Bohemian Shepherd

Bohemian Shepherd
Bohemian Shepherd
Other names	Chodský pes Czech Sheepdog Bohemian Herder Chodenhund
Origin	Czech Republic
Breed status	Not recognized as a breed by any major kennel club.
Notes	May 2012 Chodsky pes can be exhibited in Sweden From 1 January 2013 the breed will be allowed to be exhibited in Finland From 1 January 2013 the breed will be allowed to be exhibited at Danish Kennel club shows. Norwegian kennel Club Executive Board endorsed at its meeting to approve the CHODSKY PES 08.10.2012. Chodsky pes will be able to register and are on display at the national level in Norway from 01.01.2013.
Dog (domestic dog)

The Bohemian Shepherd is a breed of dog also known as the Chodský pes or the Chodenhund. The Bohemian Shepherd is recognized nationally in Czech Republic but is not recognized by the FCI or any other major kennel club.

History

Chodský pes is an old sheepdog breed. They have been also guarding Bohemian southwestern borders and homes in the area of the Chod region (around Domažlice town). "Chodové" (the Chods), the local people living there, had an exceptional permission to hold large dogs for this purpose. Alois Jirásek, writing about a brave uprising of the local people, even assigned these dogs as a flag symbol of them. Though that is actually incorrect, the symbol became part of national knowledge due to drawings of a well known Czech painter Mikoláš Aleš. The symbol of the Chodský pes is still on Czech young scouts badges.

As the breed of chodský pes is old, it is possibly also one of the predecessors to the German Shepherd. Chodský pes is known to have existed in the Czech lands as far back as the 14th century, and having been professionally bred as early as the 16th century, centuries before the Germans decided to try to make their own national breed. A modern breeding program for this dog was started in 1984 and there are now many breeders. About 3500 registered pups have been born since the program started (1984–2009). Therefore, there is no proof that they are related to German Shepherds.

Description

Appearance

The Bohemian Shepherd has a medium size and length (48-55 cm (19 to 22 inches) in height and weigh about 15-25 kg (35-55 lbs)). Long thick fur and a rich undercoat that allows him to survive in harsh weathers. The body is compact and well proportioned with High set, small, pointed, erect ears and a long elegant neckline. A fluid, light and unhurried gait is one of the typical characteristics of this breed.

Temperament

This is an ideal dog for someone who is very active, this breed has lots of energy, is not aggressive, can be easily trained, and is excellent with children and other pets. Its great agility and a keen sense of smell make it a very good rescue dog, a great companion for handicapped people and an outstanding watch dog. This breed has a stable, calm and friendly temperament that allows it to be good with the owner, his family and specially with children.