Czechoslovakian Wolfdog (Czechoslovakian Vlcak)

Named for its wolf-like appearance, the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog is a new breed of dogs developed in Czechoslovakia and is considered to be rare. These herding dogs have a rectangular build with large barrel-shaped chest, broad neck, muscular belly and a bushy tail. They stand upon two pairs of straight forelimbs, and strong, long-calved hind limbs. Its muzzle is black, ears are erect and eyes are amber-colored and positioned obliquely. They are best suited for rural setting where they have lots of space to roam, and a family property to guard. They are used to living in cold climates.

Czechoslovakian Wolfdog Pictures

History

The Czechoslovakian Wolfdog was a result of an experimental crossing between a Carpathian Wolf and a German Shepherd dog in the 1958 by its Czech creator Karel Hartl, followed by a Slovakian, Mr. Rosik. The purpose of the crossing was to testify whether wolf and dog genes could be combined to give birth to healthy specimens.

This dog is a much newer breed that was recognized as an independent breed only in 1982. Previously used in the military, these dogs are no longer used for the purpose but are rather found mostly as pets in the home for guarding or companionship.

Temperament and Behavior

The Czechoslovakian wolfdogs are primarily one-person dogs that are fearless and intensely protective of their territory and home. Hence, they are not recommended for first-time dog owners or non-spacious apartments and houses with young children or pets.

The Cz wolfdog takes the time to mature; not until they attain the age of 2-3 years. They are playful and are extremely loyal to their owners. They are suspicious of strangers, but would never attack or be aggressive without a cause.

These dogs have incredible speed, commendable senses and are good at following trails and make remarkably good watchdogs. However, they would rarely bark, and, in fact, it would be difficult for them to communicate with their family members by barking since they consider this behavior as a secondary means of communication. They would rather prefer interacting with means like howling and some kinds of growling.

Training

Never leave your wolfdog puppy secluded in a kennel. In fact, these dogs are not at all the kennel-type, but needs your complete attention to help it socialize. Although quick learners, they get bored easily and would tend to lose motivation if they are made to do the same kind of work repetitively. Train them consistently and patiently with enough of respect and firmness. This should work effectively for the one-man dog.

The Czechoslovakian wolfdog is less likely to be aggressive with other pets, including dogs, if raised together. Begin obedience training at an early age since these dogs are not so great in obedience. However, with all the training varieties you might end up getting only 50% success.

Diet/Feeding

No special diet is needed for the wolfdog. Just serve them with regular meals like other dogs. But meat should be the base food for your CzW’s everyday diet (approximately 50 to 75 %). Although granulated food, canned food, food supplements can be served as well, but raw foods like raw meat and bones (BARF) are recommended.

Give it three servings if your dog is a puppy less than eight months of age, after which, two servings is advisable. But do not stick to any type food, since that might create a nutritional imbalance in this high-energy dog. You can try varieties like raw chicken backs and/or wings, lamb, pork and marrow bones.

A bone a day is would also keep it nourished and its teeth clean. Plain yogurt and raw eggs (with the shell, for calcium), organ meats (liver, kidneys, heart) and also seafood like fatty fishes, e.g. herrings and sardines. You can also serve them with organ meats about once a week. The rest can be raw veggies, ripe fruits, brown rice, potatoes.

Interesting Facts

• The Czechoslovakian Wolfdog has a distinct ‘facial mask’, which is common to most wolf-like breeds.
• Although these dogs were extensively used in the army, but being less of a barker, sometimes problems did occur during their training sessions, when barking was required.
• To own a Cz wolfdog in the UK, one needs to obtain permission from the local council since the breed is listed under ‘Dangerous Wild Animals’ license.
• Like wolves, these wolfdogs have the ability to go without food for 2 to 3 days.
• In 1982, the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog was officially recognized as a national breed in Czechoslovakia.