Chessies aren´t Labs

AS much as I love this breed, my first rule of thumb that I use is: CHESSIES ARE NOT LABS OR GOLDENS.
Yes, they do almost all the same things as labs, goldens, etc. but have a very different character that makes them very different from the other retriever breeds. Chessies will protect and guard everything with passion that they feel is his/hers. Birds, space around owner, kennel, owner's possesions, and so forth.

Early socialization with both people and dogs is mandatory.
All these experiences should be very pleasant so that the dog does not associate anything bad with dogs or people.

We also made the point of being the PACK LEADER. With Chesapeakes, this is a must. If not, your authority will be questioned, and you shortly will run into trouble, as chessies are known for this trait of leadership challenges, and therefore, as mentioned before, you always have to be alpha from the start to the finish.

Now, I realize that these points are common sense and only a fool would make suck errors... but I want to share them with someone who is about to become a new owner.

- Picture
Above: Cider is charming opposing my ‚sit' command. You have to be fair but firm and consistent when you want to win the respect of your chesapeake.

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