The CHESAPEAKE BAY RETRIEVER

HISTORY  -  In 1807 a pair of Newfoundland puppies were rescued from a sinking British ship off the coast of Maryland. These pups were named Sailor and Canton and proved to be splendid duck retrievers. They were crossed with other unknown breeds in the region to produce the Chesapeake Bay Retriever we know today. The breed is a remarkable retriever and was used on Chesapeake Bay around 1880. They are one of the greatest of all water retrievers and one of the hardiest. They have a distinctive hair coat which resists water in the same way the feathers on a duck do. Oil in the harsh outer coat and a woolly undercoat prevent the cold and icy water from reaching the dog's skin.

APPEARANCE:
Size: 23-26 inches (males) and 21-24 inches (females)      

Weight: 65-80 lb. (males) and 55-70 lb. (females)

Color: Dark brown to tan, deadgrass, ideally as similar to its working surroundings as possible for camouflage; solid colors are preferred, but white spots on chest, belly and toes accepted.

Eyes: Medium, large, very clear, yellowish or amber and set wide apart.

Ears: Small, high-set ears.

Body Structure: A well-proportioned body and broad, round skull with medium length muzzle. A natural tail used as a rudder. It should appear bright, happy and intelligent.

Hair Coat: A double coat with a thick, outer coat and fine, woolly undercoat. The coat is wavy in places but should not be curly.

CONSIDERATIONS:
The Chesapeake Bay Retrievers have a tendency to be hard-headed and must be trained properly to mind their masters. Because of their intelligence, they can easily run the show. They do shed in the spring and summer and should be groomed or brushed regularly.