Additional information (Wiki):The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a breed of dog belonging to the Retriever, Gundog, and Sporting breed groups. Members of the breed may also be referred to as a Chessie, CBR, or Chesapeake. The breed was developed in the United States Chesapeake Bay area during the 1800’s. Historically used by area market hunters to retrieve waterfowl, it is primarily a family pet and hunting companion. It is a medium to large sized dog, similar in appearance to the Labrador Retriever. They are aptly described as having a bright and happy disposition, courage, willingness to work, alertness, intelligence, and love of water as some of their characteristics.

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is valued for its bright and happy disposition, intelligence, quiet good sense, and affectionate protective nature. Some of them can be quite vocal when happy, and some will 'smile' by baring their front teeth in a peculiar grin - this is not a threat but a sign of joy or submissiveness.

Temperament can be an inherited trait. Selecting a puppy from parents with good temperaments is advised.

Like other dogs, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers can make excellent family dogs when socialized properly. Chesapeakes can be more assertive and willful and may be reserved with strangers while others are passive and outgoing with people. It simply depends on the personality of the dog.

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a versatile breed competing in field trials, hunt tests, conformation, obedience, agility and tracking, yet remains true to its roots as a hunting dog of great stamina and ability. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is an intelligent breed and learns at a high speed. Historically considered stubborn and difficult to train, many trainers thought this breed required more physical discipline than other retriever breeds. Some trainers now recommend that the Chesapeake Bay Retriever owner use consistent, daily obedience training with play time before and after to keep the dog wanting to work with little or no physical discipline required.