The Chesapeake Bay Retriever, or, as some loving owners dotingly refer to it, the Chessie or Chessy Dog, is a hunting dog. It can retrieve small game and waterfowl in harsh snow, heavy rain, or through dense ice. They respond best to training that's based on rewards. They tend to have some negative characteristics in regards to other dogs, strangers, and training. For instance, it only recognizes one person as master. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever tends to think stubbornly, have a willful demeanor, and act dominant or aggressive around other dogs. Cat owners are happy to find that it does well with cats already living in the house. Regular cats out on the street should be careful because it will pursue them, however.
Despite similarities in appearance, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever is not akin to the ever-popular Labrador Retriever or Golden Retriever. The temperament is serious, subdued, emotional, quietly sanguine, cautious, and loyal. The Golden Retriever, on the other hand, is friendly toward all people, and it's always sporting a smile. Every purebred Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a ducking dog. They were made to retrieve the fallen waterfowl, especially ducks, of their masters. They're hybrids of Newfoundlands, Hounds, Setters, and Spaniels. The latter three breeds are all used for hunting. The dog enjoys nothing more than being present with its masters. Family activities should take the dog's participation seriously. It is fiercely devoted. They would much rather live indoors than chained up or stowed away outdoors. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers don't react much to other dogs. Their owners have trained them in a variety of capacities including the show dog circuit, therapy, hunting, and outdoor sports like Frisbee, Flyball, and companion jogging.
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is compelled to guard and watchfully protect its family, property, house cats, and territory. Once the Chessie becomes bonded to the family members, they can become emotionally wrecked by a negative word or sharp glance. The Chessie takes its owners seriously. They lose intelligence if they're not worked or exercised daily. Water retrieval and daily walks are fun for the dog. The latter is fewer burdens than the former. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever will get tired out and feel good after a session in the water. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever dog is not overtly friendly like its similar-looking neighbors, the Golden and Labrador. For that reason, its appearance should not be a purchase consideration. There are hundreds of purebred dogs, and temperament is a big factor over the years. Don't get a Chesapeake Bay Retriever if you want the dog to live outdoors, prefer not to train it, or want a dog with a laid-back demeanor. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers also have a propensity for the water, and they excel at tracking in dirt, mud, water, and debris onto the house's carpets and furniture.
