Where the Chesapeake Bay Retriever came from
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever was developed around Chesapeake Bay in Maryland. One account says it began after a shipwreck in 1807, when two Newfoundland type puppies were rescued off the coast of Maryland.
Local hunters crossed these dogs with local dogs. They wanted a tough dog that could retrieve ducks in cold, rough water for long days.
The AKC lists the breed among its first, in 1878. In 1964, Maryland named it the state dog.
- 1807 Two Newfoundland type puppies are said to be rescued from a shipwreck near Maryland
- 1878 AKC lists the Chesapeake Bay Retriever among its first breeds
- 1964 Maryland names the breed its state dog
The job a Chesapeake Bay Retriever was bred for
The dogs retrieved ducks from icy water, often breaking ice and working all day. That shaped a dog with a strong will, a love of water and a protective side at home.
Sports that fit a Chesapeake Bay Retriever
- Field work. Hunt tests
- Dock diving. Natural swimmers
- Scent work. Strong nose
- Obedience. Loyal and capable
Training tips for a Chesapeake Bay Retriever
- Use positive, fair training, since many are strong willed.
- Socialize early with people and dogs.
- Use retrieving games as rewards.
- Teach calm manners at the door and in public.
Body and health
Prone to hip problems. Avoid heat exertion, and warm up joints before hard work.
Fun fact. The Chesapeake's coat has an oily feel that helps it shed water.
Breed is where we start
A study of more than 18,000 dogs found breed explains only about 9 percent of the differences in behavior between dogs (Morrill and others, Science, 2022). So your Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a starting guess, not a label. We find the drive your dog actually runs on, give it a job, and teach you to read them.
Looking for a different breed? See what 75 breeds were bred to do.