History and Origin: Developed in the Czech Republic, this spunky little terrier was developed in 1949 by crossing Scottish and Sealyham Terriers, and is a true hunting dog. At the time, dog clubs were formed primarily for hunting, and terrier clubs tested their true go-to-ground characteristics. The Cesky Terrier proved to be a worthy hunter as they were keen to hunt, but were able to work in packs, and were not prone to quarrelling amongst themselves! As they originated in communist Czechoslovakia, the breed did not become popular, and even today, is relatively rare, even though their population has spread throughout Europe and North America.
General Appearance: Sturdy yet small, the Cesky Terrier (pronounced Chess-key) is a fit, muscular, dog with short legs which allow this breed to sprint after game in short bursts. They have a soft plentiful coat that is non-shedding. Their soft, silky coat would benefit from a weekly combing to removed tangles and mats. They have drop ears, dark eyes, and are traditionally groomed with a beard and long eyebrows (fall), which help protect them from prey when they are in a warren and the prey turns on them. Better that they scratch or bite hair than the Cesky Terrier face! Cesky Terriers come in 2 colours, grey and brown. Grey (ranging from platinum to charcoal) is the predominant colour and brown (coffee) is extremely rare! Only a few brown puppies have been born in the history of the breed. Grey pups are born jet black, and fade to their adult colour. It takes up to 2 years for their adult colour to mature. Brown pups are born chocolate brown and fade to a coffee colour.
Feeding: a good quality dog food (low protein, and non-grain based) is all they need. Cesky Terriers can develop skin allergies, and grain-based foods seem to irritate this.
Training – Socialization is key with this breed. They benefit from going places, meeting people and keeping busy. No different than most breeds, basic training benefits both the dog and the owner. If there are multiple owners, everyone should be involved in training so that the dog understands that they should take commands from the entire family. Not particularly known for barking, they will sound when they see people or dogs out the window. Oddly enough, they tend not to bark without a barrier like a window or a fence, between them and the person or dog of interest.
Activity – Cesky Terriers enjoy a brisk walk, but would require a fenced yard. Walks would not need to be daily, but they are a great socialization activity and benefit both dog and owner. They are not know to be diggers, like some terriers. If they decide to dig, they are easily trained not to. Obedience is something a Cesky will take to easily. They love to please their master. Other activities such as terrier digs, barn hunts…they LOVE these! Also lure coursing and terrier racing! They are great sprinters and will take to the lure immediately! The Cesky Terrier is a very versatile breed. They love swimming and have been great dogs to take boating, cross-country skiing & snowshoeing and hiking. Because of their build, cycling and running are a little much for their short legs. The trick is to introduce them to the activity at a young age and in moderation. Basically, they want to be where you are, doing what you do.
Temperament: NOT your typical terrier, this breed gets along well with others and is seldom quarrelsome with others. Standoffish with strangers initially, a Cesky Terrier will usually not run up to greet a stranger to your home, but will be sitting in their lap in minutes, once they know the stranger is welcome. Easy to train, they are sensitive to your tone of voice, and will respond to correction easily. They love to please their masters and take pride in a job well done! Cesky Terriers will become your shadow. They will follow you everywhere and settle when you do. They adjust well to routine, and will stay put in their bed overnight, if that is what you want.