Cesky Terriers: What's Good About 'Em, What's Bad About 'Em

Though short-legged, the Cesky Terrier is NOT a small dog. His long body is much heavier and more substantial than you might think.

The rugged, persistent Cesky Terrier has more hunting instincts than some other terriers. When he is outdoors, his large inquisitive nose is usually glued to the ground in search of prey that he can chase and kill.

But indoors he is calm and laid-back, with a sweet disposition toward his family and other pets.

Given moderate exercise in a safely enclosed yard or dog parkand given lots of personal attention (he doesn't like being left alone for long periods), the Cesky Terrier can fit into a small city home as readily as a sprawling country estate.

With strangers, Cesky Terriers are usually reserved but polite, though early socialization is a must to develop this attitude.

With other dogs and cats, he is more sociable than most terriers. Squirrels and other rodents, however, will be chased with determination.

Though he has his stubborn, independent streak, he responds pretty well to training that includes lots of praise and a few treats.

Just go easy on the treats so that he doesn't pack on weight. This may be easier said than done, as he tends to be a food thief whose long reach, when standing on his hind legs, can result in the birthday cake vanishing off the kitchen countertop.

And unfortunately, it isn't only food that Cesky Terriers like to eat. They are noted for swallowing inedible objects, which may lead to a frantic night in the veterinary emergency room.

If you want a dog who...

Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training.

• You can avoid some negative traits by choosing an ADULT dog from an animal shelter or rescue group. With an adult dog, you can easily see what you're getting, and plenty of adult Cesky Terriers have already proven themselves not to have negative characteristics.
• If you want a puppy, you can avoid some negative traits by choosing the right breeder and the right puppy. Unfortunately, you usually can't tell whether a puppy has inherited temperament or health problems until he grows up.
• Finally, you can avoid some negative traits by training your Cesky Terrier to respect you and by following the 11-step care program in my book, 11 Things You Must Do Right To Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy.

More traits and characteristics of the Cesky Terrier

If I was considering a Cesky Terrier, I would be most concerned about...

1. Providing enough exercise. With their short legs and long back, Cesky Terriers don't need miles of running exercise, but they do need regular opportunities to vent their energy – in a FENCED area. Like all dogs, Cesky Terriers must be taught to come when called. But I would only count on this breed obeying his training in an enclosed area. The risk is too great that they will take off after anything that runs, oblivious to your frantic shouts.
2. Providing enough socialization. Cesky Terriers are often standoffish with strangers. They need extensive exposure to people so that their natural caution doesn't become suspiciousness or shyness, which are difficult to live with.
3. Grooming. To keep their coat short and free of mats, Cesky Terriers require regular brushing, plus trimming and clipping every few months.
4. Mind of their own. Though more amenable to training than some other terriers, Cesky Terriers must still be taught at an early age that they are not the rulers of the world. The toughness that makes them suited to killing vermin can frustrate you when you try to teach them anything. Cesky Terriers can be stubborn and manipulative. You must show them, through absolute consistency, that you mean what you say. To teach your Cesky Terrier to listen to you, "Respect Training" is mandatory. See Cesky Terrier Training
5. Finding one and paying the price. Cesky Terriers are rare in the United States, and very expensive.