Cesky Terrier
Male: 7-10 kg, Female: 6-9 kg
25-32 cm at the shoulder
12-15 years
Czech Republic
About the Cesky Terrier
The Cesky Terrier is a unique, short-legged hunter developed by Czech geneticist František Horák. Created by crossing the Scottish Terrier and the Sealyham Terrier, this breed was engineered to be a more social and manageable hunter than its ancestors. Physically, they are characterized by a long, wedge-shaped head, a well-muscled body, and a distinctive 'sabre' tail. Their coat is one of their most striking features—silky and lustrous, it is groomed in a specific pattern that leaves long hair on the belly and legs, creating a sophisticated and elegant appearance. In the home, the Cesky is often described as the most 'mellow' of the terrier group. While they retain the typical terrier tenacity and prey drive, they lack the sharp edge or aggression sometimes seen in other working breeds. They are excellent companions for families, often bonding closely with all members rather than just one person. Their compact size and moderate energy levels make them adaptable to various living situations, provided they receive regular human interaction and gentle consistent training.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Cesky Terrier displays a distinctive, effortless gait with plenty of drive from the hindquarters. Their conformation is characterized by a long, rectangular silhouette and a wedge-shaped head with triangular ears that fold forward. The texture of the coat is paramount—it must be silky and well-pigmented. What sets the Cesky apart is its 'gentle-terrier' presence; they carry themselves with a refined, quiet confidence that lacks the frantic spark of other terriers, presenting a picture of balance between working utility and sophisticated beauty.
In Australia
Following the breed's recognition by international kennel clubs in the late 1980s, Dogs NSW notes that the Cesky Terrier is believed to be used for exhibition and may have been used for companionship.
Bred For
Hunting foxes and badgers in packs, specifically designed to be narrow enough to enter dens but calm enough to work alongside other dogs.
Temperament
Unlike many high-strung terriers, the Cesky is known for being calm, patient, and relatively docile. They are reserved with strangers but deeply loyal and affectionate with their family.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
Scottie Cramp (a movement disorder), , (), (), and occasionally Cardiac issues.
Exercise Needs
Moderate daily activity is required. A 30-45 minute walk combined with some mental stimulation or play in a secure yard is usually sufficient to satisfy their needs.
Grooming Needs
High. Their silky coat requires regular brushing to prevent mats. Unlike most terriers, they are clipped with clippers rather than hand-stripped, usually every 6-8 weeks.
Living Suitability
Well-suited for apartment living or small homes with a yard. They are indoor dogs that require a secure space to explore but are generally quiet and well-behaved inside.
Good with Kids
Generally very good with children, especially if raised with them. Their patient nature makes them more tolerant than many smaller terrier breeds.
Good with Other Pets
Usually good with other dogs as they were bred to hunt in packs. They may have a high prey drive toward small pets like hamsters or rabbits.
Trainability
Moderately high. They are more eager to please than many terriers but can be sensitive to harsh corrections. Positive reinforcement and treats work best.
Coat & Colours
Long, fine, firm, silky, and slightly wavy.. Grey-blue (born black and fading to grey) or Light Coffee (born chocolate brown and fading to tan).
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Prospective owners should be aware of 'Scottie Cramp,' a breed-predisposition where the dog may experience temporary muscle stiffness or a hopping gait when overly excited or stressed. While this is often a non-painful condition, it requires a calm environment to manage. They can also be prone to Patellar Luxation (sliding kneecaps), so keeping them at a lean weight is vital to protect their joints. Like many terriers, they have a natural prey drive and may be prone to digging if bored—providing a designated 'digging pit' can be a fun way to channel this. They are also prone to dental disease due to their smaller mouths, making raw bones or regular brushing essential. Additionally, they can be more likely to develop separation anxiety compared to more independent terriers, as they truly crave human companionship and may express their loneliness through occasional vocalisation. Many Cesky Terriers can also be prone to dietary sensitivities on standard commercial kibbles, which may manifest as skin irritations or flatulence; they often thrive on a grain-free, fresh-food diet tailored to their specific needs.
Feeding Guide for Your Cesky Terrier
Healthy Weight
6-10 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
120-300 grams per day
For an adult Cesky Terrier, feed approximately 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily in fresh or raw food. For an average 8kg dog, this equates to roughly 160g to 240g per day, split into two meals. Puppies and highly active adults may require closer to 3-4% of their body weight.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-quality, nutrient-dense diet focusing on lean proteins. They are highly responsive to fresh and raw diets that support joint health and maintain a silky coat.
A balanced raw diet for a Cesky Terrier should include lean proteins like Majestik Kangaroo or Beef to prevent weight gain. Include roughly 10% edible bone for dental health and 10% organ meat (liver/kidney) for essential vitamins. A small portion of pureed leafy greens can provide necessary antioxidants. Given their predisposition to Scottie Cramp, magnesium-rich foods or supplements may be beneficial under veterinary guidance.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Cesky Terrier Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Cesky Terrier? Dog Health AI
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Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
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Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
2-5 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.