The Chesapeake is also protec­tive of his home turf and can be trusted to protect the family property. Although he makes an excellent watchdog, he is a poor attack dog as he is not naturally inclined to inflict injury or harm. Those Chesapeakes who are known to be overly aggressive have unfortunately been irrespon­sibly bred or trained to be so, which is a true injustice to the breed. Chesapeake character has been affectionately described in historical literature as “.. .kind and gentle, a child can handle him; his heart knows no fear; he will stand to his death in defence of his masters' person or property; on the bleakest shore on the coldest night, if a gun or coat is acciden­tally left, he will guard it.'

Although the breed is possessed of an intense and affectionate personality, the Chesapeake is not fawning as are some other retriever breeds and tends to be stand-offish with strangers. He is extremely intelli­gent and seems quite able to reason both when hunting in the field and in everyday life at home. On the negative side, as experi­enced owners frequently contend, he can be stubborn and irascible; will resist training if he is unhappy with his situation or his owner. His attitude is often aloof and impassive during training, which makes him rather difficult to read, and he needs sustained authority if he is to learn and perform as directed.

A Chesapeake must receive consistent training while still a puppy if he is to fulfill his maximum potential and become a respectful member of the family and/or responsive hunting partner. His owner must imprint all the rules very early on his Chessie puppy's mind to mould the dog into a pleasant and obedient companion.

Despite his understated and somewhat passive personality, the Chesapeake lives best when part of his human family. He will accept confinement or kennel life; but will not thrive in a solitary state without people as he absolutely requires love and a close association with his family. The Chesapeake is as serious about his work and responsibility to his family as he is to his role of hunter. He offers unsurpassed loyalty and devotion if his owner is firm, but, most importantly, also fair, loving and understanding.

OWNING A CHESAPEAKE BAY RETRIEVER

Although the Chesapeake has many fine qualities that you may find charming and appealing, this is not a breed for the typical inexperienced dog fancier. You should think seriously about why you want a dog and what you expect before adding one to your family.

A Chesapeake is not a wavy version of a Labrador or Golden Retriever; they are each very distinct breeds with completely different personalities. Bred originally as hard-working ducking dogs, Chessies still retain that original toughness required for working under severe hunting conditions. Intensely loyal, serious and protective, they do not share the 'love-everyone' attitude of other retriever breeds.

Basic training is not optional with a Chesapeake; it is essential if he is to respect you as his master and obey even the simplest of household rules. You must start' his training when he is still a puppy, since that early imprinting is most important to his accept­ance of you as his leader. Owners are wise to plan a minimum of eight to ten weeks of basic puppy school, where owner and pup learn to work together, supple­mented by daily training sessions at home.

The Chesapeake will grow into a large, powerful and assertive dog, so growing up with rules he understands is a key element in successful cohabita­tion. If you are unassertive or unable to establish yourself as the leader or alpha person in his life, the dog will assume that role and make his own rules. Even a mild­ mannered Chesapeake can become a dominant force who will intimidate family members whom he does not respect.

The sportsman who acquires a Chesapeake as an hunting partner faces the same problems and challenges mentioned above. A working Chessie must learn rules early in his life, receive firm but fair and consistent training, and live within the family circle. Compatibility as a home compan­ion is essential to successes in the field and duck blind.

The Chesapeake seldom offers exuberant displays of affection or frivolous, comical behaviour. Although he enjoys petting and conversation and is emotionally sensitive to his master's moods, he is not overbearing or pushy and is content just to be nearby, simply sharing quiet time together.