Czechoslovakian Wolfdog
The Czechoslovakian Wolfdog breed, also known as the Czechoslovakian Vlcak, was created in Czechoslovakia in the 1950s as part of a military program aimed at combining the best qualities of the German Shepherd with the wild Carpathian Wolf. The goal was to create a breed that would have the temperament, pack mentality, and trainability of the German Shepherd, and the strength, endurance, and instincts of the Carpathian Wolf. The resulting breed was originally known as the ""Československý vlčák"" in Czech, and ""Československý Vlčiak"" in Slovak.
- Origin
- Czechoslovakia
- Alternate Names
- Czechoslovakian Wolfdog, Czechoslovensky Vlciak (Slovakia), Ceskoslovensky Vlcak (Czech Republic)
- Life Expectancy
- 12-16 years
- Average Male Height
- Minimum 25.5 inches
- Average Female Height
- Minimum 23.5 inches
- Average Male Weight
- 44-57 pounds
- Average Female Weight
- 40-44 pounds
- Coat Length
- Medium
- Coat Type
- Double, Wavy
- Coat Colors
- Gray, Silver Gray, Yellow Gray
- Coat Pattern
- None
Genetic Predispositions and Health
The Czechoslovakian Vlcak is considered a healthy and robust breed. Recommended health tests include hip and elbow evaluations, eye examinations, and heart and thyroid evaluations as appropriate. Genetic screening for inherited conditions such as hyperuricosuria, degenerative myelopathy, and progressive rod-cone degeneration can assist veterinarians with diagnosis and proactive care, as well as help breeders identify affected and carrier dogs.
Personality and Behavior
Czechoslovakian Wolfdogs are known for their high energy, intelligence, and strong pack instinct. They are typically very social, requiring a lot of attention and interaction with their human family and can form strong attachments. These dogs are also known for their independence and can be somewhat aloof, especially towards strangers.
Due to their wolf-like instincts, Czechoslovakian Wolfdogs have a strong prey drive and can be challenging to train without consistent, firm, and patient guidance. They are best suited to experienced dog owners who are able to meet their physical and mental stimulation needs. Despite their intensity, with the right training and socialization, Czechoslovakian Wolfdogs can be loyal, loving companions.
Fun Facts
The Czechoslovakian Vlcak is said to have incredible eyesight, hearing, and sense of smell, as well as great stamina and endurance.
These dogs are known to love water and snow.
Most Czechoslovakian Vlcaks have to be taught to bark, which is said to be rather difficult.
Originally bred for border patrol in 1950s Czechoslovakia, the breed is now employed in the United States for search and rescue, tracking, herding, and working dog sports.
References
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/czechoslovakian-vlcak/ https://www.ukcdogs.com/czechoslovakian-vlcak