The origin of this breed has quite a unique story behind it. In 1807 a English brig wrecked of the coast of Maryland. The ships crew and cargo was rescued by another ship named the Canton. Along with the cargo two Newfoundland pups where rescued. They where named "Sailor" and "Canton"

These two dogs where given as a gift for helping with the ships rescue and where ultimately breed with dogs local to Maryland area.

By 1884 a definite Chesapeake variety had been established. It was know for it's prowess in the icy waters of the Chesapeake Bay, where they where used to retrieve ducks. They would retrieve 100 or 200 ducks a day at times.

In 1918 the American Chesapeake Club was founded and in 1932 club held its first retriever trials.