The Czechoslovakian Wolfdog, a captivating canine from a cross between German Shepherds and Carpathian wolves, boasts a lineage unlike any other. Bred in the 1950s in Czechoslovakia (now Czech Republic and Slovakia) for their exceptional working abilities, these dogs quickly gained recognition for their strength, intelligence, and loyalty.
Origins
Various crossbreeds have been attempted over the years. The first litter was born in 1958, resulting from a mating between the German Shepherd Cesar Z Brezoveho Haje and the she-wolf Brita. Naturally, it was the subject of in-depth studies, especially to understand the anatomical and physiological differences compared to its parents and whether the pups were ready to be trained and collaborate with humans.
After the experiment's end in 1965, a plan was prepared for breeding the new breed. In 1982, the General Council of the Breeders’ Association of the then Czechoslovak Socialist Republic recognised it as a national breed. According to the Fel classification, it belongs to Group 1 (Shepherd Dogs and Bovarians, excluding Swiss Bovarians), Section 1 (Shepherd Dogs).
Initially, the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog was selected to create a robust and hardy dog that was also easily trainable to be used as an auxiliary in the Czechoslovakian border guard.
Today, this working breed impresses and fascinates many dog lovers, who often adopt a Czechoslovakian Wolfhound puppy to have it as a companion in their everyday lives.
The Czechoslovakian wolfdog has retained many physical characteristics: it is resistant to fatigue, has highly developed eyesight and sense of orientation, and maintains the typical wolf-like appearance.
Appearance and Characteristics
The Czechoslovakian wolf is an above-average-sized dog with a very wolf-like appearance. Its constitution is solid, with strong ligaments and muscular limbs.
The height at withers in males is at least 65 cm and in females 60 cm. Its weight starts at a minimum of 26 kg for males and 20 kg for females. The head, which closely resembles the wolf, is symmetrical, muscular, and has a blunt wedge shape. The teeth are well developed but have a scissor or pincer bite.
The narrow and oblique eyes are light in colour, often amber. The neck and rest of the body are muscular. The tail is set high and hangs loosely downwards, except when the dog is excited when it rises like a sickle. The limbs are firm and parallel.
The feet have well-developed, elastic, dark-coloured pads. The Czechoslovakian Wolfhound's trot is harmonious, agile, loose, and tireless. Various endurance tests have shown that these dogs can successfully cope with a distance of up to 100 km.
The coat is solid and smooth; the undercoat becomes predominant in winter, and the cover coat forms a thick layer all over the body. The colour ranges from yellowish-grey to silver-grey and has a light mask characteristic of the breed.
Character
The Czechoslovakian Wolf is playful, lively, exuberant, and tenacious. It has retained the wolf’s cunning and adaptability to various situations. Capable of interpreting its human companion’s moods and emotions on the fly, it barks very little but can make itself perfectly understood. The Czechoslovakian wolf’s strong temperament, liveliness, and highly developed senses stand out.
An excellent guard and defence dog, it is very close to its pack, so it does not like to spend too much time alone. It often bonds with a particular family member it recognises as its point of reference. If socialised well and managed correctly, it can also accept other pets of other species without any problems.
However, its attitude toward unfamiliar animals or people is different. In that case, the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog will tend to consider them intruders unless we understand otherwise. Suppose we have established a good cooperation and mutual trust relationship. In that case, making our Czechoslovakian Wolfhound accept relatives, friends, and any of their animals will not be difficult.
Training
As a knowledgeable dog with a short reaction time, it is essential to always provide it with new stimuli and ensure it is involved and intrigued in all our proposed activities. The Czechoslovakian wolf can try its hand at dog sports, in which its physical abilities can be brought to the fore. His excellent sense of smell also makes him very suitable for track work, where he can achieve significant results.
Nutrition and health
In conclusion, the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog presents a unique blend of domestic dogs and wild wolves, captivating enthusiasts with its intelligence, trainability, and striking resemblance to its wild ancestors. While their independent spirit necessitates experienced owners, these dogs can flourish in the right environment, becoming cherished companions and loyal working partners. Owning a Czechoslovakian Wolfdog comes with great responsibility, but the rewards are unparalleled for those prepared to provide the care and training these remarkable animals require.
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