Fetch Finder
At a glance
| Energy level | |
|---|---|
| Shedding | |
| Grooming needs | |
| Apartment-friendly | |
| Handles cold | |
| Affectionate / cuddly | |
| Good with kids | |
| Good for first-time owners | |
| Easy to train | |
| Good with other dogs | |
| Good with cats | |
| OK being left alone | |
| Reliable off-leash | |
| Protective / watchdog | |
| Barking | |
| Drooling |
Great for
- Hunters and lake lovers
- Cold climates
- Experienced owners
Watch out for
- More stubborn than other retrievers
- Can be wary of strangers
- Oily coat has a doggy smell
Daily care
Exercise: 1–2 hours a day; loves swimming.
Grooming: Weekly brushing; avoid frequent baths that strip coat oils.
Cold weather: Built for icy water; one of the best cold-weather retrievers.
*Yearly cost covers food, routine vet care, preventatives, toys and supplies. It doesn't include the purchase or adoption fee, emergencies or grooming beyond basics.
Gear for a Chesapeake Bay Retriever
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- FoodLarge breed dog food
Formulas made for large breeds match their energy needs and kibble size. Look for "complete and balanced" (AAFCO) on the bag, and ask your vet what's right for your dog.
See options on Amazon - Crate42-inch dog crate
A 42" crate fits most adult Chesapeake Bay Retrievers (up to about 80 lb). Choose one with a divider so it grows with a puppy.
See options on Amazon - Leash and harnessNo-pull harness and 6-foot leash
A front-clip harness helps with pulling while your dog learns leash manners.
See options on Amazon - ToysDurable chew and fetch toys
Chesapeake Bay Retrievers have a lot of energy; tough rubber toys and balls hold up to hard play.
See options on Amazon - GroomingBristle or rubber grooming brush
A quick weekly brush keeps the coat clean and shiny.
See options on Amazon - WinterPaw balm
Protects paws from road salt and ice, even on cold-tolerant breeds.
See options on Amazon - BedOrthopedic dog bed
Big dogs are prone to joint problems; a supportive foam bed helps.
See options on Amazon
Find a Chesapeake Bay Retriever near you
We're building a list of trusted Chesapeake Bay Retriever rescues, breeders and trainers. Rescues are listed first.
Listings coming soon. In the meantime:
- Search adoptable dogs near you on Petfinder
- AKC's Chesapeake Bay Retriever page, which links to breed club rescue networks
Run a Chesapeake Bay Retriever rescue, training or grooming business? Get listed free.
Not sure a Chesapeake Bay Retriever is right for you? Take the 3-minute quiz to see which breeds fit your home and lifestyle.
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