These sweet dogs are known for their incredibly loving and devoted natures. For this reason, they make fantastic family pets and have a natural affinity with children. One thing to watch out for with this breed is that they are often very independent and can also be fairly protective. For this reason, training must start as early as possible to stop any unwanted behavior developing. These guys also have very high energy and because they love water so much, need to be with a family that have time to give them lots of physical exercise. They would not suit a family who prefer to 'coach potato' lifestyle! They are not necessarily the best breed for first-time owners because of how much mental and physical stimulation, but with the right family, make lovely pets!

These dogs had a very interesting beginning! It's believed that the breed came about after a Shipwreck occurred off the coast of Maryland, around 200 years ago. Two puppies were rescued from the boat and have very similar appearances to Newfoundland dogs. They adored to be in the water and were eventually crossed with a retriever-type dog and later developed with a curly coat, to create the Chesapeake that we know today. The two puppies themselves ended up living very different lives, with the red pup going to a Sailor and ending up living with the Governor Lloyd and the black pup going on to be owned by a Doctor! However, it wasn't until 1933 that the Kennel Club accepted the dog as a breed.