[Konnie Hein]

I just met a Chessie this weekend (in training for disaster search and rescue) who was a really impressive dog. I was tempted to steal the dog from its handler, and I'm not usually easily impressed. Certainly I wouldn't describe him as easy to train, but that was part of the appeal. He was definitely a very drivey dog without all the hyperactivity you see in some other high drive dogs.

If anybody has anything new to add to this thread regarding the Chessie temperament, please do. I'd love to learn more about this breed as a working/detection dog.

 

[Konnie Hein]

That's kind of what I like about them. I do like dogs with a little bit of attitude or hard-headedness. However, I'm not sure if it would be the right choice for the work I do with my dogs. A good disaster SAR dog is fearless, but shouldn't have a high level of protectiveness or suspicion. Biddability is also a factor. Independence is required while searching, but the dog has to be directable.

 

[Konnie Hein]

I owned two and would NEVER get another one.

Can you elaborate on why you would never get another one?

 

[Konnie Hein]

Goldens are nice if you don't raise your voice, Labs are great family animals.

Apparently you've not been around some of the goldens I've had to train recently! Seems like there is a trend towards breeding some pretty confident, hard-headed goldens these days. I've worked with a few this past year who gave me a run for my money!