So, after reading all you can about the breed, you think that a Chesapeake would suit you and your lifestyle, but you don’t know where to start looking to find a dog? We strongly recommend that you meet some adult Chessies and chat to their owners about the breed, before you go looking at litters of puppies. Chesapeake puppies are irresistably cute, but they don’t stay puppies for long. The best way to see lots of Chesapeakes is to attend a CBRC event or two. These are listed on the Events page.

You could also contact the Club’s Secretary and find out whether there are any Chessies living close to you that you might visit. Most owners will be only too willing to show you their dogs and discuss the ins and outs of owning a Chesapeake!

Finding a puppy

Around 150 Chesapeake puppies are born each year in the UK. The number varies as many breeders may only have an occasional litter, and few breeders have more than one litter per year. If there is a particular line that you like, you may have to wait a while for your puppy. Always ask to meet the mother of the litter, and if possible, the father too, to make sure you like them and their temperament. The mother should be at the breeder’s home. If you are intending to work your dog, most breeders will have no problem in demonstrating their dog’s retrieving ability for you.

The CBRC recommends that you only consider buying a puppy from a litter where all the relevant health checks have been carried out on both parents. Ask the breeder to confirm that both parents of the litter have been checked for the following health problems:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • PRA
  • Degenerative myelopathy
  • Hereditary cataracts
 See the Health page for more information, and the Litters page for details of any puppies currently available.

Finding an older dog

Sometimes older Chessies may need re-homing through no fault of their own. Breeders may have dogs that they have run on as puppies, but decided not to keep for various reasons. Other owners may have had a change in circumstances that means they are no longer able to keep their dog. Occasionally Chessies come into Chesapeake Rescue in need of a new home.

If you would prefer an adult dog to a young puppy, then why not talk to Chesapeake Rescue? Please note that there is usually a short waiting list for older dogs.

Chesapeake Rescue contacts
Molly Barker – 07753 465569 – cbrc.secretary@outlook.com
Cathy Broomfield – 01229 465880 – info@verstone-kennels.co.uk

Finding a Stud Dog

If you are thinking of breeding from your bitch, and are looking for a stud dog, please ensure you have read about the recommended health tests. There is a list of health-tested stud dogs on the Stud Dog page.