Bohemian Shepherd
Woof!
Chodský pes is an old sheepdog breed. They have been also guarding Bohemian southwestern borders and homes in the area (Chod region around Domažlice town). “Chodové” (the Chods), the local people living there, had an exceptional permission to hold large dogs for this purpose.
In 5 Words
- Active
- Energy
- Not Aggressive
- Keen sense
- Agility
SnapShot
Size:
Males – 48 to 56 cm (19 to 22 inches)
Females – 48 to 56 cm (19 to 22 inches)
Weight:
Males – 16 to 25 kg (35 to 55 lb)
Females – 16 to 25 kg (35 to 55 lb)
Origin: Czech Republic
Life Span: 12 – 15 Years
Colour: Black & Tan
Litter Size: 2 to 6 puppies
Characteristics
Learn About the Bohemian Shepherd
Chodský pes is an old sheepdog breed. They have been also guarding Czech southern borders and homes in the area. “Chodove”, the local people living there, had an exceptional permission to hold large dogs for this purpose. Alois Jirasek, writing about a brave uprising of the local people, even assigned these dogs as a flag symbol of them. Though that is actually incorrect, the symbol became part of national knowledge due to drawings of a well known Czech painter Mikolas Ales. The symbol of the chodský pes is still on Czech young scouts badges.
As the breed of chodský pes is old, it is possibly also one of the predecessors to the German Shepherd. Chodský pes is known to exist in the Czech lands as far back as the 14th century, and having been professionally bred as early as the 16th century. A modern breeding program for this dog was started in 1984 and there are now many breeders. About 3500 registered pups have been born since the program started (1984–2009).
The Bohemian Shepherd has a medium size and length (19 to 22 inches in height and weigh about 35-55 lbs). Long thick fur and a rich undercoat that allows him to survive in harsh weathers. The body is compact and well proportioned with High set, small, pointed, erect ears and a long elegant neckline. A fluid, light and unhurried gait is one of the typical characteristics of this breed.
The Bohemian Shepherd is an excellent choice for active people. They are extremely smart and possess great drive and high energy. They are quick to learn and can be easily trained. They perform well at agility, rescuing, and service training. They aren’t aggressive and they are patient, understanding, and good with children, dogs, and other pets. This breed is often used as a working dog for handicapped persons. They also make great watch dogs. Because of good breeding, the Bohemian Shepherd possesses a great temperament that is free from unstable, nervous, or aggressive behavior. They have a number of natural talents like sledding, guiding, rescue work, and herding. They require good training so that these abilities can be brought forth.
While the Bohemian Shepherd is typically known as a healthy and hearty breed, they do suffer from a few health problems, including: hip dysplasia, primary lens luxation – dislocation of the lens, entropian – folding inward of the eye lid, ectropian – folding outward of the eye lid, chronic ear infection, and bloat.
Low maintenance, despite the long hair. Normal shedding in the summer, of course, as would be expected with any other shepherd type.
