Breeding Cesky Terrier

Complete Guide for Responsible Breeders

Breeding Cesky Terriers presents unique challenges and rewards for terrier enthusiasts committed to preserving this rare Czech hunting breed. With a current AKC popularity rank of 191 and a small but dedicated North American breeding population, every breeding decision carries significant weight for the breed's genetic diversity and future health. This comprehensive guide provides the essential data, health testing protocols, and breeding strategies needed to produce sound, typey Cesky Terrier puppies while navigating the complexities of rare breed preservation.

Breed Overview

The Cesky Terrier was created by Czech breeder František Horák in 1948 as a cross between Scottish Terriers and Sealyham Terriers. Horák's vision was to develop a terrier better suited for hunting in the forests of Bohemia - a dog that was clever, companionable, and narrower than the Scottie and Sealyham to fit down burrows more easily. The first documented litter was born in 1949. The breed was recognized by the FCI in 1963 and by the AKC in 2011, making it one of the newest AKC terrier breeds.

Despite its hunting heritage, the Cesky remains one of the rarest AKC breeds, ranking 191st in popularity. Registration trends are stable, with a small but committed group of breeders working to maintain the breed's unique characteristics and genetic health. Unlike the parent breeds from which it was created, the Scottish Terrier with its characteristic independence and the extinct Sealyham Terrier, the Cesky Terrier was intentionally bred for a calmer, more biddable temperament alongside strong hunting instincts.

The breed's parent club is the American Cesky Terrier Fanciers Association, which provides extensive resources for both new and experienced breeders committed to this rare terrier.

Breed Standard Summary for Breeders

The Cesky Terrier is a small, well-muscled, short-legged hunting terrier with a long head, natural drop ears, and a slightly wavy, silky coat. The breed is longer than tall, giving a rectangular silhouette that is essential to type - the length-to-height ratio should be approximately 1.5:1. The Cesky has a calm expression and softer temperament than most terriers, yet retains keen hunting instincts. The coat is clipped except on the furnishings of the legs, underbody, and face, creating the breed's distinctive groomed appearance.

Size specifications:

• Males: 11-12.5 inches at the shoulder, 16-22 pounds
• Females: 10-12 inches at the shoulder, 13-20 pounds

Disqualifications that remove dogs from breeding consideration:

• Prick, tulip, or rose ears (natural drop ears are essential)
• Entropion or ectropion
• Absence of more than 4 teeth or any incisors
• Aggression or extreme shyness

Serious faults to select against:

• Light or yellow eyes (dark brown to hazel preferred)
• Overshot or undershot bite
• Tail set too high
• Overly long or overly short body proportions
• Poor coat texture (coarse, wiry, or overly soft)

Key breeding priorities:

1. Calm, non-aggressive temperament (aggression is a disqualification)
2. Correct head type with distinct beard and bushy eyebrows
3. Proper body proportions maintaining the rectangular silhouette
4. Natural drop ears with good placement
5. Silky, slightly wavy coat texture
6. Sound movement and correct angulation

The standard emphasizes that the Cesky Terrier should be a functional hunting dog with a pleasant, approachable temperament. Breeding stock must demonstrate stability and trainability while retaining the terrier's natural prey drive and working ability.

Reproductive Profile

Cesky Terriers typically produce small litters averaging 4 puppies, with litter sizes ranging from 2 to 6 puppies. This small average litter size is a critical consideration for breeding program sustainability and economic planning. The C-section rate is approximately 15%, significantly lower than brachycephalic breeds but higher than many larger terrier varieties, making natural whelping the norm with appropriate veterinary monitoring.

Breed-specific fertility considerations:

• The small gene pool limits breeding options and requires careful pedigree analysis
• Limited number of active breeding dogs in North America necessitates distance breeding and coordination among breeders
• Occasional fertility issues in heavily line-bred individuals make outcross planning essential
• Small litter sizes can impact breeding program sustainability and economics

Both natural breeding and artificial insemination are suitable for Cesky Terriers. Fresh chilled AI is commonly used for distance breeding due to the small breeder population scattered across North America. Frozen AI is also successful when necessary, though fresh or chilled AI typically yields better conception rates. When selecting between natural breeding and AI, consider the availability of quality stud dogs, distance to the stud, and the dam's breeding history.

Breeding Age and Timeline

Female Cesky Terriers typically experience their first heat between 6-10 months of age, though the timing varies by individual. The recommended first breeding age is 2 years for females and 18-24 months for males, allowing adequate time for completion of all health testing and full physical maturity.

OFA testing minimum age: 24 months for hips and other orthopedic evaluations

Breeding career parameters:

• Maximum litters per female: 4 litters
• Retirement age: 6-7 years

Complete breeding timeline:

Months 6-10: Monitor for first heat cycle; do not breed

Months 18-24: Complete all health testing including hip dysplasia evaluation (OFA or PennHIP), patella evaluation, eye examination, and optional PLL DNA test, cardiac examination, and thyroid panel

Month 24+: Earliest recommended breeding age for females with all clearances

Months 24-42: Prime breeding years with optimal fertility

Months 63-84 (6-7 years): Recommended retirement age after maximum of 4 litters

Puppy placement: 8-10 weeks of age

This conservative timeline respects the breed's small population and ensures that only fully health-tested adults contribute to the next generation. Given the small number of breeding Cesky Terriers in North America, breeders should coordinate breeding plans with the parent club to maximize genetic diversity and avoid unnecessary duplication of popular bloodlines.

Required Health Testing

The Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) requires three core tests for Cesky Terriers, with additional recommended tests that responsible breeders should strongly consider given the breed's known health concerns.

CHIC Required Tests:

Hip Dysplasia (OFA or PennHIP): Screens for hip joint malformation and arthritis. This is the most common hereditary condition in the breed. Estimated cost: $200, one-time test at minimum 24 months of age.

Patella Evaluation (OFA): Screens for patellar luxation (kneecap displacement), a moderate concern in the breed. Estimated cost: $75, one-time test.

Eye Examination (OFA/CERF): Screens for cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), lens luxation, and other hereditary eye diseases. Multiple eye conditions affect Cesky Terriers. Estimated cost: $75, required annually.

Additional Recommended Tests:

Primary Lens Luxation (PLL) DNA Test: Genetic test for the mutation causing lens displacement, inherited from the Sealyham Terrier foundation breed. This autosomal recessive condition can lead to blindness if untreated. Estimated cost: $75, one-time test. Highly recommended given moderate prevalence.

Cardiac Examination (OFA): Screens for congenital heart defects and murmurs. Estimated cost: $100, one-time test.

Thyroid Panel (OFA): Screens for hypothyroidism and autoimmune thyroiditis. Estimated cost: $150, baseline test recommended.

Total estimated health testing cost per breeding dog: $750 including CHIC requirements and recommended additional tests. Annual eye examinations add $75 per year.

All test results should be submitted to OFA for public database inclusion, which is required for CHIC certification. CHIC certification does not require passing scores on all tests, only that testing was performed and results made public. However, responsible breeders should carefully evaluate any concerning results and their implications for breeding decisions.

Given the small gene pool, breeders may occasionally need to make informed decisions about breeding a dog with one less-than-ideal result if the dog excels in other critical areas (temperament, type, other health clearances). Such decisions should always be made in consultation with the parent club health committee and with full disclosure to puppy buyers.

Hereditary Health Conditions

Cesky Terriers are affected by several hereditary health conditions that breeders must understand and screen for to make informed breeding decisions.

Hip Dysplasia: The most common hereditary condition in Cesky Terriers, hip dysplasia results from hip joint malformation leading to arthritis. Prevalence is approximately 35% based on OFA data, notably higher than many terriers of similar size such as the Border Terrier. Inheritance is polygenic/multifactorial, meaning multiple genes and environmental factors contribute. No DNA test is available; OFA or PennHIP evaluation at 24+ months is the standard screening method. Clinical signs include limping, difficulty rising, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, bunny-hopping gait, and muscle atrophy in hind limbs. Onset typically occurs between 6 months and 2 years but can develop earlier or later. Breeding dogs should have OFA hip scores of Good or Excellent; Fair may be acceptable if paired with Excellent.

Primary Lens Luxation (PLL): Inherited from the Sealyham Terrier foundation breed, PLL is an autosomal recessive condition with moderate prevalence (approximately 20%). A DNA test is available through multiple laboratories. Clinical signs include eye pain, excessive tearing, cloudiness, redness, and vision loss. If untreated, PLL can lead to glaucoma and blindness. Onset typically occurs between 3-6 years. Breeding strategy: DNA test all breeding stock. Clear x Clear breedings produce all clear puppies. Clear x Carrier breedings produce 50% clear, 50% carrier puppies (no affected). Carrier x Carrier breedings should be avoided as they produce 25% affected puppies. Affected dogs should not be bred.

Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement affects approximately 18% of Cesky Terriers. Inheritance is polygenic/multifactorial with no DNA test available. Clinical signs include intermittent lameness, skipping gait, leg held up briefly then returned to normal, potentially progressing to chronic lameness. Onset typically occurs between 6 months and 3 years. OFA patella evaluation is required for CHIC. Dogs with Grade II or higher luxation should not be bred; Grade I may be acceptable in exceptional individuals if paired with a dog grading Normal.

Cataracts: Moderate prevalence (approximately 15%) with a suspected hereditary component, though the inheritance mode is unclear and no DNA test is available. Clinical signs include cloudy appearance in the eye lens, vision impairment progressing to blindness. Age of onset is variable from juvenile to senior. Annual eye examinations through OFA are essential to monitor for development.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): Low to moderate prevalence (approximately 8%) with autosomal recessive inheritance suspected, though the specific mutation has not yet been identified in Cesky Terriers. Clinical signs include night blindness, dilated pupils, reluctance to navigate in dim light, and progressive vision loss. Onset typically occurs between 3-5 years. Annual eye examinations are the only current screening method.

Cardiac Abnormalities: Low to moderate prevalence (approximately 12%) with variable inheritance depending on the specific defect. Clinical signs include heart murmur, exercise intolerance, coughing, lethargy, and fainting episodes. Onset may be congenital or develop in adulthood. Cardiac examination by a board-certified veterinary cardiologist is recommended before breeding.

Scottie Cramp: Rare in Cesky Terriers (approximately 2% prevalence), this condition was inherited from the Scottish Terrier foundation breed. It is an autosomal recessive condition causing episodic muscle hypertonicity during exercise or excitement. Clinical signs include arched back, stiff gait, and difficulty walking during episodes. Importantly, Scottie Cramp is non-painful and temporary. Onset typically occurs in puppyhood to young adulthood, usually first noticed before 18 months. No DNA test is currently available for Scottie Cramp in Cesky Terriers.

Breeding recommendations:

• Prioritize hip health given its high prevalence
• DNA test for PLL and avoid Carrier x Carrier breedings
• Annual eye examinations are essential for detecting late-onset conditions
• Maintain detailed health records on all puppies produced to track emerging health issues
• Work within the parent club's health database to share information and track breed-wide trends

Color and Coat Genetics

The Cesky Terrier has a limited color palette defined by the breed standard, with only two accepted color families.

Accepted colors:

• Blue grey (ranging from platinum grey to charcoal grey)
• Light coffee brown (also called brown or liver)

Disqualifying colors:

• White markings covering more than 20% of the body
• Black and tan pattern
• Solid black in adults (puppies are born black and clear to grey or brown)

Relevant genetic loci:

• A locus (Agouti): Controls distribution of red/tan pigment
• E locus (Extension): Controls black pigment production
• K locus (Dominant Black): Acts as toggle between eumelanin (black/liver) and phaeomelanin (red/tan)
• B locus (Brown): Determines liver vs black pigment; brown Cesky Terriers are homozygous recessive (bb)
• D locus (Dilution): Affects intensity of pigment; the blue-grey coloration is a diluted black (dd genotype)

Cesky Terrier color genetics simplified:

Blue-grey Cesky Terriers carry the genotype for black pigment modified by the dilution gene (dd). Puppies are born solid black and gradually clear to the adult blue-grey color over the first 2 years. The shade can range from pale platinum to deep charcoal.

Light coffee brown Cesky Terriers carry both the brown gene (bb) and potentially the dilution gene. Puppies are born dark brown and may lighten slightly with age.

Health-linked color concerns:

Unlike some breeds where dilution is associated with coat quality issues (dilute alopecia), this has not been documented as a significant problem in Cesky Terriers. However, breeders should monitor coat quality in dilute dogs and report any concerns to the parent club health committee.

Complexity tier: Medium. While only two colors are accepted, understanding the interaction between brown and dilution genes is important for predicting puppy colors and maintaining proper coat quality.

DNA color testing availability:

Commercial laboratories offer testing for the B (brown) and D (dilution) loci. These tests can confirm color genotype and assist in predicting puppy colors from planned breedings. Color testing is optional but can be useful for planning breedings and advising puppy buyers on expected colors.

Selecting Cesky Terrier Breeding Stock

Selecting breeding stock in a rare breed requires balancing multiple priorities: health, temperament, type, genetic diversity, and practical considerations like availability of quality mates.

Conformation priorities:

Temperament (highest priority): The Cesky Terrier's calm, non-aggressive temperament is its defining characteristic and what distinguishes it from many other terrier breeds. Aggression is a disqualification. Assess for stable temperament with minimal aggression or fearfulness. Cesky Terriers should be friendly and approachable, especially toward familiar people. Observe behavior in the show ring and at home - the dog should be confident but not hyperactive. Evaluate trainability and willingness to please. Avoid breeding dogs showing aggression, extreme shyness, or excessive stubbornness. Temperament should never be compromised for other traits.

Head type and expression: The long skull with slight stop, proper ear set and drop ears, and the characteristic beard and bushy eyebrows create the breed's distinctive expression. This is non-negotiable for breed type.

Body proportions: The rectangular silhouette (length-to-height ratio of approximately 1.5:1) is essential to Cesky type. Short, square dogs are incorrect and should not be bred.

Coat texture: The silky, slightly wavy coat is a breed hallmark. Avoid breeding dogs with overly coarse, wiry coat texture (like a wire fox terrier) or overly soft, fluffy coat. The coat should have body and a natural wave without curl.

Movement and soundness: Sound movement with good reach and drive demonstrates correct structure and angulation. Avoid stilted, paddling, or crabbing movement.

Natural drop ears: Prick or semi-prick ears are a serious fault and disqualify the dog from breeding consideration.

Common faults to select against:

• Prick or semi-prick ears
• Light or yellow eyes
• Short, square body proportions
• Overly aggressive or nervous temperament
• Incorrect coat texture (too coarse or too soft)
• Missing teeth
• Poor movement (stilted, paddling, crabbing)

Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI) targets:

The average COI for Cesky Terriers is approximately 12.5% (calculated over 10 generations), which is high compared to many breeds and reflects the small founding population. Target COI for individual breedings should be under 6.25% when possible to maintain genetic diversity. Use the parent club's pedigree database and online COI calculators to evaluate planned breedings. In rare cases where a breeding with higher COI is necessary to preserve important traits, limit the number of puppies retained from that litter for future breeding.

Stud selection criteria:

With limited stud dogs available, breeders often must ship semen or travel considerable distances. Stud fees range from $500-$1,200. When evaluating stud dogs:

• Prioritize health clearances (all CHIC requirements plus PLL DNA test)
• Assess temperament through multiple interactions if possible
• Review pedigree for complementary strengths and minimal common ancestors
• Examine previous offspring if available
• Consider geographic diversity to maintain regional genetic variation

Show vs. breeding quality:

In a rare breed, the lines between show and pet quality may be less distinct than in popular breeds. A dog with one minor fault (such as slightly light eyes or tail set a bit high) may still be valuable to the breeding program if it excels in other critical areas. However, dogs with disqualifying faults, serious health concerns, or poor temperament should never be bred regardless of their other qualities.

Whelping and Neonatal Care

Natural whelping is the recommended method for Cesky Terriers, with the 15% C-section rate being relatively low for a small breed. However, first-time dams may need assistance or supervision, and breeders should be prepared for potential complications.

Breed-specific whelping considerations:

Small litter sizes can result in larger individual puppy size relative to the dam. A litter of only 2 puppies may have larger individual puppy weights at birth (6-8 oz) compared to a litter of 5-6 (4-6 oz each). Monitor for dystocia if ultrasound reveals a very small litter.

First-time dams may need assistance or supervision. Have an experienced mentor or veterinarian on call for the whelping. Many Cesky breeders recommend having a reproductive specialist's contact information readily available.

Uterine inertia can occur, especially in older dams or very small litters. If contractions stop for more than 2 hours during active labor with puppies remaining, veterinary intervention is needed.

Expected birth weights:

• Males: 5-7 oz (approximately 0.35 lbs)
• Females: 4-6 oz (approximately 0.30 lbs)

Daily weight gain target: 5-8% of birth weight daily, approximately 0.3-0.6 oz per day during the first 2 weeks. Puppies should double their birth weight by 10-14 days.

Monitoring protocol:

• Weigh all puppies at birth and twice daily for the first week
• Record weights and watch for puppies losing weight or failing to gain
• Monitor dam for adequate milk production and willingness to nurse
• Watch for fading puppy syndrome (hypothermia, failure to nurse, weakness)
• Supplemental feeding may be necessary for small or weak puppies

Tail docking, dewclaw removal, and ear cropping:

None of these practices are performed on Cesky Terriers. The breed standard calls for a natural tail, natural dewclaws, and natural ears. This simplifies neonatal care and eliminates associated costs and risks.

Temperature regulation:

Newborn puppies cannot regulate their body temperature effectively. Maintain whelping box temperature at 85-90°F for the first week, gradually reducing to 75°F by week 4. Use a heating pad (set on low, placed under only half the whelping box so puppies can move away if too warm) or heat lamp positioned safely above the box.

Puppy Development Milestones

Understanding the growth curve and developmental milestones helps breeders provide appropriate care, conduct timely structural evaluations, and prepare puppies for their new homes.

Growth milestones:

Week 0 (birth): Males average 0.35 lbs (5-6 oz), females average 0.30 lbs (4-5 oz). Puppies are born with eyes and ears closed, dependent on dam for all needs.

Week 1: Males approximately 0.75 lbs, females approximately 0.65 lbs. Puppies should double birth weight by end of week 1 to 2.

Week 2: Males approximately 1.2 lbs, females approximately 1.0 lbs. Eyes begin opening around day 10-14, ears open shortly after.

Week 3: Males approximately 1.8 lbs, females approximately 1.5 lbs. Puppies become more mobile, begin toddling, and start to interact with littermates. Introduce first solid food (gruel).

Week 4: Males approximately 2.5 lbs, females approximately 2.2 lbs. Increased playfulness and socialization with littermates. Wean puppies gradually over the next 2 weeks.

Weeks 5-6: Males 3.3-4.2 lbs, females 2.9-3.7 lbs. Weaning progresses. Critical socialization window. Introduce puppies to varied stimuli, sounds, surfaces, and gentle handling.

Weeks 7-8: Males 5.0-5.8 lbs, females 4.5-5.2 lbs. Personality emerging clearly. Conduct initial structural evaluation and temperament assessment. Go-home age is 8-10 weeks.

Weeks 9-12: Males 6.7-9.5 lbs, females 6.0-8.5 lbs. Continued rapid growth and socialization in new homes.

Key developmental windows:

Critical socialization period: 3-14 weeks. This is the most important window for exposing puppies to varied people, environments, sounds, and experiences. Puppies who are well-socialized during this period are more likely to develop into confident, stable adults.

Fear period: Approximately 8-10 weeks. Avoid traumatic experiences during this sensitive period. This coincides with the typical go-home age, so advise new owners to provide a calm, positive transition.

Weaning: Gradual process from 5-6 weeks. Introduce gruel at 3 weeks, gradually increase solid food and decrease nursing access.

Go-home age: 8-10 weeks. This allows adequate time for socialization with littermates and mother while ensuring puppies are ready for the transition to new homes.

Structural evaluation timing: Conduct initial evaluation at 8-10 weeks before puppies go home. Re-evaluate at 6-8 months when structure is more mature. Adult structure is not fully set until 10-12 months when the dog reaches adult size.

Adult size achievement: Cesky Terriers reach adult size by 10-12 months, though they may continue to mature and fill out until 18-24 months.

Cesky Terrier Breeding Economics

Breeding Cesky Terriers is a significant financial undertaking. With small average litter sizes (4 puppies) and comprehensive health testing requirements, breeders should understand the complete cost picture before committing to a breeding.

Health testing costs per breeding dog: $750 including all CHIC requirements (hip dysplasia, patella evaluation, annual eye examination) plus recommended tests (PLL DNA test, cardiac examination, thyroid panel). Annual eye re-examinations add $75 per year.

Stud fee: $800 average (range $500-$1,200 depending on the stud dog's titles and health clearances)

Progesterone testing: $200 for a series of 3-4 tests to determine optimal breeding timing. Essential when using AI or breeding at a distance.

Prenatal care: $350 including confirmation ultrasound, routine prenatal veterinary visits, and nutritional supplements for the dam

Whelping costs:

• Natural whelping: $200 (veterinary standby, emergency contact availability)
• C-section: $2,000 if needed (emergency C-section costs may be higher)

Puppy veterinary costs: $150 per puppy for first vaccinations, deworming series, and health check. For a typical litter of 4 puppies: $600 total.

Food and supplies: $300 for increased food for the dam during pregnancy and lactation, puppy food, whelping supplies, bedding, toys, and cleaning supplies

Registration and marketing: $200 for AKC litter registration, individual puppy registrations, website or advertising costs, and puppy folders for new owners

Total costs for an average litter (natural whelping, 4 puppies):

Health testing (dam): $750

Stud fee: $800

Progesterone testing: $200

Prenatal care: $350

Whelping (natural): $200

Puppy vet costs (4 puppies): $600

Food & supplies: $300

Registration/marketing: $200

Total cost: $3,400

Revenue from an average litter (4 puppies):

Pet-quality puppy pricing: $1,800 average

Show-quality puppy pricing: $2,500 average

For a litter of 4 puppies at $1,800 each (all placed as pet quality): $7,200 revenue

Net per litter (natural whelping, 4 puppies): $7,200 - $3,400 = $3,800

Important economic considerations:

Small litter size variability: A 2-puppy litter generates only $3,600 revenue (assuming $1,800 per puppy), resulting in a net of approximately $200 - barely breaking even. A 6-puppy litter generates $10,800 revenue for a net of approximately $7,400. Breeders should be financially prepared for small litters.

C-section impact: If a C-section is needed, costs increase by approximately $1,800 (from $200 for natural whelping to $2,000 for surgical delivery), reducing net to approximately $2,000 for an average 4-puppy litter.

Stud dog ownership: Owning a quality stud dog can reduce per-litter costs by eliminating stud fees and progesterone testing expenses, but requires the same health testing investment and carries ongoing care costs.

Return on health testing investment: The $750 health testing investment for a female applies to her entire breeding career (4 litters maximum). Across 4 litters, this averages to $187.50 per litter, making the per-litter cost shown above somewhat conservative.

Rare breed premium: Cesky Terrier puppy prices reflect the breed's rarity and the limited number of breeders. This pricing assumes well-bred, health-tested puppies from CHIC-certified parents.

Time investment: These figures do not account for the hundreds of hours of breeder time (whelping assistance, puppy socialization, buyer screening, ongoing support). Breeding is rarely profitable when labor is factored in.

Breeder Resources

Successfully breeding Cesky Terriers requires connection with the broader breed community, access to education, and ongoing support. The following resources are essential for both new and experienced breeders.

Parent Club:

American Cesky Terrier Fanciers Association - The AKC-recognized parent club for the breed, offering breeder education, mentorship programs, health database access, stud dog listings, and connections to experienced breeders. Website: https://www.americanceskyterrierfanciersassociation.org/

AKC Breeder Programs:

AKC Breeder of Merit: Recognizes breeders who demonstrate a commitment to health testing, continuing education, and breed standard adherence. Requirements include CHIC testing on all breeding stock and titling a percentage of dogs produced.

AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T.: Health, Education, Accountability, Responsibility, Tradition. A program recognizing breeders committed to health testing and responsible breeding practices.

Recommended Books:

The Complete Cesky Terrier by various contributors - The most comprehensive English-language resource on the breed, covering history, standard, breeding, and care

Cesky Terrier breed-specific articles in terrier breed compendiums - Look for chapters in comprehensive terrier books that include rare breeds

Online Communities:

American Cesky Terrier Fanciers Association Facebook group - Active community of breeders and owners sharing information, photos, and support

Cesky Terrier Club of America online forums - Discussion boards covering breeding, health, showing, and general care

Rare Breed Network forums (Cesky Terrier section) - Connect with rare breed enthusiasts and share experiences specific to low-population breeds

Additional resources:

OFA Database: Search health testing results for Cesky Terriers to research pedigrees and identify trends. Public database access at www.ofa.org

AKC Canine Health Foundation: Funds research into canine health issues, including some affecting terriers

Mentorship: New breeders should seek mentorship from established Cesky Terrier breeders through the parent club. The small, tight-knit community of Cesky breeders is generally welcoming to those who demonstrate genuine commitment to the breed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many puppies do Cesky Terrier typically have?

Cesky Terriers typically have 4 puppies per litter, with litter sizes ranging from 2 to 6 puppies. The most common litter sizes are 3-4 puppies (55% of litters combined), with 30% of litters having exactly 4 puppies. Smaller litters (2 puppies) occur in about 15% of cases, while larger litters (5-6 puppies) occur in about 30% of cases. The small average litter size is an important consideration for breeding program planning and economic sustainability.

Do Cesky Terrier need C-sections?

Cesky Terriers have a C-section rate of approximately 15%, which is relatively low for a small breed. The majority of Cesky dams whelp naturally without surgical intervention. However, first-time dams may need assistance, and complications such as uterine inertia can occur, especially in older dams or very small litters. Breeders should monitor whelping closely and have veterinary support available. Small litter sizes (2 puppies) may result in larger individual puppy weights, potentially increasing dystocia risk, though this is not common.

What health tests are required for breeding Cesky Terrier?

The CHIC program requires three core tests for Cesky Terriers: Hip Dysplasia evaluation (OFA or PennHIP, one-time at 24+ months, approximately $200), Patella Evaluation (OFA, one-time, approximately $75), and Eye Examination (OFA/CERF, annual, approximately $75). Additionally, responsible breeders should strongly consider the Primary Lens Luxation (PLL) DNA test (one-time, approximately $75), Cardiac Examination (one-time, approximately $100), and Thyroid Panel (baseline test, approximately $150). Total estimated cost including all recommended tests is approximately $750 per breeding dog, plus $75 annually for eye re-examinations.

How much does it cost to breed Cesky Terrier?

The total cost to produce an average litter of 4 Cesky Terrier puppies via natural whelping is approximately $3,400. This includes health testing ($750 for the dam), stud fee ($800), progesterone testing ($200), prenatal care ($350), whelping ($200 for natural delivery), puppy vet costs ($600 for 4 puppies), food and supplies ($300), and registration/marketing ($200). If a C-section is required, costs increase by approximately $1,800, bringing the total to approximately $5,200. Smaller litters increase the per-puppy cost, while larger litters reduce it.

At what age can you breed a Cesky Terrier?

Female Cesky Terriers should not be bred before 2 years of age, allowing time for completion of all health testing and full physical maturity. Males can be bred at 18-24 months, also after health testing is complete. The OFA minimum age for hip dysplasia evaluation is 24 months, which sets the practical minimum breeding age for both sexes. Females typically experience their first heat between 6-10 months, but breeding at this age is not recommended. Breeding careers should conclude by 6-7 years of age, with a maximum of 4 litters per female over her lifetime.

How much do Cesky Terrier puppies cost?

Cesky Terrier puppies from health-tested parents typically cost $1,800 for pet-quality puppies and $2,500 for show-quality puppies. The pricing reflects the breed's rarity, small litter sizes, comprehensive health testing requirements, and the limited number of breeders. Puppies should come from CHIC-certified parents with hip, patella, eye, and ideally PLL DNA test clearances. Significantly lower prices may indicate inadequate health testing or lack of proper care. The rare breed premium is justified by the extensive investment in health, temperament, and breed preservation.

What are the most common health problems in Cesky Terrier?

The most common health problems in Cesky Terriers are hip dysplasia (approximately 35% prevalence), primary lens luxation (PLL, approximately 20% prevalence), patellar luxation (approximately 18% prevalence), cataracts (approximately 15% prevalence), and cardiac abnormalities (approximately 12% prevalence). Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) affects approximately 8% of the breed. Scottie Cramp, inherited from the Scottish Terrier foundation breed, is rare (approximately 2% prevalence). All breeding dogs should have OFA hip and patella evaluations, annual eye examinations, and PLL DNA testing. Breeders should avoid Carrier x Carrier PLL breedings to prevent producing affected puppies.

Is breeding Cesky Terrier profitable?

Breeding Cesky Terriers can generate a modest net return ($3,800 per average litter of 4 puppies via natural whelping) but is rarely profitable when the breeder's time investment is factored in. Small litter sizes create significant economic variability - a 2-puppy litter barely breaks even (approximately $200 net), while a 6-puppy litter generates approximately $7,400 net. C-sections reduce net by approximately $1,800. Health testing costs ($750 per dog) are amortized across multiple litters (maximum 4 per female). Breeders should be financially prepared to absorb losses on small litters and reinvest profits into breeding program improvements. Most Cesky breeders are motivated by breed preservation rather than profit, as the time investment (whelping, socialization, buyer screening, ongoing support) far exceeds the monetary return.

How do I find a Cesky Terrier stud dog?

Finding a quality Cesky Terrier stud dog requires coordination with the breed community due to the small population. Start by contacting the American Cesky Terrier Fanciers Association, which maintains stud dog listings and can connect you with breeders across North America. Attend national specialty shows to meet dogs and breeders in person. Review the OFA database to identify stud dogs with comprehensive health clearances (hip, patella, eyes, PLL DNA test). Expect to use fresh chilled or frozen AI for distance breedings, as quality stud dogs may be located far from your area. Stud fees range from $500-$1,200, typically higher for dogs with championships, advanced titles, or exceptional health clearances. Verify all health testing before finalizing a breeding agreement, and ensure pedigree compatibility to maintain genetic diversity (target COI under 6.25%).

What makes Cesky Terrier different from other terrier breeds?

The Cesky Terrier's defining characteristic is its calm, non-aggressive temperament, which distinguishes it from many traditional terrier breeds. While the breed retains strong hunting instincts, Cesky Terriers are intentionally bred for biddability, trainability, and a friendly disposition. The breed's silky, slightly wavy coat is unique among terriers and requires regular clipping rather than hand-stripping. The rectangular body proportions (length-to-height ratio of approximately 1.5:1) create a distinctive silhouette. Natural drop ears (prick ears are a disqualification) give a softer expression than many terriers. The Cesky is longer and lower than its parent breeds, the Scottish Terrier and the extinct Sealyham Terrier, reflecting its original purpose of fitting down narrow forest burrows in Bohemia. Breeders should prioritize temperament above all other traits, as aggression disqualifies a dog from breeding consideration.

How can I maintain genetic diversity in such a rare breed?

Maintaining genetic diversity in Cesky Terriers requires deliberate planning and coordination among breeders. Target a coefficient of inbreeding (COI) under 6.25% for individual breedings when possible, though the breed average is approximately 12.5%. Use online COI calculators and the parent club's pedigree database to evaluate planned breedings. Coordinate with other breeders through the American Cesky Terrier Fanciers Association to avoid overuse of popular stud dogs and bloodlines. Consider geographic diversity - using stud dogs from different regions and countries (Europe, where the breed originated, still has a larger population). Occasionally outcross to less-commonly-used lines, even if it means accepting minor compromises in show quality, to preserve genetic variation. Maintain detailed records on all puppies produced and share health data with the parent club to track breed-wide trends. Avoid breeding closely related dogs even when it would produce typey puppies, as the long-term health of the breed depends on maintaining genetic diversity. In rare cases, importing breeding stock from Europe may be necessary to introduce new bloodlines.

What temperament traits should I prioritize in breeding Cesky Terriers?

Temperament is the highest breeding priority in Cesky Terriers - even higher than structure or type. The breed standard disqualifies aggressive or extremely shy dogs, reflecting the importance of stable temperament. Prioritize calm, stable dogs with minimal aggression or fearfulness toward people. Cesky Terriers should be friendly and approachable, especially with familiar people, while retaining appropriate wariness toward strangers. Assess trainability and willingness to please - the breed should be biddable and cooperative, unlike more independent terrier breeds. Confidence in varied environments (show ring, new locations, around other dogs) is essential. Avoid breeding dogs showing aggression toward people or dogs, extreme shyness or fearfulness, excessive stubbornness, or hyperactivity/inability to settle. The Cesky's temperament makes the breed suitable for families, therapy work, and companionship while maintaining functional hunting instincts. Temperament flaws are difficult to correct through training and can be hereditary, making selection of stable, friendly parents critical to producing sound puppies.