for some people who consider them to be "just another dog".
|
|
|
|
COAT: The Chesapeake coat should be harsh and crisp, with an undercoat. A correct coat will be
only mildly damp after the dog shakes, when coming out of the water. They require very little
grooming in order to keep their coat in good condition. Brushing weekly, using a soft or rubber
brush is about all they need. This helps to distribute the natural oils evenly throughout the coat. Also,
a pin (slicker) brush, when they are shedding, helps to remove any dead hair.
Chesapeakes have a natural oil to their coat, which helps to protect them, when swimming, from the
cold water. Although there can be a slight smell to them, it is not strong or offensive. If the chessie
swims throughout the summer, there is no need for a bath. However, if they are in the house
through the winter, one bath may be needed. Do not overbath as their natural oils will be washed
away and hair will become dry, also skin problems may start.
|
|
|
|
TRAINING: They train most easily with a steady, firm, consistent voice and do best if welcomed
into and made part of the family. One thing to keep in mind while training, is that Chesapeakes are
very intelligent thinkers and sometimes become quite bored with pointless (to them) repetition. Thus
their "talent" for sometimes doing things their own way. Anyone training a chessie must work with
this or ultimately become frustrated. Because they are thinkers, not just do "ers" abuse of any sort
will only make them lose respect for you. Once that is lost, you could find yourself with a handful or
two!!
|
|
|
 |
|
|
You can order a Lab;
You can ask a Golden, However
You MUST negotiate with a Chesapeake
CONTACT US
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mallardsway Chesapeake Bay Retrievers
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
