Our Breeding Philosophy

I strive in my kennel to produce a structurally sound animal who is not only beautiful but has the intelligence, stamina, temperament and desire to represent the breed at it's best and to fulfill it's owner's expectations. Most of the breedings are linebred with occasional outcrosses. All animals used in my breeding program have been certified free of the genetic disease, Hip Dysphasia through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), and certified free of genetic eye diseases through the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF).

Recently, a genetic breakthrough in our breed occurred, DNA testing for the hereditary eye disease Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). This genetic test is expensive but the benefits outweigh the cost since it gives the breeder assurance that the dogs he/she is breeding does not carry the gene to produce the disease. The result of the disease is blindness, with an onset as early as 6 months of age.

There are three ratings for PRA:
PRA-A, or A-1: Meaning the dog is normal and does not carry the gene, it can be bred to any dog and not produce it in its offspring.
PRA-B: Meaning the dog does not have the disease but it could be a carrier and should only be bred to PRA-A dogs.
PRA-C: Meaning the dog has the disease and will pass it on to its offspring.

You have my guarantee that no affected dogs will ever be used in my breeding program, furthermore, no Chesapeake Bay Retriever with a structural fault will never be used for breeding.

All "Pet Quality" animals are to be spayed or neutered before being shipped or placed into their new homes. The AKC papers will be marked "Limited Registration" so that the owner may still compete in AKC functions and events as allowed.

© Copyright 2008, De Cocoa Kennels, All Rights Reserved