Xtreme

We still have Swallows and House Martins in Lincolnshire, i saw some yesterday evening. Doubtless their departure is imminent however.

This isn't too far wrong.

So you've got one then mate. Well done. Any issues at all, give me a shout. As you quite rightly say, let the fun begin!

To be fair, every Chessy I've known have been a bit full on, particularly when young. My Merlin gets a bit like that when he's become excited, he can get like that when he meets a bitch he takes a shining to. He's never bitten or hurt anyone in any way. I've had no real issues with him behaviour wise, neither do i do i anticipate having any. A I've said previously, the breed is full of energy and are eager to work at a moment's notice. They also love company and will become bored if not adequately exercised, and like most dogs when bored, they can become destructive. Compared with a Weimaraner i once had, Chessys are easy.

Thank you gentlemen. He can be a handful at times but he's worth it. I may stud him in a couple of years, im sure he'll enjoy that! Do let us know how you get on with your potential leads. I do know of someone in Doncaster who breeds excellent Chessys but they had a big litter about a year ago so it may be a of a while yet.

Apologies for the delay in replying - very busy. It seems as if you have the perfect environment for your Chessy, as i have in the fens with many miles of saltings a stone's throw away. Plenty of outdoor work is essential to their wellbeing. I'm sure Penrose will respond to your enquiry eventually, they are known to be not brilliant at responding promptly. Yes, mine have all been hard workers. The current one is no exception though he has a way to go yet. I attach a photo of him taken this morning on the sea wall. It was a quick snap so it doesn't show him at his best. His name is Merlin and he was 1 year old yesterday. He is already at over 40 kg but needs to fill out a bit. His Sire is Penrose Double Trouble from Long Meadow (Imp USA) His Dam is Penrose Night Jar (AW1)

If your heart is set on a Chesapeake Bay Retriever then you must have one. I have had a few over the years and i would suggest you research the breed before buying, having said that, you've probably done that already. One or two caveats to bear in mind are they that are not remotely similar to a Labrador or Golden Retriever. I think it's fair to say a good deal more work is needed with a Chessy than the aforementioned breeds. Chessys are, more often or not, single minded, willful and headstrong. They can, at times be very standoffish with strangers and other dogs unless properly socialised. They often have a strong propensity for defiance. In short, they can be blinking hard work. They are, in my experience not hard to train. Consistency is the key with Chessys as they remember everything and forget nothing. If you make a mistake they will let you know. Chessys are highly intelligent dogs and will walk you out to your favourite spot on the marsh, even in the dark. They are marvellous swimmers and will retrieve the heaviest of geese with ease, at least they make it look easy. They are simply the best wildfowling dog. As a powerful, resilient and active dog, they need plenty of exercise out of season, at least 1-2 hours a day when mature. I would advise buying from a well known breeder of good bloodstock. All of mine have come from http://www.penrose-chesapeakes.co.uk/ they are based in Carmarthenshire. All of their dogs are working dogs and not shown. I can't recommend them highly enough.

I recall some years back, reading about a plan to build a sea wall from Norfolk to North Lincolnshire, drain the enclosed land and name the new area the county of Victoria.

Thanks mate. Lincolnshire is a great county for wildfowling, we are spoilt for choice here. I've not been out with the gun yet but i have done a recce of the marshes at Butterwick and Benington and there's not a duck or goose to be seen! I think it's currently a bit warm and the migrations have yet to start.

Hi everyone. I'm new here but i have been lurking for a while. I'm interesting in all forms of shooting, rifle and shotgun. I have also just returned to wildfowling after an absence of some years.