The Cesky Terrier*

by Lori Moody

The Cesky (ches-kee) Terrier is a relatively new breed and still quite rare all over the world. The breed started coming to the U.S. in the late 1980s and now there are around 200 Cesky Terriers in this country.

Mr. Frantisek Horak-a Czechoslovakian geneticist-wanted a dog small enough to go to ground (and not get stuck) and hunt small vermin. He used the Scottish Terrier and the Sealyham Terrier in developing the Cesky, starting in 1949. By 1963, Mr. Horak had achieved recognitions by the FCI-the main European registration organization. His first champion was Javor Lovu Zdar in 1964.

We have found the Cesky to be a delightful pet who gets along with other dogs much better than most terrier breeds. They seem to be very adaptable to any situation and love people of all ages-especially children. Their small size makes the Cesky an ideal family pet.

Since the breed is so new to this country and the grooming is so different, the judges at matches and shows will have to be informed about this. The Cesky is clipped with an electric clipper- not stripped like most terriers. The coast is soft (as compared to the wiry type coats of most terriers). Long hair is left on the sides, legs, over the eyes, and beard. The coat has a silky luster and is a non-shedding type of coat.

The Cesky is of medium length, stands about 10-12 inches at the shoulders, has an undocked tail of 7 to i inches in length, and should weigh between 13 to 22 pounds, although our experience shows that in this country, weight is closer to 16 to 23 pounds.

NOTE: his information has been contributed by, and is property of the National Cesky Terrier Club, and is gratefully used here with permission.

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