Breed Health
Chesapeake Bay Retriever Health Issues
A generally hardy, cold-water working breed, though a few hereditary conditions are worth screening for before breeding or adoption.
Common Hereditary Conditions
Hip Dysplasia
A joint malformation that can affect this athletic breed’s mobility; screening of breeding parents lowers the odds in puppies.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
A gradual, inherited deterioration of the retina; a DNA test can identify carriers before breeding.
Exercise-Induced Collapse
A genetic condition causing weakness after intense exercise, documented in some retriever lines including this one; a DNA test can identify carriers.
Von Willebrand’s Disease
An inherited bleeding disorder documented in the breed; a simple blood test can identify affected dogs before any surgery is needed.
Preventive Care
Hip and eye clearances from a breeder cover the most significant hereditary risks. Requesting exercise-induced collapse and Von Willebrand’s test results further reduces hereditary risk in puppies. Given the breed’s oily, dense coat, regular skin checks during grooming help catch any irritation the coat might otherwise hide.
Did You Know?
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever’s coat naturally sheds water and dries quickly, an adaptation that let it retrieve for hours in near-freezing Chesapeake Bay waters without succumbing to the cold.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever Gifts
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