Chessies 101

Sporting group

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a powerful dog who forms a strong bond with their people. They're quick to learn and eager to please but can have their own ideas on how to accomplish tasks. Less lovey-dovey than the average Golden and more protective than the Labrador, the Chessie is a popular dog for duck hunters.

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A determined dog who'll happily break ice to swim

Energy level

75% energy level

Energy level: 75% (High)

Bark level

  • Very vocal
  • As needed

Bark level: Talkative. This breed vocalizes regularly but not excessively

Size

21 to 26 inches tall
Large breed size

Size: 21 to 26 inches tall. This is a Large sized Dog.

Lifespan

10 to 13 years

Lifespan: 10 to 13 years average

Weight

55 to 80 lbs

Weight: 55 to 80 lbs typical range

Breed Group
Sporting group
Energy level
High (75%)
Bark level
Talkative
Height
21 to 26 inches
Lifespan
10 to 13 years
Weight
55 to 80 lbs

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever stands 21 to 26 inches tall and weighs 55 to 80 lbs. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers have a lifespan of 10 to 13 years. They are known for a high (75%) energy level and a talkative bark.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big do Chesapeake Bay Retrievers get?
Chesapeake Bay Retrievers stand 21 to 26 inches tall and typically weigh between 55 and 80 pounds.
How long do Chesapeake Bay Retrievers live?
The average lifespan of a Chesapeake Bay Retriever is 10 to 13 years.
Are Chesapeake Bay Retrievers good for first-time dog owners?
Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are intelligent but have high energy. They do best with experienced owners who can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Do Chesapeake Bay Retrievers bark a lot?
Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are considered talkative — they bark more than average but are not excessively vocal.

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Mature adult Chessie

5 years to 7 years

Risk level for common Chessie conditions

Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

Hypothyroid disease

Seizures

Senior Chessie

8+ years

Risk level for common Chessie conditions

Arthritis

Hypothyroid disease

Kidney failure

Chessie puppy

0 to 1 year

Risk level for common Chessie conditions

Conjunctivitis

Gastroenteritis

Urinary tract infection

Young adult Chessie

1 year to 4 years

Risk level for common Chessie conditions

Ear infection

Foreign body ingestion

Trauma

Mature adult Chessie

5 years to 7 years

Risk level for common Chessie conditions

Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

Hypothyroid disease

Seizures

Senior Chessie

8+ years

Risk level for common Chessie conditions

Arthritis

Hypothyroid disease

Kidney failure

Chessie puppy

0 to 1 year

Risk level for common Chessie conditions

Conjunctivitis

Gastroenteritis

Urinary tract infection

Young adult Chessie

1 year to 4 years

Risk level for common Chessie conditions

Ear infection

Foreign body ingestion

Trauma

2-Chesapeake Bay retriever sitting up GettyImages-162285557

Nationwide can help you save on your Chesapeake Bay Retriever's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.

3-Fun fact-Chesapeake Bay retriever GettyImages-465489365

Before being called the Chesapeake Bay Retriever, this dog was known as the Brown Winchester.

Chesapeake Bay Retriever coat care and colors

While retrievers tend to have dense, water-repellent coats, the Chessie's is also a bit oily. The coat is also thick with a softer undercoat. A weekly brushing will reduce shedding. Acclimate to nail trims early to avoid struggles later on.

Chessie exercise & training

Exercise level

Exercise level

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever was developed to hunt all day in every imaginable condition. This is a breed that needs lots of exercise, preferably daily.

Trainability

Trainability

A smart, hard-working dog, the Chessie prefers partnership and respect. Although most other retriever breeds are pretty tolerant of other dogs, this may not be the case with the Chesapeake. Early socialization and positive training along with regular, strenuous exercise will get the best results. Acclimate to nail trims early to avoid future struggles.

Chessie fun facts

Top girl names for Chessies

100%

of Chessies are female

0%

of Chessies are male

Top boy names for Chessies

Nationwide loves Chesapeake Bay Retrievers of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like Chessies

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