Chessie's are an awesome breed. It really depends on what you are expecting form a dog. They were bred to be more "territorial" and are not as people oriented (as a breed) as traditional labs. Think lab with more of a work focus. If you were looking for a real hunting retriever you'd have to look at them for their hardiness, trainability and focus. They can beand are great family pets to, but in my experience they are not as good around kids as a lab. Due to thier "guarding" insticts I'd be careful with kid introduction.

That is not a knock on the breed! They are awesome dogs.... but do your research.