I agree Fabs, I had a BIG black lab growing up. His name was Evel. 115 lbs and not fat a bit. He was very protective. But if I introduced him to someone... he was fine from that point on. Forever.
I have never been around Chessies, so I can't comment. I thought I wanted one for a while... but I don't water fowl much... and decided that it would be a waste. I upland hunt a lot more... so I went the GSP route.
Coopers a stud BTW. Well as much as a neutered dog can be.
I'll try to post some new pics.
Jabba