The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is known as one of the hardest working retrievers and an excellent protector. The breed is also intensely loyal to its family. While happy, playful and energetic, this is no Labrador Retriever. Yet the Chessie is sometimes mistakenly considered a close relative of the Lab. This does not mean they are any less wonderful, but if you are expecting a “happy-go-lucky” dog that is kid-friendly and highly affectionate, you are not looking for a Chessie.

Could this be the breed for you? While Chessies are not right for everyone, they make wonderful companions in the right homes (where all of their needs are met). That means plenty of training, lots of exercise and, ideally, a job to do. If you decide the Chessie is …