Cesky Terrier: temperament, size, care and health

About the Cesky Terrier

The Cesky Terrier, pronounced CHESS-key, is a long, low, sturdy terrier about 10 to 13 inches tall, with a long head, a beard and brows, and ears that fold forward. Its coat is soft and silky, in gray-blue shades from charcoal to platinum, or in coffee brown. The body is clipped short, with long hair left on the legs, face, and underside.

The breed was created in Czechoslovakia to hunt in forests, going to ground after foxes and other game. It is milder than most terriers and was designed to work with its handler. Modern Ceskys are kept as companions by people who value the calm temperament and the unusual look.

Temperament and family life

The Cesky is mild-mannered, affectionate, and devoted to its family. It is more easygoing than most terriers, tends to be quiet indoors, and generally does well with children who are gentle. It has a reserved manner with strangers, but it is not aggressive and usually warms up.

Barking is less frequent than in many terriers, though the dog will sound an alert. Most Ceskys get along with other dogs, particularly if socialized early, but the prey drive is still present and small animals may be chased. The breed does not like to be left alone for long hours and can become unhappy or destructive.

Exercise and training

The Cesky requires moderate exercise: a daily walk and some play. It can hike with enthusiasm, and it enjoys scent work, tracking, and earthdog trials. Once exercised, it settles quietly at home, which makes it suited to modest-sized dwellings.

It is one of the more biddable terriers. Training is generally easy when it is based on food and praise, and the breed responds poorly to harsh correction. Early socialization and short lessons give a steady companion. Housebreaking is usually straightforward. As with any terrier, a fenced yard and a leash are needed around wildlife.

Grooming and shedding

The Cesky sheds very little, but it is not a wash-and-wear dog. The soft coat tangles, so it should be brushed and combed several times a week, especially the long hair on the legs and beard. The body is clipped every six to eight weeks into the characteristic pattern.

The beard needs washing after meals, and the ears should be checked and kept clean. Trim nails and brush teeth. Professional grooming is a standing cost.

Health

The breed is considered generally healthy, but it has a small gene pool. Scottie cramp, a movement disorder seen in Scottish Terriers, occurs in some Ceskys, and kneecap luxation, hip dysplasia, and glaucoma have been reported. Responsible breeders select carefully and may screen hips, knees, and eyes and keep detailed pedigrees.

This overview is general; a veterinarian is the one to ask about how a given Cesky Terrier is doing.

History

The Cesky Terrier was developed beginning in 1948 by Frantisek Horak, a Czech breeder, who crossed a Scottish Terrier with a Sealyham Terrier to create a hunting terrier suited to the forests of Bohemia. He wanted a dog with a softer temperament and a lighter build than the existing terriers. The breed was recognized by Czech authorities and then by international kennel clubs, and it is one of the youngest terrier breeds.

Is the Cesky Terrier right for you?

A Cesky suits people who want a quiet, adaptable, low-shedding terrier and are willing to arrange regular grooming. It fits an apartment with daily walks and can live with children and other pets that are introduced carefully. It is a less suitable choice for those who want a high-octane working terrier or a bold guard dog.

The Sealyham Terrier and the Scottish Terrier are its ancestors, and the Dandie Dinmont Terrier shares the long, low build. The Norfolk Terrier is more energetic and has a harsher coat.