Breed History:

The Bohemian Shepherd, also known as the Chodský Pes, is an ancient herding and guarding breed originating from the historic Chod region of the Czech Republic. The breed's roots date back several centuries, when it was used by the Chodové people to guard borders, protect homes, herd livestock, and assist farmers.

Although the breed nearly disappeared during the 20th century, dedicated breeders began a revival program in the 1980s using historical records and surviving dogs. This effort successfully restored the Bohemian Shepherd as a distinct breed while preserving its traditional working abilities and temperament.

Today, the breed is valued as a versatile working dog, family companion, and participant in various canine sports.

Gender	Height	Weight
Male	52–57 cm	19–27 kg
Female	49–54 cm	17–24 kg

Size: Medium

Life Expectancy: 12–15 years

Breed Appearance:

The Bohemian Shepherd is an athletic, elegant, and well-balanced herding dog.

The breed commonly features:

• Wedge-shaped head

• Dark almond-shaped eyes

• Medium-sized erect ears

• Deep chest and agile body

• Long bushy tail carried naturally

Its coat is long, dense, and weather-resistant with a thick undercoat.

Common coat colours include:

• Black with tan markings

The tan markings typically appear on the face, chest, legs, and under the tail.

The breed's appearance is often compared to a smaller, lighter-built German Shepherd.

Breed Type – Herding Dog:

The Bohemian Shepherd is an intelligent, energetic, and highly versatile working breed.

It is known for being:

• Loyal and devoted

• Friendly and affectionate

• Intelligent and eager to learn

• Alert and watchful

• Energetic and hardworking

The breed forms strong bonds with family members and is generally known for its stable, people-oriented temperament.

It combines working ability with a strong desire for companionship.

Training:

The Bohemian Shepherd is highly intelligent and very trainable.

Training should focus on:

• Early socialisation

• Positive reinforcement methods

• Obedience training

• Mental enrichment activities

• Confidence-building exercises

The breed excels in:

• Obedience

• Agility

• Herding

• Search and rescue

• Tracking

• Therapy and assistance work

Its eagerness to please makes training relatively straightforward.

Health & Care:

The Bohemian Shepherd is generally healthy but may occasionally be prone to:

• Hip dysplasia

• Elbow dysplasia

• Degenerative myelopathy

• Epilepsy (rare)

Routine veterinary care, responsible breeding practices, and maintaining a healthy weight help support long-term health.

The breed is generally considered healthier than many larger shepherd breeds.

Living Conditions:

The Bohemian Shepherd adapts well to a variety of active homes.

Ideal environments include:

• Family homes

• Houses with secure yards

• Rural or suburban settings

• Active households

Apartment living may be possible if the dog receives sufficient exercise and mental stimulation.

The breed thrives when included in daily family activities.

Exercise:

The Bohemian Shepherd has moderate to high exercise requirements.

Recommended activities include:

• Daily walks and runs

• Agility training

• Hiking and outdoor adventures

• Obedience exercises

• Interactive games and enrichment activities

Mental stimulation is essential because of the breed's intelligence and working heritage.

Grooming:

The coat requires moderate maintenance.

• Brushing 2–3 times weekly

• More frequent brushing during shedding seasons

• Occasional bathing as needed

• Routine ear cleaning and nail trimming

• Regular dental care

The breed sheds moderately throughout the year and more heavily during seasonal coat changes.

Advantages:

• Highly intelligent and trainable

• Loyal and affectionate family companion

• Excellent working and sporting abilities

• Good with children and families

• Adaptable and versatile

• Generally healthy and long-lived

Disadvantages:

• Requires regular exercise and mental stimulation

• Moderate to heavy seasonal shedding

• Can become bored if under-stimulated

• Needs consistent training and socialisation

• May develop nuisance behaviours when left alone for long periods

• Not ideal for sedentary households