Bohemian Shepherd: temperament, price, health, and breeders

The origins of the Bohemian Shepherd date back to the 14th century, in the historic region of Bohemia. The Chodové, established in the south-west of what is now the Czech Republic, used these dogs to guard the borders, farms and herds. Having become rare during the 20th century, the old type was the subject of a reconstitution program from the 1980s. The breed was recognized at national level by the Czech Cynological Union in 1984, then a dedicated club was founded in 1991. Also called Chodský pes, the Bohemian Shepherd obtained provisional recognition from the Fédération Cynologique Internationale in 2019 and belongs to group 1.

The Bohemian Shepherd is a medium-sized dog, compact, harmonious and slightly longer than tall. Its topline is horizontal and its gaits are regular, light and extended. Its wedge-shaped head has a black nose, almond-shaped eyes ranging from light brown to dark brown and triangular ears, erect and set high. Its long and dense coat, with a thick undercoat, forms more volume on the neck and chest. The coat is black with characteristic tan markings, notably on the limbs and head. The tail is carried hanging with a slight curve.

Courageous, attentive and well-balanced, the Bohemian Shepherd has a strong protective instinct without being unnecessarily aggressive. He is very attached to his owner and family, affectionate with children and reserved with strangers. His intelligence, his docility and his desire to cooperate make him a versatile companion, capable of succeeding in obedience, agility, tracking, rescue or hiking. Early socialization promotes good relationships with other animals.

Active and hard-working, this shepherd needs to share the life of its household and does not cope well with prolonged inactivity. It enjoys long walks, varied exercises and activities that engage its sense of smell and its thinking. A house with a fenced garden suits it particularly well, but the garden never replaces outings. Urban life remains possible if its physical and mental needs are fully met; an apartment is less suited to its level of activity.

Attentive, docile and eager to please, the Bohemian Shepherd is generally easy to train. Its training must start early and combine consistency, clear rules, rewards and short, varied sessions. Firmness must remain calm and free of brutality. Recall, leash walking, control of excitement and socialization with people, dogs and different environments are priorities. Its intelligence also requires regular activities to avoid boredom.

The price of a Bohemian Shepherd varies depending on the quality of the selection, health screenings, the pedigree, the reputation of the breeding kennel and the puppy’s intended purpose. The breed’s relative rarity in France can also influence availability and travel costs.

The Bohemian Shepherd is a rustic and generally hardy dog. Its double coat protects it effectively from cold, humidity and, to a certain extent, from temperature variations. The breed nevertheless remains concerned by a few hereditary or orthopedic conditions, which justifies the choice of screened breeding dogs and regular veterinary monitoring.

Its diet must cover the needs of a very active medium-sized dog while maintaining a lean silhouette. The ration depends on its age, its weight, its activity level, its physiological condition and the energy density of the food.

The Czech name Chodský pes literally means dog of the Chods, in reference to the people once tasked with guarding the borders of Bohemia. Its black and tan silhouette may recall that of a small long-haired German Shepherd, but it is a distinct breed, lighter and stemming from its own Czech history. Its modern versatility extends its former abilities as a guard and herding dog.