I've owned two, the first one was the standard Chesapeake that you read about. He was my dog, and didn't like other dogs since he was 8 weeks old. He was killed in a accident pretty young though.
I cannot say good enough things about Skookum Creek Chesapeakes, where I got Hank from. I think breeding has a lot to do with how his temperament turned out.
He is extremely mild mannered and the perfect family dog. I have 3 boys at home (12, 3, and 3weeks) he is attentive to all of us. I haven't had any problems aggression towards visitors or other dogs. He will bark at night when someone comes over, but calms down and trying to get attention as soon as they come in. Hank has the insane athletic ability and drive that I expected from him. And he does get into trouble if left alone too long though, he still has a lot of puppy in him though.
