Cesky Terrier
Also known as: Czech Terrier, Bohemian Terrier
Energy Level
Apartment Friendly
Weight (Male)
14-24 lbs
Height (Male)
10-13 inches
Quick Facts
Coat Colors
Breed Summary
The Cesky Terrier is a rare, calm terrier breed created in the Czech Republic. Bred by geneticist Frantisek Horak, they combine hunting ability with a gentle, family-friendly temperament uncommon in terriers.
History
Created by Czech geneticist Frantisek Horak in 1948 by crossing a Sealyham Terrier with a Scottish Terrier. Horak wanted a terrier that could hunt in packs and in burrows. One of six most rare dog breeds worldwide. AKC recognized in 2011.
Appearance
A short-legged, well-muscled terrier with a long, silky coat that is clipped rather than hand-stripped. Bushy eyebrows, beard, and mustache. Long, triangle-shaped head. Graceful, flowing appearance.
Temperament
Calmer and more patient than most terriers. Cesky Terriers are loyal, playful, and sweet-natured. They are less aggressive and less intense than their terrier cousins, making them excellent family dogs.
Personality Around Others
Good with everyone including children, other dogs, and strangers. One of the least aggressive terrier breeds. Gentle and patient. Adaptable to various social situations.
Exercise Needs
Moderate exercise needs. Daily walks and play. They enjoy outdoor activities but also content to relax. Not as hyperactive as many terriers.
Training
Intelligent and willing to learn. Respond well to gentle, positive training. Sensitive—avoid harsh methods. Good food motivation.
Grooming
Coat is clipped every 6-8 weeks rather than hand-stripped. Regular brushing to prevent tangles. The silky coat needs consistent care.
Health
Common Health Conditions
Generally healthy breed. Limited gene pool due to rarity. Health testing by breeders is important. Few breed-specific issues.
Recommended Health Tests
- Cardiac Exam
- Patellar Evaluation
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
Average Annual Vet Cost
$600-$1,200
Nutrition
Quality food for small active breeds. Two meals daily. Not prone to obesity. Moderate appetite.
Living Environment
Excellent apartment dogs. Calm indoors. Enjoy walks and play. Adaptable to various living situations.
Ideal Family
Families wanting a calm, friendly terrier. Great first-time terrier owners. Apartment dwellers. Seniors wanting a gentle companion.
Intelligence
Intelligent and trainable. They learn quickly and retain lessons well. Less stubborn than most terriers. Good at canine sports.
Barking
Frequency
Alert
Separation
Quiet Indoors
One of the quieter terrier breeds. They alert when needed but are not nuisance barkers.
Shedding
Year-Round
Seasonal
Vacuum Factor 🧹
Hypoallergenic
Low shedding with regular grooming. Silky coat needs professional clipping. Good for allergy sufferers.
Weather Tolerance
☀️
Heat
❄️
Cold
🌧️
Rain
🌨️
Snow
💧
Humidity
Breed Ratings
Fun Facts
One of the rarest dog breeds in the world
Created by a Czech geneticist who planned the crossbreeding scientifically
The only breed that is clipped rather than hand-stripped
National breed of the Czech Republic
Frantisek Horak kept detailed breeding records for decades
Famous Dogs
Javor Lovu Zdar
One of the original Cesky Terriers bred by Frantisek Horak—the foundation of the modern breed
Common Myths
"They're just mixed breed terriers"
They were scientifically developed by a geneticist with a specific breeding plan spanning decades
"Rare breeds are unhealthy"
Cesky Terriers are generally healthy with few breed-specific issues thanks to careful breeding
Frequently Asked Questions
How rare are they?
Very rare—one of the six rarest breeds worldwide. Only a few hundred exist in the US.
Are they different from other terriers?
Yes—calmer, gentler, and less aggressive than most terrier breeds, making them excellent family companions.
Puppy Guide
Cesky puppies are gentle and curious. Socialize broadly. Start grooming early. They mature into calm, well-mannered adults.
Senior Care
Senior Ceskys remain calm and affectionate. Watch for cardiac issues. Moderate exercise. Their gentle nature makes them easy seniors.
Ownership Costs
Estimated Lifetime Cost
$13,000-$20,000
Pros and Cons
Pros
Calm for a terrier
Good with children
Low shedding
Excellent apartment dog
Friendly temperament
Cons
Very rare and hard to find
Needs regular professional grooming
Limited gene pool
Higher puppy prices
May have separation anxiety