The Bohemian Shepherd dog is a breed of sheepdog. It is a very old breed which was first used as a guard and herding dog. It is also known by some other names such as Chodský pes, Czech Sheepdog, Bohemian Herder and Chodenhund.
The Bohemian Shepherd dog breed was originated in the Czech Republic around the 1300s in the Chodsko region. It was first used as guard dog and herding dog, but today the breed makes great family pets who will protect and watch over their humans.
The breed has been also guarding Bohemian southwestern borders and homes in the area of the Chod region. ‘Chodove’, (the Chods), the local people living there, had an exceptional permission to hold large dogs for this purpose.
Alois Jirásek, 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 Mikoláš Aleš. The symbol of the Chodský pes is still on Czech young scout’s badges.[1]
As the Bohemian Shepherd dog is an old breed, it is possibly also one of the predecessors to the German Shepherd with the Old German Herding landrace dogs. The breed is known to have existed in the Czech lands as far back as the 14th Century, and having been professionally bred as early as the 16th century (centuries before the Germans decided to try to make their own national breed).
In the year of 1984, a modern breeding program for this breed was started, and there are now many breeders. About 3000 registered pups have been born since the program started. Therefore, there is no proof that they are related to the German Shepherd dogs.
Bohemian Shepherd Dog Characteristics
The Bohemian Shepherd dogs are medium in size and they are very beautiful. They have long, thick fur and a rich undercoat that allow them to survive in harsh weathers.
Their body is compact and is 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.
Coat color of these dogs is black and tan. The tan markings appear above the eyes, around the ears, on the muzzle and on feet and underside.
The Bohemian Shepherd dogs are medium in size. Their average body height is between 19 and 22 inches at the withers. And their average weight is between 16 and 27 kg.
Temperament
The Bohemian Shepherd is an ideal dog for someone who is very active. This breed is very energetic but not aggressive. They can be trained easily and relates well to children and other pets.
Great agility and a keen sense of smell of this breed make it a very good rescue dog. It is a great companion dog for handicapped people, and an outstanding watch dog.
The Bohemian Shepherd dog has a stable, calm and friendly temperament that allows the breed to be good with the owner, it’s family and especially with children.
Lifespan
Average lifespan of the Bohemian Shepherd dog breed is between 9 and 13 years.
Feeding
How much a mature dog eats depends on it’s size, age, build, metabolism and activity level. Dogs are individuals, just like people, and they don’t all need the same amount of food.
The Bohemian Shepherd dogs are very active and medium in size. So, their diet should be formulated for a medium sized breed with high exercise needs. You can also consult with a vet in your area for better recommendations.
Caring
Taking good care of the animals is very important for raising Bohemian Shepherd dogs. These dogs when they are puppies, will have higher energy needs since this is a herding breed. So, they will need both physically and mentally stimulating activities.
Agility training, obedience training, or a trip to the dog park to socialize with other dogs are all great examples of how to burn off that energy. Ensure that you give your dog at least one hour long walk daily, especially if you live in an apartment or don’t have a fenced in yard.
The Bohemian Shepherd dogs have long hair, so ensure to check their ears daily for pests and debris, especially since they have hairy ears. Trim your dog’s nail as instructed by your vet.
Health
The Bohemian Shepherd dogs are generally healthy. But like all other dog breeds, they are also prone to certain health conditions.
Their common health problems include hip or elbow dysplasia, bloat, eye conditions and ear infections. Always try to keep good contact with a vet in your area.
| Breed Name | Bohemian Shepherd |
| Other Names | Also known by some other names such as Chodský pes, Czech Sheepdog, Bohemian Herder and Chodenhund |
| Breed Size | Medium |
| Height | Between 19 and 22 inches at the withers |
| Weight | Between 16 and 27 kg |
| Good as pets | Yes |
| Climate Tolerance | All climates |
| Color | Black and tan |
| Lifespan | Between 9 and 13 years |
| Good for children | Yes |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country of Origin | Czech Republic |
