The Chesapeake Bay retriever is valued for its bright and happy disposition, intelligence, quiet good sense, and affectionate protective nature. Some of them become vocal while happy; while this can be mistaken for a growl it is only a sign of happiness and not intended to create alarm. In addition, some dogs will 'smile' when happy by baring their front teeth in a peculiar grin; again this is not a threat but a sign of joy. The Chesapeake is naturally dominant and, while usually won't start a fight over dominance, the breed will defend his position as the alpha dog. Obedience training is a must with this breed.

The Chesapeake tends to recognize only one person in its family as master. All other people are considered by the dog to be either equal or subordinate. Willful, this breed can be prone to dominance problems if not properly trained and socialized. The Chesapeake is different than other retrievers in that he can be more aggressive, willful and reserved with strangers. They may be combative with other dogs. These are strong dogs and have a tendency to be territorial, so they require firm training and good management. Chesapeakes are usually slow to mature. These dogs tend to have a mind of their own. They prefer to do what they want, so if asked to do otherwise they may be a bit stubborn.

Chesapeake Bay Retrievers trace their history to two Newfoundland dogs -- the male "Sailor" and female "Canton" -- who were rescued from a foundering ship in Maryland in 1807. They were to breed with various dogs creating the line. Train your pup using Cesar Millan's Dog Whisperer tips!