Chessies 101
Sporting groupThe Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a powerful dog who forms a strong bond with their people. They're quick to learn and eager to please but can have their own ideas on how to accomplish tasks. Less lovey-dovey than the average Golden and more protective than the Labrador, the Chessie is a popular dog for duck hunters.
What we love about Chessies
A determined dog who'll happily break ice to swim
- Energy level
- High (75%)
- Bark level
- Talkative
- Height
- 21 to 26 inches
- Lifespan
- 10 to 13 years
- Weight
- 55 to 80 lbs
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever stands 21 to 26 inches tall and weighs 55 to 80 lbs. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers have a lifespan of 10 to 13 years. They are known for a high (75%) energy level and a talkative bark.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How big do Chesapeake Bay Retrievers get?
- Chesapeake Bay Retrievers stand 21 to 26 inches tall and typically weigh between 55 and 80 pounds.
- How long do Chesapeake Bay Retrievers live?
- The average lifespan of a Chesapeake Bay Retriever is 10 to 13 years.
- Are Chesapeake Bay Retrievers good for first-time dog owners?
- Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are intelligent but have high energy. They do best with experienced owners who can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
- Do Chesapeake Bay Retrievers bark a lot?
- Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are considered talkative — they bark more than average but are not excessively vocal.
My pet’s health plannerSM
This Chesapeake Bay Retriever health planner outlines the most common medical conditions at each life stage — from puppy through senior — along with their relative risk levels. Understanding these risks can help owners plan preventive care and choose the right pet insurance coverage.

Nationwide can help you save on your Chesapeake Bay Retriever's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
- Puppy (0 to 1 year)
- Urinary tract infection: Very High Risk, Gastroenteritis: Very High Risk, Conjunctivitis: High Risk
- Young Adult (1 year to 4 years)
- Trauma: Above Average Risk, Ear infection: Above Average Risk, Foreign body ingestion: Above Average Risk
- Mature Adult (5 years to 7 years)
- Cruciate ligament tear (knee): High Risk, Hypothyroid disease: Moderate Risk, Seizures: Above Average Risk
- Senior (8+ years)
- Arthritis: Very High Risk, Hypothyroid disease: Very High Risk, Kidney failure: Moderate Risk

Before being called the Chesapeake Bay Retriever, this dog was known as the Brown Winchester.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever coat care and colors
While retrievers tend to have dense, water-repellent coats, the Chessie's is also a bit oily. The coat is also thick with a softer undercoat. A weekly brushing will reduce shedding. Acclimate to nail trims early to avoid struggles later on.
How often should I groom my Chesapeake Bay Retriever?
How often should I groom my Chesapeake Bay Retriever?
Do Chesapeake Bay Retrievers shed a lot?
Do Chesapeake Bay Retrievers shed a lot?
What type of coat does my Chesapeake Bay Retriever have?
What type of coat does my Chesapeake Bay Retriever have?
Chessie exercise & training
Chessie fun facts
Top girl names for Chessies
of Chessies are female
of Chessies are male
Top boy names for Chessies
Nationwide loves Chesapeake Bay Retrievers of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer
| Gender | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Male | 0% |
| Female | 100% |
Among Chesapeake Bay Retrievers insured by Nationwide, 0% are male and 100% are female.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever statistics: Gender ratio is 0% male and 100% female.
Other breeds like Chessies
Best. Chesapeake Bay Retriever insurance. Ever.SM
- Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
- Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
- Cancel at any time, risk-free
