Many dog breeders dream of rare breeds. These include running dogs. These are amazing dogs, which are characterized by complaisant disposition and unlimited courage. In Russia, a similar breed is quite rare. But breeders of stately pets note high intelligence and excellent service qualities of animals.
External characteristics
The running dog has other names, for example, the Czech shepherd and the Bohemian shepherd. Most likely, their ancestors were Old German shepherd dogs and gypsy shepherds. Some breeders mistakenly believe that the walking dogs are a kind of "Germans". However, it is not. This breed takes its origin from the Czech Republic and has its own history of origin.
For a long time, the ancestors of the Czech shepherd shepherd used to protect livestock and in the hunt for wild animals. This breed received official recognition only in the mid-80s of the last century, and the breed standard appeared in 1997.
Today, running dogs are very popular not only in the Czech Republic, but also abroad. The Bohemian dog is classified as a universal breed. Dogs have high intelligence and good health.
The Czech shepherd dog is known for its strong muscular physique. Thanks to the thick fur with dense undercoat, dogs are perfectly adapted to "street" life, even in regions where low temperatures prevail. As a rule, males are larger than “girls”. Their height at the withers is up to 60 cm. Running dogs weigh from 20 to 30 kg.
The distinctive features of this breed include:
- powerful wedge-shaped head;
- tight lips and strong proportional jaws;
- almond-shaped, expressive eyes of a dark color;
- neat protruding ears (stopping is not provided), covered with thick wavy hair;
- strong, well-developed limbs;
- light leisurely walk;
- dense saber tail.
The body of the animals has no folds, and the skin is painted black or dark gray. Short hair is available only on the face and front of the paws. According to the standard, the outer hair should be straight or wavy, and the undercoat is dense and thick. The most common color is black with tan. The main dark tone has a cool tint. Orange marks are located under the eyes, on the ears, chest, and legs.
These dogs are a fairly rare occurrence for Russian breeders. The reason is that the breed has not yet received recognition from the International Cynological Association.
But other dog breeders living on the territory of the Russian Federation do not refuse this breed and turn to Czech breeders.
Temperament
The described dog is a faithful friend and a brave defender. She is distinguished by activity and curiosity. She gets along well with small households and is ready to play with her favorite toy for hours. Easy to train and instantly remembers numerous teams. PWhen educated properly, Bohemian Shepherd puppies quickly get used to discipline and do not show aggression to other animals.
However, these dogs are extremely distrustful of strangers, but if the owner "gives the go-ahead" to communicate with a stranger, then the dog changes its attitude and shows friendliness. As a rule, a four-legged pet is strongly attached to the owner and does not tolerate prolonged loneliness. In addition, do not be aggressive towards these animals. Experienced dog handlers are sure that it will be possible to “negotiate” with such pets without raising their voices.
Czech shepherd dogs love outdoor games and are happy to run after a stick, a ball.
The space is important for this breed, so most often the owners of private houses start the running dogs. As for the city apartment, the pet needs a warm, cozy place and long walks in the fresh air.
The choice
It is best to buy Bohemian Shepherd puppies in trusted kennels with the appropriate documentation. Take the baby into the house will turn out in the "transition period". Healthy puppies of a running dog begin to walk from 3 weeks of age. At this point, "pussies" are interested in the world around them and learn to eat on their own.
Males have a less compliant disposition than females. "Boys" are quite wayward and need a reputable owner. Too soft training of a guard dog can lead to unexpected consequences: the dog will become uncontrollable and will show unreasonable aggression towards the household. Bitches have a calm disposition and are easy to train.
Note that puppies of a running dog are able to change color after the first molt, so you should not make hasty conclusions about the coloring of the coat of the animal at a young age.
Content
Thanks to the thick coat, the Bohemian shepherd dogs are perfectly adapted to life in the yard of a private house. However, fur requires careful care. Comb the pet 1-2 times a week with a special brush. Note that the territory in which such a dog lives must be clean and well-groomed. The animal’s hair quickly gets dirty, clinging dry leaves and small branches from the ground.
Dogs are bathed as needed (2-3 times a year) using special shampoos. No less important is the hygiene of the ears, teeth and eyes. If there is an unpleasant odor and increased salivation from the pet's oral cavity, it must be immediately shown to the veterinarian.
Ears and eyes should be clean, without suspicious secretions. In most cases, the claws of the canine dogs grind naturally.
However, constant monitoring is important behind them, otherwise the dog will experience pain when walking, which will lead to sad consequences.
Bohemian shepherd nutrition should be varied and balanced. The pet uses natural products and premium industrial feed for medium and large breeds. And also do not forget about additional vitamin and mineral nutrition. The main product for dogs is fresh low-fat meat (not more than 60%), and the rest of the diet is cereals, sour-milk products, raw eggs, greens and vegetables.
Dog handlers are advised to feed adult dogs 2 times a day. Overfeeding the animal is not recommended, as obesity can lead to the death of the pet.
Health
Bohemian shepherd dogs are strong and hardy animals. The average life expectancy of four-legged friends is from 13 to 15 years. A running dog is susceptible to diseases of the ears and joints. Representatives of this breed need a regular visit to the veterinarian. The specialist will identify a particular disease at the initial stage and select the right treatment.
For more information about walking dogs, see the next video.
