Chesapeake Bay Retrievers were originally bred for retrieving waterfowl in the cold waters of the Chesapeake Bay.
Swimming Ability
They have oils in the hair that make them a superior retriever in cold water. They also have webbing between their toes. I have personally experienced them swimming behind my canoe for hours. Others have told me stories about how they figured they had lost their dog when it became a small speck way out in the cold, wet, water with heavy surf or strong currents. I’ve only heard of one dog drowning and that was from a medical condition. All others have eventually returned, usually with whatever they desired to retrieve.
Trainability
Although loyal and protective of their family, most Chesapeake’s form a special bond with their owner. Whoever feeds and spends the most time with them becomes their best buddy. While one can train a Labrador, often you must negotiate with a Chesapeake. After all, Chesapeake’s instinctively know how to retrieve and will do so in the way they think best. This is why many consider them to be stubborn, but they simply know how to think and problem solve on their own.
Protective Nature
Some Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, especially males, have earned a bad reputation due to their protective nature. For example, when several hunting buddies came to shore for a restroom break the male Chessie guarding the boat simply would not let the other hunters in the boat until the owner returned. Personally, I have found the males just as gentle and mild mannered as my females. I believe it has a lot to do with how they are raised and rather or not they realize who is in charge. Often, I will flip my males over on their backs and expose their bellies which is a display of submissiveness. If you are not willing to be in charge of your dog, please do not even consider owning a Chesapeake. If you do not insist on being in charge, many Chesapeakes will dominant you and anyone else that comes around.
AKC Rating
The AKC rates them lower in regards to interacting with children. We’ve had 10 children of our own and many grand children come and play at our farm. They love the dogs and the dogs love them. Some of the young dogs have to be taught not to retrieve the small children off the swings, sleds, or bikes but once they are trained that this is not acceptable, they are great with the kids. Our dogs love to sleep out with the kids in the summer and ferociously protect them all night long. I learned this once going out to check on the kids. I’m sure glad I knew their names so I could call out and let them know who I was. So, if you do not want a protective dog, do not get a Chesapeake.
Labrador Instead?
If you are now convinced a nice mellow lab might better meet your needs instead of a hard-headed Chesapeake check with our friends who we can highly recommend at Wynoochee Labradors.