If you’re a dog lover, you may have heard of German Shepherds before. But did you know that there’s a special type of German Shepherd called the Czech German Shepherd? These dogs have a unique history, appearance, and personality that sets them apart from regular German Shepherds.
What is a Czech German Shepherd?
A Czech German Shepherd, also known as a Czechoslovakian German Shepherd, is a type of German Shepherd that originated in Czechoslovakia. They were developed for use in the military and police force due to their high intelligence, strong work ethic, and protective nature.
History of Czech German Shepherds
The Czech German Shepherd is a relatively new breed that was developed in the 1950s in Czechoslovakia. The breed was created by crossing German Shepherds with working-line German Shepherds from Czechoslovakia. The goal was to create a dog with a high drive, strong work ethic, and the ability to excel in police and military work.
The Czech German Shepherd was initially developed for use in the Czechoslovakian military and police force. These dogs were trained to perform a variety of tasks, including search and rescue, tracking, and protection work. They were highly valued for their intelligence, loyalty, and courage.
Over time, the popularity of this dog spread beyond Czechoslovakia, and the breed began to gain recognition in other countries. Today, they are highly sought after for their working ability and are often used by police and military forces worldwide.
Physical Characteristics
the appearance of Czech German Shepherds
The Czech German Shepherd is a medium-sized dog with a very muscular body. It has a long, broad head with a strong muzzle and a black nose. Its ears are medium-sized, pointed at the tip, and drooping over its eyes. The coat of this dog is short and dense, with a thick undercoat that makes it waterproof. Its coat can be any color but is usually black or tan.
How big do Czech German shepherds get
The Czech German Shepherd is a medium-sized dog weighing between 50 and 70 pounds. It has a height range of 24 to 26 inches.
Personality and Temperament
Czech German Shepherds are intelligent and easy to train, but they can be stubborn at times. They are generally good with other dogs and children. They are friendly with strangers, but they are wary of strangers at first.
Czech German Shepherds do not like being left alone for long periods, as they become bored easily if left alone for too long. They are territorial and protective of their family members and their property.
They were bred to herd sheep and protect the shepherd from wolves and other wildlife that would eat the sheep if left unattended, so they often have an instinctual desire to herd people or other animals that may wander across their paths.
Training and Exercise Needs
Czech German Shepherds will need to be trained from an early age by their owners to be able to live with other dogs or cats in the home. If you want your dog to learn how to stay off furniture and not jump up on guests when they come over, you’ll need to teach them that these behaviors aren’t acceptable when they’re young!
Dogs should also be taught basic commands like sit and stay so they don’t wander around the house or run away if left alone for long periods. You’ll also want to train them not to bark too much at night (or during certain times of day) so they don’t disturb your neighbors.
Exercise is another important part of raising Czech Shepherds because it helps keep their minds occupied when you’re out running errands or at work all day long.
Common Health Problems
Like all dog breeds, Czech German Shepherds are prone to certain health problems. While not all will develop these conditions, it’s important for owners to be aware of the potential health issues and to take steps to prevent or manage them.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is common in many large dog breeds, including Czech German Shepherds. This condition occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to pain, lameness, and arthritis. Hip dysplasia is often hereditary, so choosing a breeder who tests their dogs for this condition is important.
Elbow Dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia is similar to hip dysplasia but affects the elbow joint instead. This condition can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis. Like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia is often hereditary and can be prevented by choosing a breeder who tests their dogs for this condition.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive neurological disease that affects many dog breeds, including Czech German Shepherds. This condition causes weakness and loss of coordination in the hind legs and can eventually lead to paralysis. There is no cure for degenerative myelopathy, but early detection and management can help slow the progression of the disease.
Bloat
Bloat, also known as gastric torsion or twisted stomach, is a life-threatening condition that can occur in any dog breed. This condition occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, cutting off blood flow to the organs. Bloat requires immediate veterinary attention and can be prevented by feeding your dog smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding exercise immediately after meals.
Allergies
Czech German Shepherds are prone to allergies, which can cause skin irritation, itching, and other symptoms. Various factors, including food, environmental allergens, and parasites can cause allergies. Treatment for allergies may include medication, dietary changes, and environmental management.
Benefits of owning a Czech German Shepherd
Loyal and Protective
Czech German Shepherds are known for their loyalty and protective nature. They are highly devoted to their owners and will greatly protect their family and home. This makes them excellent guard dogs and a great choice for those who want a dog that can provide a sense of security.
Intelligent and Trainable
They are highly intelligent and trainable dogs. They are quick learners and excel at tasks that require problem-solving and critical thinking. They are often used in police and military work due to their intelligence and ability to learn complex tasks quickly.
Active and Energetic
They are active and energetic dogs requiring much exercise and mental stimulation. This makes them a great choice for owners who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, running, or biking. They also enjoy playing games such as fetch and agility training.
Good with Children
When properly socialized, they can be great with children. They are gentle and patient with kids and can make great family pets. However, it’s important to supervise interactions between children and dogs to ensure that both are safe.
Low Maintenance Coat
Czech German Shepherds have a low-maintenance coat that requires minimal grooming. Their short, dense coat sheds seasonally and only requires occasional brushing to remove loose hair.
Companionship
Perhaps the most significant benefit of owning a Czech German Shepherd is the companionship they provide. They are loyal, loving dogs that form strong bonds with their owners. They are always happy to be by their owner’s side and provide great comfort and companionship.
Where to buy a Czech German Shepherd
If you’re looking for a specific breed or want to adopt from an organization that specializes in dog rescue and adoption, check out the American Kennel Club’s list of CZS breeders here: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/czech-german-shepherd/.
Are Czech German shepherds good family dogs?
Yes, Czech German shepherds are great family dogs. They are very loyal, loving and protective of their owners. They love children and being around other dogs. They are also good at tracking games, making them good hunting dogs.
Czech Shepherd vs. Regular German Shepherd
Origin
The Czech Shepherd was developed in Czechoslovakia in the 1950s by crossing German Shepherds with working-line German Shepherds from Czechoslovakia. On the other hand, the Regular German Shepherd is a breed that originated in Germany in the late 19th century.
Physical Appearance
The Czech Shepherd and Regular German Shepherd have some physical differences. Czech Shepherds tend to have a darker coat color than Regular German Shepherds. They also have a more muscular build and a more angular head shape. Regular German Shepherds have a longer, more sloping back and a more rounded head shape.
Temperament
Czech Shepherds are known for their high drive and strong work ethic. They were developed for use in the Czechoslovakian military and police force and are highly valued for their intelligence, loyalty, and courage. Regular German Shepherds are also intelligent and loyal but tend to have a more laid-back temperament.
Trainability
Both Czech Shepherds and Regular German Shepherds are highly trainable dogs. However, Czech Shepherds are known for their exceptional trainability and ability to learn complex tasks quickly. They are often used in police and military work due to their intelligence and ability to learn quickly.
Health
Czech Shepherds and Regular German Shepherds are both prone to certain health problems, such as hip dysplasia and bloat. However, Czech Shepherds tend to have a lower incidence of hip dysplasia than Regular German Shepherds.
Final Thoughts
Czech German Shepherd dogs are very popular and it is very much in demand. They are strong, healthy and full of vigor. They possess excellent guarding skills with a great deal of intelligence. They can be used to guard shops and houses. Their great strength and power, both physique and mentally, make them an extremely valuable breed physically and mentally.