Characteristics, history, care tips and other useful information for Czech Terrier dogs The Cesky terrier is a dog of differences. Small and sturdy, energetic yet calm, strong-willed but gentle: this dog is a complete hunter who can also be a wonderful family pet. As you may guess, such a gem is hard to find, the Cesky being among the most uncommon dog breeds globally. Also called the Bohemian Terrier, it serves as the national dog of the Czech Republic. Cesky is said as «chess-kee» and the term literally means Czech, which fits perfectly since the breed’s origins are linked to the idea and effort of a Czech. Cesky Terriers are longer than they are high and have a long, smooth coat in different shades of gray. A notable fringe of fur hangs down the forehead and over the eyes.
Overview
GROUP: Terriers
HEIGHT: Male: 29cm, Female: 27cm
WEIGHT: 5.9 – 10 kg
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FUR AND COLOR: Various shades of gray (from black to platinum)
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12-15 years
Characteristics of Cesky Terrier dogs
| Level of affection | Mare |
| Friendliness | environment |
| Friendship with children | Mare |
| Friendship with other animals | environment |
| The need for physical exercise | environment |
| Desire to play | environment |
| Energy level | environment |
| Training | Mare |
| Intelligence | Mare |
| Tendency to bark | environment |
| mute | environment |
History of the Cesky Terrier breed
It might seem like a daunting idea to design your ideal dog, but Frantisek Horak, a hunter from the city of Prague, had a vision in mind for a new breed of dog. In the mid-1900s, Horak decided to embark on a dog breeding program to produce a terrier that was an adaptable hunter and at the same time an easy-to-train companion.
Some terriers, although tenacious hunters, tend to be stubborn and domineering. Cesky’s goal was to breed a small terrier that would not lose the ability to hunt independently or in a pack, but would be more unpretentious and obedient.
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To realize his vision, Horak began selectively breeding Scottish Terriers and Sealyham Terriers that had the ideal type and traits for this new breed. Although not well documented, it is speculated that the Dandie Dinmont terrier and the wirehaired dachshund also contributed to the Cesky gene pool. It’s not hard to imagine, as Dandie Dinmonts are known for their docile temperament, a major concern of Horak, while dachshunds have long and short bodies with the ability to hunt large and small game.
Despite the setbacks that many breeds experienced in the face of World War II, when breeding populations were low and resources limited, Horak ensured that the progress made with the Cesky terrier did not stop. In 1963, the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) granted the breed official recognition.
It took about two decades before the Cesky Terrier was first imported into the United States in the 1980s. It took several more decades for the breed to gain AKC recognition, which happened in 2011. Today, this Bohemian Terrier is on the AKC’s list of rarest dog breeds, making the search for it even more special.
Caring for Cesky Terrier dogs
Cesky makes a great companion and is always ready for adventures or to cuddle with you on the couch. They are an excellent choice for those who live in apartments but enjoy having a yard and playing outside regularly.
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Keep in mind that as terriers they have an intelligent nature that needs to be channeled correctly otherwise they can become mischievous. But compared to many other strong-willed terriers, you’ll find the Cesky to be more obedient and submissive, making it a well-rounded pet.
Their desire to please you makes this breed particularly easy to train. I usually learn the basics of training and listening at home with relative ease.
But beware of subtle stubbornness. As terriers, they are still prone to an independent attitude if you are not consistent with training and maintaining order «in the pack» – you being the pack leader.
Their level of intelligence means they also enjoy learning new tricks and it can be a good opportunity to give their mind some much-needed exercise whilst strengthening your bond.
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As a small but active dog breed, you can expect Cesky to be up for a long walk every day and may even join you for a run. If you like hiking or backpacking, this terrier will be right there with you, but be aware that his small stature means he may have some limitations when it comes to climbing rocks or crossing rivers.
When enjoying the outdoors with a Cesky, remember that this dog was bred to be an avid hunter, so he may have a keen predatory instinct. It is best to keep your dog on a leash to avoid a mad dash and possibility of disaster.
These dogs are known to be affectionate and loyal with family members, but more reserved with strangers. They are not particularly distant or even aggressive – they are just cautious until they feel comfortable with the newcomer. An impressive bark for the Cesky’s relatively small size serves as a good warning to intruders, but that’s all it has to offer in terms of guard dog abilities.
The breed does well with well-behaved children and can be taught to live with other animals. Proper socialization is essential, especially with dogs and cats of similar size, as the Cesky can be bossy. It is important to avoid letting your Cesky run free with pocket pets such as gerbils, hamsters, ferrets, etc., as these small creatures can easily trigger your Cesky’s predatory instincts.
The Czech Terrier has a flowing, silky coat. It will require more frequent bathing as the fine texture of the fur tends to retain dirt. Additionally, good brushing every few days will keep knots in the fur and reduce tangles, which owners say can be considerable. About every 6-8 weeks (depending on your dog’s coat), you will need to take him to a groomer.
Common health problems
Born from careful purebred puppy breeding, the Cesky is known to be a healthy breed with few common health problems. Breeders who are committed to helping the Cesky breed continue to thrive and grow in popularity are critical to the continued longevity and healthy nature of this breed.
Occasionally, these dogs suffer from Scottie Cramp, a disorder inherited from the Scottish terrier pedigree used to develop the breed. Although it causes muscle spasms and cramps, Scottie Cramp, in its milder forms, is not life-threatening or debilitating; an episode usually passes in about 30 minutes or less.
While there are few other genetic health conditions to worry about, watch out for the following dog health problems:
- Patellar luxation
- Progressive renal atrophy
- Cataract
- Heart problems
Diet and nutrition
Feed your Cesky a balanced diet without gorging him at meals or with treats. These dogs can be very food oriented, so it’s important to keep them in a routine and not allow them to overeat. The breed is not known to suffer from many food allergies, so they generally do well on any high-quality food formula.
Advantages
- Easy to train and docile in behavior
- Gets along well with children
- Less exuberant than other terriers
disadvantage
- Can be dominant or aggressive with smaller animals
- Strong predatory instinct
- Can be shy without proper socialization
Other dog breeds and additional information
As with any breed, if you think the Czech Terrier is right for you, be sure to do your research before getting one. Talk to your veterinarian, other Cesky owners, reputable breeders, dog trainers, and rescue groups to find out more.
If you are interested in similar breeds, research them to compare the pros and cons.
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