Česky Terrier Dogs

A cesky terrier sitting neatly, waiting for some attention from it's owner

A cesky terrier showing off it's beautifully groomed coat

A cesky terrier showing off it's neat beard a big beautiful eyes

A cesky terrier with wonderful pointed ears and a long fringe

A close up of a cesky terrier wonderful neat beard

A young cesky terrier standing on it's backlegs wanting some attention

An adult cesky terrier with a beautifully groomed grey and black coat

A close up of a cesky terrier's wonderfully groomed face

An adult cesky terrier with a beautifully groomed coat

History

The Česky Terrier (pronounced 'chesky') originated in Czechoslovakia, in what is now the Czech Republic. It was developed by František Horák in 1948. It was a cross between a Scottish Terrier, Sealyham Terrier, and (probably) Dandie Dinmont), the aim being to get a dog slim enough to slip down fox holes and also catch rats. By the 1980s, it was felt that the breed had drifted too far from the original specimens, so crossbreeding began with the Sealyham Terrier. It is sometimes known as the Bohemian Terrier, and is quite rare.

Behaviour

The Česky is an affectionate, lively and content breed. They are calmer than other Terriers, but when it comes to hunting their natural traits come to the fore. They make good pets and are friendly around children and other dogs within the home. Cats can be a problem, but are usually fine if the dogs have been raised with them. Českies are patient around children who treat them with respect, and love a game indoors. If they have been used to a variety of different people from an early age, they are fine with strangers in the home, but will always bark a warning if someone approaches the front door. Friendly and calm, Ceskies make good therapy dogs and love attention.

Training requires patience - these are Terriers after all! They require a firm hand and are capable of learning, but their stubborn nature means it takes time to train them. Treat-based rewards and praise works well, but recall will never be perfect in this breed unless hours are devoted to this aspect alone. Their Terrier instinct for hunting and chasing is bred into them, so they are best walked in a secure area or on a lead at all times.

You need to show the Česky who's boss, to prevent this little dog trying to take over. Firm, consistent training is the key to overrule their feisty, stubborn ways. Although they do not react well to harsh words, a kind 'tough love' approach is best. They love running around and showing off, and do well in competitions.

Českies need a fair amount of exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. A long walk every day is best, but they are quite happy with short walks and a vigorous game in the garden. They aren't demanding when it comes to exercise, but do need to get out and run around to expel energy. They love to play hide and seek with their favourite toy, have a good nose for scent, and this is one way to teach recall.

The Česky's coat is unusual in that it isn't stripped like most terriers. It should be clipped frequently, with the hair left long around the stomach, legs and face to give the characteristic beard. Show dogs are clipped more often, but pets can make do with four times a year. They will need brushing once or twice a week.

Health wise, this is quite a sturdy dog.

Temperament

Česky Terriers laid back and rugged dogs. They have a workmanlike attitude out on adventures, and great stamina to match. At home they are fairly relaxed - one of the calmest terrier breeds, in fact. They enjoy games and are pretty good at making friends with other animals (at least for a terrier). They tend to be impartial to strangers but still polite.

Health Problems

Česky Terriers are prone to canine hip dysplasia (CHD), luxating patella (dislocation of the kneecap), and Scottie cramp (limb spasms - harmless, but not pleasant to see).