Cesky Terrier Dog Breed

The Cesky Terrier, as its name suggests, is a member of the Terrier Group of breeds. First developed in Czechoslovakia in the mid-20th century as a vermin hunter, the Cesky is more mellow and affectionate than most terrier breeds, and thus will make a great companion to families of any size. A few Cesky Terrier facts:

• Small-sized (average of 12 inches at the shoulders in height and 19 pounds in weight)
• Softer coat than other terrier breeds
• Fairly rare in North America
• Coat has long furnishings on face, legs, and underbelly
• AKC Rank: 182 of 194

And some advantages and drawbacks to owning the breed:

Known as one of the more laid-back terrier breeds, the Cesky is relatively calm and friendly--but dogs of this breed still have the classic terrier traits of boldness, digging tendencies, territoriality, and stubbornness.

Though not a "brainiac" breed, the Cesky is intelligent enough, and will usually respond well to training--when it wants to. Like other terriers, Ceskys can be stubborn and crafty, and may need some extra time to learn tasks and commands, but when they learn something they practically never forget it!

The Cesky, though rare, is cherished by its owners because it mixes the scrappy terrier personality with calmness and love. These dogs are good playmates for the kids, while also being alert and protective enough to make good watchdogs; they have loud, booming barks that can make them sound much larger than they really are. They also have a deep love for anything edible--including toys, which will need to be replaced often!--so owners will need to closely monitor their Ceskys' diets to make sure the dogs don't gain too much weight.

And one way to help keep a Cesky from getting too fat: consistent exercise. These little dogs have moderate exercise needs, and will require a variety of physical activities that stimulate them mentally as well as physically.

Active but mellow, friendly, protective, and at times stubborn, the Cesky Terrier temperament is one that combines spunk and affection. Though they're considered a "chill" terrier breed, Ceskys still exhibit the classic terrier qualities: they're not great with other dogs, they can be stubborn and independent, and they love to dig and chew. And their history as small game and vermin hunters gives these dogs high prey drives, so they will instinctively try to injure rodents, birds, and other small pets.

Al that aside, the Cesky can be very affectionate and loving. Though as puppies these dogs will be extremely energetic, once mature they usually settle into being friendlier, calmer animals, and will make great additions to any family--if said family is lucky enough to find one!

And though fairly smart and trainable, Ceskys can be a bit hard to teach because of their stubbornness. Owners should use consistent, positive, reward-based training methods with these dogs--and don't be surprised if teaching tasks and commands takes a few repetitions. The Cesky is just taking extra time to decide whether it wants to learn what you're teaching! And as with any breed, harsh training styles are not recommended.

Ceskys, will make great watchdogs too. Though not overly "yappy," they're alert, bold, and curious, and should sound a vocal alarm if confronted with a potential threat.

Though considered healthy overall, Cesky Terriers can suffer various eye issues including lens luxation, and they can be prone to joint problems like hip dysplasia and luxating patella. A few Ceskys may also develop Scottie Cramp, a non-threatening neurological condition that affects limb movement and balance.

Life expectancy for the Cesky Terrier is 10-15 years.