The Cesky Terrier, a.k.a. the Bohemian Terrier, is a family-oriented, clever, and adventurous dog with a small body, feisty temperament, and spunk physical appearance.
In this article, we will explore the history, physical characteristics, personality traits, and health considerations of the lovable and unique-looking little Cesky Terrier.
History and Origins of the Cesky Terrier
The Cesky Terrier is a relatively new breed, having been developed in Czechoslovakia during the mid-1900s. It was created by František Horák, a Czech breeder who desired a terrier that was friendly and docile yet still excelled at hunting in packs.
To achieve his goal, Horák crossed a Scottish Terrier with a Sealyham Terrier. Dandie Dinmont Terriers and wirehaired Dachshunds were also included in the cross at some point to create the Cesky Terrier we know today.
The Cesky Terrier quickly gained popularity throughout Czechoslovakia and beyond thanks to its unique characteristics. One of the most notable features of the Cesky Terrier is its low-shedding coat, which is soft and silky to the touch.
Kennel Club Recognition
Throughout the years, the Cesky Terrier has remained a popular breed, and in 1958 it was officially recognized by the Czechoslovakian Kennel Club. Later, in 1963, it was approved by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale,
In 2011, the American Kennel Club recognized the Cesky Terrier as a distinct breed and classified it into its Terrier Group, solidifying its place as a unique and beloved canine.
Physical Characteristics and Appearance
At first glance, the Cesky Terrier may resemble a Scottish Terrier because of its short legs and pointed ears. Closer inspection, however, reveals several unique characteristics of the breed.
Size and Weight
Cesky Terriers are small dogs, weighing between 14 and 24 pounds and standing roughly 10 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder. This compact size makes them a great choice for small homes or apartments.
Despite their small size, Ceskys are known for their speed and athleticism. They are often used in agility competitions and can be trained to perform a variety of tricks and tasks.
Coat and Colors
The Cesky Terrier is known for its distinctively soft and wavy coat, which is gray in color. White markings and furnishings in cream, yellow, silver, and tan are allowed according to the breed’s standard.
The coat of the Cesky Terrier is hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for people with allergies. Breed members require regular grooming to keep their coats looking their best. They should be brushed at least once a week to prevent matting and tangling.
In addition to their soft coats, Cesky Terriers have long, luxurious whiskers and eyebrows, which enhance their already expressive faces. These whiskers and eyebrows are typically groomed to keep them looking neat and tidy.
Distinctive Features
One of the unique characteristics of the Cesky Terrier is its facial hair, which grows in a downward direction from its chin, giving the breed a distinctive beard. The beard is often groomed to keep it looking neat and tidy.
Ceskys have long, floppy ears that frame their adorable facial features perfectly. They have narrow faces and expressive eyes, which are usually dark in color. The breed’s body is long and lean with short legs.
Personality and Temperament
The Cesky Terrier is a playful, friendly, and intelligent dog breed. Ceskys are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature and enjoy spending time with their families. It is quite adaptable and can thrive in both urban and rural environments.
Intelligence and Trainability
Ceskys are smart and eager to please, which makes them easy to train. They have a natural desire to learn and enjoy working with their owners. However, they can also be stubborn at times, so patience is essential during the training process.
It’s important to use positive reinforcement methods, such as treats or praise, to motivate and reward your Cesky for good behavior. In addition to regular obedience training, Cesky Terriers excel in activities such as agility, tracking, and even therapy work.
Socialization and Interaction with Other Animals
Socialization is essential for Cesky Terriers, as they can be reserved around strangers and other animals. Early socialization will help your Cesky learn how to interact with people and animals in a positive and appropriate manner.
Ceskys get along well with children and make excellent family dogs. However, they may not be as tolerant of other pets, especially small animals such as rodents or birds. It’s important to supervise your Cesky around other animals and teach them appropriate behavior.
Affection and Alone Time
Cesky Terriers are very affectionate and loyal to their families. They need plenty of love and attention from their owners and thrive on regular interaction. They enjoy playing and cuddling, and their affectionate nature makes them an ideal lapdog.
Due to their love for their families, Cesky Terriers can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. They do best in homes where someone is around most of the time or where they have another dog for company.
Protectiveness and Loyalty
Despite their small size, Cesky Terriers are confident and courageous dogs. They are not afraid to stand up to larger dogs or protect their families if they sense danger. However, they are not aggressive by nature and will only resort to barking or growling if they feel threatened.
Health and Lifespan
The Cesky Terrier is a generally healthy and long-lived breed with an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. However, like all dogs, it can be prone to certain health issues, such as:
- Patellar Luxation: An orthopedic and extremely painful condition in which the kneecap pops out of its place, causing limping and impaired mobility
- Eye Problems: Breed members are susceptible to cataracts, primary lens luxation (PLL), and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Cardiac Issues: The breed is at higher-than-average risk of developing heart conditions that eventually lead to heart failure
- Scotty Cramp: A neurological condition in which the dog shows temporary goose-stepping gait and arched spine, usually after exercise or excitement
Conclusion
The Cesky Terrier is an amazing breed with a unique look and temperament that set it apart from other canines in the dogdom. The breed is reliable and affectionate.
Despite its worldwide recognition, the Cesky Terrier is relatively rare. If interested in the breed, ensure you find a reputable breeder and be patient while waiting for your puppy.
