Bohemian Shepherd (Chodský pes)

The Bohemian Shepherd, known in its native Czech Republic as the Chodský pes, is an ancient herding breed with a history that can be traced back to the 14th century in the Chod region of southwestern Bohemia. These versatile and intelligent dogs were indispensable to the Chodové people, who were historically tasked with guarding the Bohemian borders. The Chodský pes served as their loyal companions, assisting in herding livestock, guarding homes and property, and even tracking game or accompanying their masters on patrol.

Depictions of dogs closely resembling the Bohemian Shepherd can be found in historical literature and art from the region. For centuries, they were valued for their trainability, hardiness, and unwavering devotion. Like many European breeds, the Bohemian Shepherd faced a decline in numbers in the early 20th century. However, dedicated efforts were made to revive the breed starting in the mid-1980s, based on remaining individuals that fit the historical descriptions. The breed was officially recognized by the Czech Kennel Club in 1985 and has since gained provisional recognition from the FCI. While still relatively rare outside of the Czech Republic and Slovakia, it is gaining appreciation for its intelligence, versatility, and loyal temperament.

The Bohemian Shepherd is characterized by its high intelligence, lively spirit, and deep loyalty to its family. They are active and agile dogs that thrive on having a purpose and being involved in activities with their owners. Known for being eager to please, they are generally very trainable and responsive. With their families, Bohemian Shepherds are typically affectionate, gentle, and playful, often forming strong bonds with all members, including children with whom they are raised. They are alert and observant, making them excellent watchdogs that will readily announce strangers or unusual sounds, but they are not typically aggressive without reason.

While devoted to their inner circle, they can be somewhat reserved or wary of unfamiliar people, a trait common in many herding and guarding breeds. Early and consistent socialization is crucial to ensure they grow into well-adjusted and confident adults. They are intelligent enough to get bored easily if not provided with sufficient mental stimulation and can sometimes have an independent streak. They generally get along well with other dogs and pets if properly introduced and socialized from a young age. Their balanced temperament makes them versatile companions for active families.

The Bohemian Shepherd has a beautiful long, thick, and straight or slightly wavy double coat, with a well-developed, soft undercoat. The outer coat is harsher and provides excellent weather resistance. Their distinctive coloration is black to gunmetal black with rich tan (rust or mahogany) markings on the cheeks, muzzle, throat, chest, inner thighs, legs, and under the tail.

This impressive coat requires regular grooming to keep it healthy, clean, and free from mats. Brushing two to three times a week with a pin brush, slicker brush, and an undercoat rake (especially during shedding season) is recommended to remove loose dead hair and prevent tangles. They are moderate to heavy shedders, particularly during their seasonal “coat blows.” Baths should be given as needed. The longer hair on the ears, legs, and tail may require extra attention to prevent matting. Regular nail trims, ear cleaning, and dental care are also important components of their grooming routine.

Bohemian Shepherds are energetic and agile dogs that require a good amount of daily exercise and, equally importantly, mental stimulation to thrive. They were bred as versatile working farm dogs and retain a strong drive for activity and purpose. A bored Bohemian Shepherd can become restless or develop undesirable behaviors.

Aim for at least an hour or more of varied activity per day. Excellent exercise options for a Bohemian Shepherd include:

• Long, brisk walks, jogging, or running alongside a bicycle (once fully mature and conditioned).
• Off-leash play in a large, securely fenced area. They enjoy games like fetch or frisbee.
• Canine sports: Their intelligence, agility, and trainability make them excel in herding trials, agility, obedience, rally, tracking, and even search and rescue.
• Hiking in varied terrain.
• Interactive puzzle toys and learning new tricks to keep their sharp minds engaged.

Without a consistent outlet for their physical and mental energy, Bohemian Shepherds can become frustrated. They are happiest when they have a “job” to do and are actively involved with their owners.

The Bohemian Shepherd is generally considered a healthy and robust breed, benefiting from a history where function was prioritized. However, like all breeds, they can be susceptible to certain genetic health conditions. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for these issues. Potential health concerns, though the breed is not plagued by widespread issues, might include:

• Hip Dysplasia: A common concern in many medium to large breeds, involving malformation of the hip joint. Elbow dysplasia can also occur. Screening is important for breeding stock.
• Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus – GDV):** A risk for deep-chested breeds, though perhaps less so than in giant breeds.
• Eye Conditions: While not highly prevalent, general screening for conditions like Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) or cataracts is advisable for breeding stock.
• Degenerative Myelopathy (DM):** A progressive disease of the spinal cord; DNA testing is available for many breeds and should be considered.