Affectionate, Bright, Sensitive
Chessies are strong, powerfully built gundogs standing anywhere from 21 to 26 inches at the shoulder. A male can weigh up to 80 pounds. The distinctive breed trait is a wavy coat that is oily to the touch. Chessies are solid-colored, either chocolatey brown, sedge, or deadgrass, …
Energy
80%
Shedding
80%
Trainability
60%
Grooming
60%
Friendliness
40%
Coat Type
Wavy coat
2-3 Times a Week Brushing
Breed Data
Known genetic concerns: hip problems
dog food
Best overall large breed food — consistent quality at a fair price…
toys
The #1 chew toy for heavy chewers — nothing else comes close…
beds
Best cooling bed — essential for flat-faced breeds and dogs in warm cl…
health
Best DNA test overall — unmatched health screening depth…
training
Best GPS collar for active owners — 3-month battery is class-leading…
grooming
Best probiotic coat spray — supports skin microbiome health between ba…
Needs 60-90 minutes active exercise daily; thrives with a job or sport.
Heavy shedder — brush 3-4× per week and deShed weekly to manage coat.
Brush 2-3× weekly to maintain coat condition and reduce shedding around the home.
Recommended for experienced owners — high owner difficulty rating of 8/10.
Better suited to homes with outdoor space — this large breed needs room to move.
Naturally friendly and intelligent, it integrates well into family life when socialised early.
Working heritage means it needs a job or structured activity — under-stimulation leads to problem behaviours.
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FCI Group
Group 8 — Retrievers, Flushing Dogs and Water Dogs
Section
Retrievers
Status
recognized
