1. Home & Garden

My Chessie Loves Everyone She Meets

Reader Stories: Living with a Chesapeake Bay Retriever

From Patricia

Dog's Name & Age 

Chessie is 2 years old this past December 15

In a Word, My Chessie Is… 

Big and strong and playful

Best Characteristics of the Breed 

Intelligence

Most Challenging Characteristics of the Breed 

Can't find anything wrong with my Chessie. She listens to everything I say

When, Where and How I Got My Chesapeake Bay Retriever 

I was going to retire from being a registered nurse at a large hospital in DC and because I live in Southern MD, Dunkirk near Annapolis and the Chesapeake Bay and Patuxent River I knew I wanted a water dog to go on long walks with me. I didn't know any breeders in the area at that time so I got on the internet and found a breeder in Western New York. They lived on a farm and had five children and the owner was a former teacher. I knew they were responsible and trustworthy so they sent me pictures of my Chessie. She was beautiful with the most expressive eyes I have ever seen. She was ten weeks old.

I'd Describe My Dog As… 

The most loyal and intelligent dog I have ever seen. She has a sweet personality and loves everyone she meets. She stays right by my side when we go for our walks in the woods and to the river. She loves all other dogs and gets along with everyone. She seems to know what I want of her before I say or do anything

Advice 

  • My advice is to simply let your dog know you love them. I am lucky because I am able to spend all my time with her. Let your dog know what you expect of them. Chessies are very good with small children. At the dog park the little kids come up to her and she lets them pet her and enjoys their company. She does not jump up on them.

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.