Photo: Klub přátel chodského psa
The Bohemian Shepherd Dog, along with the Prague Ratter, is one of the oldest Czech dog breeds. It was originally used as a guard dog and a herding dog. Today it is mainly kept as a family pet, due to its friendly and gentle nature. Ruth Fraňková has more in today’s edition of our mini-series dedicated to original Czech dog breeds.
The history of the Bohemian Shepherd Dog dates all the way back to the 1300s. The breed originated in the west Bohemian region of Chodsko, hence its Czech name Chodský pes, but it is also known as Bohemian Herder, Czech Sheepdog or Chodenhund.
Bohemian Shepherds were used by local frontiersmen – the Chods – to guard the southwestern border of the Bohemian kingdom, but they were also kept at homes to herd sheep and protect people’s dwellings.
The Bohemian Shepherd is a medium-sized dog, with long, thick fur and a rich undercoat, which allows it to survive in harsh weather conditions. It has a compact and well-proportioned body with high set, pointed ears, and a long, elegant neckline.
Bohemian Shepherds are classified as a working sheepdog breed, but thanks to their friendly nature and high intelligence, they are used for various purposes today: as service animals, therapy dogs, as well as for search and rescue and scent tracking, says breeder Vladimíra Tichá.
“A lay person might mistake the Bohemian Shepherd Dog for a German Shepherd, but it is smaller and has a straighter back and longer, black coat.”
“It is an absolutely wonderful breed for service training. You can use it for agility, but it can also accompany you on a skiing trip to the mountains and run along by your bike.”
See the rest here.
Author: Ruth Fraňková