Cesky Terrier

Cesky Terrier

(Czech Terrier)

Although originally bred as a hunter, the Cesky Terrier's good looks and character make this breed an excellent home companion.

History:

The Cesky Terrier, or Bohemian Terrier as it is also known, is a breed that was developed in Czechoslovakia in the 1940s. Czechoslovakian sportsmen were not satisfied with the abilities of the German Hunt Terrier and set about to create their own ideal breed. They wanted a dog that was able to go to ground, but was also strong enough to deal with either fox or badger. Overseen by geneticist Frantisek Horal, they crossed Scottish Terriers and Sealyham Terriers to generate the Cesky Terrier. Superficial resemblance to the Dandie Dinmont Terrier suggests that this breed might have been incorporated at some time, although it may just be another example of two breeds with similar purposes. The Cesky Terrier was officially recognized as a breed in 1963, and so is a relatively new breed.

Physical characteristics:

The Cesky Terrier is a striking-looking dog, resembling both the Scottish Terrier and Sealyham Terrier from which it was developed. It is a long-bodied dog. Height: (25 - 32 cm). Weight: (6 - 10 kg). The breed has a long head with moderate forward-folding ears. The face is generously covered with eyebrows, whiskers and moustache, usually of a lighter color than the rest of the coat. The head, ears and neck have short hair and the coat along the back is usually clipped, further accentuating the facial hair. The coat can be either blue-gray or light coffee, and is profuse on the legs and underbelly. The breed's short sturdy legs ideally suit it to going to ground after its quarry.

Behavior:

This feisty little Terrier has the spirit of a much larger dog. The Cesky can be very protective of its family and so makes a great watch-dog. The endearing expression and amazing sense of play go together to make a cheeky little dog. Owners are advised to be quite strict with this dog while it is young, as it will further develop into its strong-willed character as it gets older.