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Bohemian Shepherd
Herding breed from Czech Republic
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Bohemian Shepherd
The Bohemian Shepherd is a medium-sized herding breed from the Czech Republic, known for its long black-and-tan coat. Described as intelligent, loyal, calm, confident, eager to please, energetic, gentle, and adaptable, individual temperaments vary. They have an estimated energy score of 4 out of 5 and trainability score of 4 out of 5. Grooming and shedding are each rated 3 out of 5. Suitability with children is rated 4 out of 5, with other dogs 4 out of 5, and for apartment living 3 out of 5. These scores are general guidelines, not guarantees for every dog.
Quick facts
Bohemian Shepherd at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHerding
OriginCzech Republic
Lifespan12–14 years
Male weight19–27 kilogram
Female weight19–27 kilogram
Male height52–57 centimetre
Female height52–57 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Bohemian Shepherd, also known as the Chodský pes, is an ancient herding breed from the Chodsko region of Bohemia in the Czech Republic. Historical records suggest the breed dates back to the 14th century, where it was used as a herding and guard dog by the Chodové people. The breed nearly became extinct after World War II but was revived in the 1980s. Recognition status varies by registry; for example, it received provisional FCI recognition in 2019 and is part of the AKC Foundation Stock Service. These details come from a single source and should be treated with appropriate caution.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
19–27 kilogramAdult weight52–57 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesLongCoat colorsBlack and tanRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Intelligentloyalcalmconfidenteager to pleaseenergeticgentleadaptable
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Bohemian Shepherd-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 4
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Bohemian Shepherd puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight19–27 kilogramAdult female weight19–27 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Bohemian Shepherd?
Based on modelled estimates, adult males and females weigh 19–27 kg and stand 52–57 cm tall. The estimated lifespan is 12–14 years. These figures are estimates, not exact measurements.
What is the temperament of a Bohemian Shepherd?
The breed is described as intelligent, loyal, calm, confident, eager to please, energetic, gentle, and adaptable. However, individual dogs may vary, and these traits are not guaranteed for every dog.
How much exercise does a Bohemian Shepherd need?
The breed has an energy score of 4 out of 5, indicating a fairly high activity level. Regular exercise is important, but specific needs depend on the individual dog.
What are the grooming requirements?
With a long coat and a grooming score of 3 out of 5, regular brushing is recommended to manage shedding, which is also rated 3 out of 5. Individual coat care needs may vary.
Is the Bohemian Shepherd good for families and other pets?
The breed has a child suitability score of 4 out of 5 and dog compatibility score of 4 out of 5, suggesting generally good fit, but proper socialization and individual temperament play a key role.
Can a Bohemian Shepherd live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is rated 3 out of 5, meaning it may be possible with sufficient exercise, but a home with a yard is often more suitable given their energy level.
Where does the Bohemian Shepherd originate?
The breed originates from the Czech Republic, specifically the Chodsko region of Bohemia. It is an ancient herding breed with history dating back to the 14th century, according to one source.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.