Isolated polynucleotides encoding monkey Melanin Concentrating Hormone (MCH) Type 1 receptors and chimeric polypeptides are provided. Vectors and cells for recombinant expression of such MCH1R polypeptides, and isolated MCH1R polypeptides are also provided. MCH1R polynucleotides and polypeptides may be used, for example, to identify compounds that specifically interact with MCH receptor. Such compounds find use within therapies for humans and animals afflicted with conditions associated with MCH receptor activation.