Bohemian Shepherd Dog Breed Information, Puppies & Breeders 

Are you considering adding a Bohemian Shepherd breed dog to your family? If so, you are about to embark on a journey with one of the most loyal and intelligent dog breeds out there. Also known as the Chodsky Pes, these dogs are a rare and unique breed that originated in the Czech Republic. They are known for their strong work ethic, high energy levels, and their love for their human companions. If you are looking for a dog that will be your loyal companion, the Bohemian Shepherd might be the perfect fit for you.

Breed Category: Herding
Country of Origin: Czech Republic
Average Size:50-60 cm
Average Weight:20-30 kg
Average Life Span: 12-15 years
Grooming Requirements: Moderate
Exercise Requirements:High

History and Origin

The Bohemian Shepherd, also known as the Chodský pes, is a breed of dog that originated in the Czech Republic. This breed is believed to have been developed in the 14th century by the Chodové people, who were a group of Czechs that lived in the border region between Bohemia and Bavaria. The Chodové people were known for their resistance against foreign invaders, and they needed a dog that could help them in their fight. The Bohemian Shepherd was bred to be a versatile working dog that could hunt, guard, and protect its owners.

The Bohemian Shepherd is a medium-sized dog that has a muscular and athletic build. It has a thick coat that is usually black or dark grey, and it has a distinctive white spot on its chest. This breed is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and courage. It is a highly trainable dog that can be used for a variety of tasks, including hunting, herding, and search and rescue. The Bohemian Shepherd is also a great family dog that is good with children and other pets.

The Chodové people were known for their resistance against foreign invaders, and they needed a dog that could help them in their fight. The Bohemian Shepherd was bred to be a versatile working dog that could hunt, guard, and protect its owners. This breed was used to hunt wild boar, deer, and other game, and it was also used to guard the Chodové people’s homes and livestock. The Bohemian Shepherd was also used as a messenger dog during times of war, and it was trained to carry messages between the Chodové people’s villages.

The Bohemian Shepherd was recognized as a breed by the Czechoslovakian Kennel Club in 1965. Since then, the breed has become popular in the Czech Republic and other parts of Europe. The Bohemian Shepherd is still used as a working dog today, and it is also kept as a companion dog. This breed is known for its loyalty and devotion to its owners, and it is a great family dog that is good with children and other pets.

In conclusion, the Bohemian Shepherd is a breed of dog that originated in the Czech Republic. It was developed by the Chodové people in the 14th century to be a versatile working

Size and Breed Category

The Bohemian Shepherd is a medium-sized dog breed that originated in the Czech Republic. They are known for their athletic build and agile movements, making them excellent working dogs. The breed typically weighs between 20-30 kg and stands at a height of 52-60 cm at the shoulder. Their coat is thick and dense, with a soft undercoat and a longer, coarser outer coat. The coat can come in a variety of colours, including black, sable, and grey. Bohemian Shepherds have a distinctive wolf-like appearance, with pointed ears and a long, bushy tail. They are a highly intelligent breed and require plenty of mental and physical stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.

Bohemian Shepherds fall into the herding dog category, as they were originally bred to work alongside farmers and shepherds. They are highly trainable and excel in obedience and agility competitions. The breed is known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them excellent family pets. However, they can be wary of strangers and require early socialisation to prevent any aggressive behaviour. Bohemian Shepherds are an active breed and require plenty of exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. They are well-suited to outdoor activities such as hiking and running, and thrive in homes with large yards or access to open spaces. Overall, the Bohemian Shepherd is a versatile and intelligent breed that makes a great companion for active families.

Fur Length and Colour

The fur of the Bohemian Shepherd is typically long and thick, providing excellent insulation against cold weather. The fur is also quite soft to the touch, making it a pleasure to pet and stroke. The fur can come in a variety of colours, including black, white, and shades of brown. Some Bohemian Shepherds may have a mix of colours in their fur, creating a unique and eye-catching appearance. The fur on the tail is particularly long and bushy, adding to the breed’s distinctive look. Overall, the fur of the Bohemian Shepherd is a defining characteristic of the breed, providing both practical and aesthetic benefits.

The colour of the Bohemian Shepherd’s fur can vary depending on the individual dog. Some may have a solid colour throughout their coat, while others may have a mix of colours or patterns. The most common colours are black, white, and shades of brown, but other colours such as grey and red can also be seen. The fur may also have highlights or shading, adding depth and texture to the coat. The colour of the fur can be influenced by genetics, environment, and diet, making each Bohemian Shepherd’s coat unique. Despite the variation in colour, the fur of the Bohemian Shepherd is always long and thick, providing warmth and protection in cold weather.

Termperament and Trainability

Bohemian Shepherds are known for their high energy levels and playful temperament. They are a breed that thrives on physical activity and mental stimulation, making them an excellent choice for active families or individuals who enjoy spending time outdoors. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them highly trainable, and they excel in obedience and agility competitions. However, their strong-willed nature can sometimes make them a challenge to train, and they require a firm and consistent approach to ensure they understand what is expected of them. Overall, Bohemian Shepherds are a lively and intelligent breed that requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.

Bohemian Shepherds are also known for their loyalty and affectionate nature towards their owners. They are a breed that forms strong bonds with their family and can be protective of them if they sense a threat. However, they can also be wary of strangers and require early socialization to ensure they are comfortable around new people and situations. Their high energy levels and need for mental stimulation mean they are not well-suited to apartment living and require a home with a yard or access to plenty of outdoor space. Overall, Bohemian Shepherds are a loving and loyal breed that requires plenty of attention and exercise to keep them happy and healthy.

Known Health Conditions

Bohemian Shepherds are prone to certain health conditions that owners should be aware of. One of the most common issues is hip dysplasia, which is a genetic condition that affects the hip joint. This can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis in the affected joint. Owners should ensure that their Bohemian Shepherd is screened for hip dysplasia before breeding or purchasing a puppy. Other orthopedic issues that may affect this breed include elbow dysplasia and patellar luxation.

Another health concern for Bohemian Shepherds is bloat, also known as gastric torsion. This is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, cutting off blood flow to the organs. Symptoms include restlessness, drooling, and a distended abdomen. Owners should take precautions to prevent bloat, such as feeding smaller meals throughout the day instead of one large meal, avoiding exercise immediately after eating, and using a raised feeding bowl. Additionally, Bohemian Shepherds may be prone to allergies, skin conditions, and eye problems, so regular veterinary check-ups are important.

Openness to Strangers

Bohemian Shepherds are known for their friendly and welcoming nature towards strangers. They are a breed that is always eager to meet new people and make new friends. Their open and sociable personality makes them a popular choice for families with children, as they are patient and gentle with kids. Bohemian Shepherds are also known to be very loyal to their owners, and will often follow them around wherever they go. They are a breed that thrives on human interaction and attention, and will often seek out affection from their owners and strangers alike.

Despite their friendly nature, Bohemian Shepherds can be quite protective of their owners and their home. They are a breed that is naturally alert and will bark to alert their owners of any potential danger. However, they are not aggressive and will only act defensively if they feel that their family is in danger. Bohemian Shepherds are also known to be very intelligent and trainable, making them a popular choice for obedience and agility competitions. Their friendly and outgoing personality, combined with their protective instincts, make them a well-rounded breed that is well-suited to a variety of different lifestyles.

Playfulness Level

The Bohemian Shepherd is a highly energetic and playful dog that loves to be active. They are known for their love of play and their ability to keep up with their owners during long walks or runs. This breed is always up for a game of fetch or a run around the park, making them a great choice for active families or individuals who enjoy spending time outdoors. Their playful nature also makes them great with children, as they love to run and play with kids of all ages.

In addition to their love of play, the Bohemian Shepherd is also a highly intelligent breed. They are quick learners and enjoy being challenged with new games and activities. This makes them a great choice for owners who are looking for a dog that can be trained to do a variety of tasks, from agility training to obedience work. Their playful nature and intelligence also make them great candidates for dog sports, such as flyball or frisbee. Overall, the Bohemian Shepherd is a fun-loving and playful breed that is sure to bring joy and energy to any household.

Suitability as a Pet for Children

Bohemian Shepherds are a highly intelligent and active breed, making them a great choice for families with children who are looking for a loyal and energetic companion. With their friendly and affectionate nature, they are known to be excellent with children and are often described as being very patient and gentle. As a medium-sized breed, they are well-suited to living in a variety of different homes, from apartments to larger houses with gardens. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation, so families who enjoy spending time outdoors and engaging in activities such as hiking or running would be a good match for this breed.

Exercise Needs

Bohemian Shepherds require a significant amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. As an active breed, they need at least 60 minutes of daily exercise, which can include long walks, runs, or hikes. They also enjoy playing games such as fetch or agility training, which can help keep them mentally stimulated. It is important to note that Bohemian Shepherds have a high prey drive, so they should always be kept on a leash or in a secure area when exercising outdoors.

In addition to physical exercise, Bohemian Shepherds also benefit from mental stimulation. They are intelligent dogs that enjoy learning new tricks and commands, so training sessions can be a great way to provide mental exercise. Puzzle toys and interactive games can also help keep their minds engaged. It is important to provide a variety of activities to prevent boredom, as this breed can become destructive if they are not given enough mental and physical stimulation. Overall, Bohemian Shepherds thrive in active households that can provide them with plenty of opportunities to exercise and learn.

Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family

Bohemian Shepherds have a reputation for being friendly towards other pets in the household. They are known to get along well with cats and other dogs, as long as they are socialized properly from a young age. It is important to supervise interactions between pets, especially during the initial introduction period. Bohemian Shepherds are generally not aggressive towards other animals, but like any breed, individual temperament can vary.

Housing Requirements

Bohemian Shepherds require a spacious and comfortable living environment that can accommodate their active and energetic nature. They need a home with a large yard or garden where they can run and play freely. The yard should be securely fenced to prevent them from escaping and getting lost. Bohemian Shepherds also need a warm and cozy indoor space where they can rest and sleep comfortably. The indoor space should be well-ventilated and have enough room for them to move around freely. Additionally, Bohemian Shepherds require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them healthy and happy. They enjoy going for long walks, playing fetch, and participating in agility training.

Bohemian Shepherds also require a balanced and nutritious diet to maintain their health and wellbeing. They need a diet that is high in protein and low in fat to support their active lifestyle. It is important to feed them high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for their breed and size. Bohemian Shepherds also need access to clean and fresh water at all times. In addition to a healthy diet, they require regular grooming to keep their coat clean and shiny. They need to be brushed regularly to prevent matting and tangling of their fur. Bohemian Shepherds also need regular baths to keep their skin and coat healthy.

Summary

Bohemian Shepherds have a friendly and loyal temperament, making them a great choice for a family pet. They are intelligent and easy to train, making them suitable for first-time dog owners. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation, but are adaptable to different living situations, including apartments. Overall, Bohemian Shepherds make great companions for those looking for a loving and trainable pet.

Bohemian Shepherd Dog FAQS

Helena Wittgenstein

Helena is aSenior Associate Veterinarian at Kleintierpraxis Wandsbek and an avid dog breed author.