The Czechoslovakian Vlciak (also known as the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog or simply the Czech Wolfdog) isn’t any ordinary breed; they have wild blood in their genes (literally!). This dog, a hybrid of both dogs and wolves, is the result of a breeding project developed in Czechoslovakia in the 1950s. Read on to learn more about the Czechoslovakian Vlciak!
1. They Come from the Former Czech Republic
The Czechoslovakian Vlciak was developed in the 1950s by the Czechoslovakian Border Guard. The Border Guard’s dogs were suffering from various common illnesses, and something had to be done as canine companions were needed in this line of work. Many dogs had to retire early, and those still working took a while to recuperate and heal after a hard day on duty.
The foundation of this breed was formed by the breeding of German Shepherds with Eurasian wolves (more on this later), with hopes of creating a hardier breed. Around 40 German Shepherds were used in this breeding project, while only four wolves were crossed within their bloodlines; eventually, the final result was the Czechoslovakian Vlciak. While originally bred for the Border Guard, this canine was also utilized for other military duties, such as tracking and guarding.
The breeding project received major attention at a large meeting hosted by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1965. Until 1982, the Czechoslovakian Vlciak was known mainly as the Czech Wolfdog (and still works as an alternate name). The FCI finally recognized the Czechoslovakian Vlciak as a breed of its very own in 1999.
Today, this breed is considered the national dog breed of both Slovakia and the Czech Republic. When Czechoslovakia dissolved in 1993, both countries had to commence a truce in terms of managing their breed standard: while Slovakia is in charge of the breed itself, it cannot make any changes without consent from the Czech Republic.
2. Yes! This Dog is Part Wolf
As in its name, the Czechoslovakian Vlciak is indeed, part wolf. It is important to note though, that this breed is mostly dog, around 93 to 95% German Shepherd. While the wolf DNA only makes a small portion of the Czech Wolfdog’s genetic makeup, a lot of its traits are prominently displayed in this wolf-like canine. From a very, very technical perspective, a dog is virtually the same species as the wolf, but even by subspecies, there are some very important differences.
The primitive coloration of the Czechoslovakian Vlciak is very visually similar to that of a wolf’s, and it also sports the hardiness of the dog’s wild cousins. The behaviors of this dog also have many similarities to those of a wolf, including its high prey drive, aloofness, and independence. Interestingly, this breed doesn’t bark often, preferring to communicate through whining, howling, and body language. This makes them a much quieter breed compared to other dogs. Such behavioral traits are very important to note if one wants to keep and raise this breed.
3. These Breeds Are Used for Various Purposes
While originally bred for border patrol, the Czechoslovakian Vlciak is a hard-working breed that can be tasked to do many other forms of labor. Having a superb sense of smell, Czech Wolfdogs are also used for tracking game as they can follow scent trails. Their high prey drive also makes them suitable as hunting companions. Because of their great sense of smell, this breed has also been used for search operations, accompanying search-and-rescue teams. Both Italy and the United Kingdom have utilized the Czech Wolfdog in their search operations.
With its stamina, strength, and endurance, Czech Wolfdogs have also been used as draft animals, pulling carts and wagons. While the Czechoslovakian Vlciak wasn’t originally bred to be a sled dog, some people have successfully trained them to pull sleds.
Unlike other wolfdogs, who are known to be very shy, the Czechoslovakian Vlciak can be successfully trained as a guard dog to protect livestock and property. These dogs are usually reserved themselves, but their natural suspicion toward strangers and their general alertness make this breed an ideal watchdog.
4. Czech Wolfdogs Are Just One Wolfdog Breed!
While the Czechoslovakian Vlciak is a wolfdog, it’s not the only one that exists. Technically, all you need is a wolf and a dog to create a wolfdog. In some parts of the world, feral dogs are even known to hybridize with other wild canine species, including wolves and coyotes. In fact, the gene for melanism, or black coloration, in North American wolves may have been introduced by early hybridization with domestic dogs.
Six dog breeds, including the Czechoslovakian Vlciak, have a significant amount of wolf admixture within their genetics. The Saarloos Wolfdog is another similar breed of dog that was developed in the Netherlands. Like the Czechoslovakian Vlciak, the Saarloos Wolfdogs’ ancestors were mostly German Shepherds and gray wolves.
While a few wolfdogs, such as the Czech Wolfdog and the Saarloos Wolfdog, are understood as breeds of their own, many wolfdogs have been accidentally or purposely bred by people. Wolfdog breeding is a very controversial topic: while some enthusiasts aspire to keep wolfdogs as pets, others believe that it is unethical to create such hybrids. Still, this article is about the Czechoslovakian Vlciak, not about the ethics of wolfdogs.
5. These Dogs Require Lots of Exercise
The Czechoslovakian Vlciak is a canine that requires at least two hours of exercise every day. This dog is a high-energy breed that must be enriched both mentally and physically. Left to its own devices, a bored wolfdog is a destructive one indeed. Long walks, runs, or even hikes are highly beneficial to this breed. While other dogs can release their energy by running around a secure yard, the Czechoslovakian Vlciak prefers having a job. They quickly grow bored of repetitive activities, such as frisbee. So, you might have to spice things up!
While the Czech Wolfdog wasn’t bred for life in the water, swimming is another great way for your dog to cool off and prevent canine obesity. Still, although many sporting activities are also great for your wolfdog to participate in, keep in mind that this breed isn’t very competitive.
6. These Dogs Require Regular Grooming
The Czechoslovakian Vlciak is a double-coated breed that has some grooming requirements. This breed sheds twice a year, and during this time, your dog needs to be brushed daily to remove excess shed hairs and maintain the health of the coat itself.
The fur coat thickens up during the winter to keep this canine protected from the elements, while its summer coat is lighter and thinner. Fortunately, bathing is seldom needed as dirt and other debris often cleans off on their own thanks to the natural oils present in its fur. This canine is known to have very little “doggy odor” as well.
As with other dog breeds, your wolfdog’s nails should be trimmed every few weeks to prevent discomfort, and its ears should be cleaned regularly to prevent infection. Your dog’s teeth should also be brushed frequently. Though it is highly recommended to brush them daily, two to three times a week should usually suffice. While dental chews are relished by dogs, they should only be used as supplements and not as a substitute for actual tooth brushing.
7. This Breed Is Generally Healthy
The Czechoslovakian Vlciak is a generally healthy breed, but some may have issues that other dogs may suffer from. One such condition is elbow/hip dysplasia, which occurs when the dogs’ joints don’t grow properly and therefore causes discomfort. If left untreated, it can cause further discomfort and eventually a lack of movement and arthritis.
Another health condition to look out for in this breed is degenerative myelopathy, a disease that affects your canine’s spinal cord. Early symptoms usually involve a loss of balance in the hind legs, which then eventually spreads to the front legs, causing paralysis.
Unfortunately, there is currently no known cure for degenerative myelopathy, but your veterinarian will be able to suggest ways to improve your dog’s quality of life during this difficult time. As this condition is genetic, reputable breeders will genetically screen their dogs to ensure that this doesn’t get passed down in future generations. There have been reports of a few dogs recovering from this, but it is mostly hearsay.
It is very important to have your dog examined by a trusted veterinarian annually to troubleshoot any issues before they worsen. If your dog shows any signs of illness, it is best to schedule a vet appointment as soon as possible.
8. These Dogs Are Not for Beginners
The Czechoslovakian Vlciak is a very unique and charismatic breed to behold; however, this dog should only be kept by highly experienced individuals. While a reserved breed that keeps to itself, this dog can be very aggressive if not socialized properly at an early age. The Czechoslovakian Vlciak can also be very difficult to train, as this breed can be very independent and often stubborn, becoming bored of repetitive tasks very easily.
These dogs are highly intelligent and require lots of motivation to be trained successfully, and therefore require lots of patience, firmness, and consistency. You must approach training differently with this breed than you would with other dogs, especially considering that this breed is part-wolf. Being a high-energy breed, keeping a Czech Wolfdog in an apartment setting is not recommended.
This dog is known to be very loyal to its owners and family, but it is also naturally suspicious of strangers. The Czech Wolfdog has a high prey drive and therefore may be unsuitable to be kept in households with other smaller pets, whether it be cats or even smaller dogs. They may also be suspicious around children as well; while they can get along with children if properly introduced, Czech Wolfdogs may also be wary around them and are probably better off for families without children.
9. These Dogs Are Banned in Some Areas
As this breed has a bit of wolf blood within itself, this canine may be subject to breed-specific legislation that focuses on keeping wolfdogs as pets. While the Czech Wolfdog is mostly a domestic dog in genetic makeup, these laws often aren’t picky.
Keeping these dogs is banned in many places, and some places may require a permit before keeping one. Always check your local laws and regulations if you consider bringing a Czechoslovakian Vlciak home. This breed is also rare, so obtaining one may be difficult and often expensive.
In short, this breed can make a wonderful, loyal companion for a highly experienced individual who understands that keeping this breed is a commitment and not a novelty.
