Health Issues: The Chesapeake Bay Retriever breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, Willbrand’s disease, entropy, and retinal atrophy. As with any breed of dog, it is very important that they receive their annual heartworm boosters and preventatives. Also be sure to visit the vet at least twice a year for a checkup.

Grooming: He can be bathed, but only if really necessary, as the oils on his fur can scratch. This breed needs weekly brushing just to remove hair and debris.

Living conditions: The Chesapeake Bay Retriever dog is not recommended for apartment living. He needs a good sized garden as he is an active dog. This dog enjoys sleeping outdoors, but needs to be a member of the family. They like nothing more than swimming and retrieving. It must be remembered that this is a working dog and therefore needs constant leadership. However, a gentle approach is the best way for this dog to learn, this breed is not recommended as a first dog.

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever dog breed can be very dominant, so you need an experienced handler who offers training, and a lot, on a consistent basis or this breed can become stubborn. If the balance is maintained as the human, a good strong leader with the dog firm but right where it belongs, and the human as the alpha, both dog and owner will be happy and content. This breed is slow to mature. This is a dog that is happy, and you can show it by “talking” greetings to him. Socialize this dog well, which will help him learn skills and accept new things.