Specimens that are lacking in breed characteristics should be disqualified. Oversized or undersized animals are to be severely penalized . Depth of body should extend at least to the elbow. Shoulder to elbow and elbow to ground should be equal. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever should have an intelligent expression.
Eyes are to be medium large, very clear, of yellowish or amber color and wide apart.
Ears are to be small, set well up on the head, hanging loosely, and of medium leather. Skull is broad and round with a medium stop. Nose is medium short. Muzzle is approximately the same length as the skull, tapered, pointed but not sharp. Lips are thin, not pendulous.