Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Chessies are generally more independent, protective and reserved with strangers than Labradors. Their oily, wavy coat is made for icy water and has a noticeable smell, while a Labrador's coat is shorter and flatter. Labs tend to be friendly with everyone and keen to please. Chessies suit experienced owners who want a tough working retriever that doubles as a loyal guardian.

They are coat colors named after marsh grasses on the Chesapeake Bay. Sedge covers red to strawberry blond shades, while deadgrass runs from pale straw to a dull tan. Brown covers everything from milk chocolate to very dark. All three help the dog blend into the reeds and grasses where it was bred to work, and none is healthier than another.

Yes, a little. The coat contains natural oils that repel water, and they give off a mild musky smell, especially when wet. Frequent bathing strips those oils and weakens the coat's water resistance, so it is better to rinse after swims, wash bedding weekly and brush regularly. A sudden strong or sour smell from the ears or skin should be checked by a vet.

Many live well with other dogs, especially if raised with them, but some are selective, particularly with dogs of the same sex. Early socializing, supervised introductions and good manners training all help. Meeting the parents gives you a sense of the temperament you can expect. In multi-dog homes, a male and female pair often works best.

Clear yellow or amber eyes are normal for the breed and called for in the standard. They are part of the classic Chessie look and are often said to suit a dog meant to blend into marsh and reed beds. A change in eye color, cloudiness or redness, especially with squinting, is not normal and should be seen by a vet.