Uncommon Dog Breeds: The Czech Wolfdog

Developed in the Czech and Slovak Republics, the Czech Wolfdog was an unsuccessful breeding blunder gone right . Although their goals were not met, breeders developed a unique companion animal. They began experimenting in 1955 by crossing the German Shepherd with the Carpathian Timber Wolf in an attempt to improve the Shepherd's working ability. The objective was to create an efficient police dog with sharp instincts. Instead offspring exhibited shyness, and did not respond well to antiquated training techniques. While this breed failed as a utility dog, enthusiasts began keeping them as pets. The Czech Wolfdog was not officially recognized as a breed until 1982.

The Czech Wolfdog has a slender, wedge-shaped skull, with a long muzzle that comes to a gradual stop. Large almond shaped eyes are amber or hazel in color, and bear an alert expression. Ears sit far on the head, and stand erect. The neck is of moderate length, and thick with no throatiness present. The body is rangy, with a moderately deep chest, and elongated back. The tail is thick, bushy, and generally kept close to the hocks. These dogs have medium coats which are thick, and well insulated. They sport a wolf-like appearance and come in all shades of gray with white and black markings.

The Czech Dog is a unique breed which intensely bonds to one person, and may ignore everyone else. Towards it's owner, the Czech is devoted, affectionate, and intensely loyal, but may be timid or reserved around strangers. For this reason the Czech is not recommended for boisterous families. These dogs do not respond well to unmannered children, and exhibit no tolerance towards teasing or rough play. Puppies will nip, and not think twice about it. This dog still retains many of it's wild cousin's instincts. Its not a fluffy cuddle toy, but a dog with an edge.