Overview
The Český strakatý pes, or Bohemian Spotted Dog, has an unusual history: it was bred in a Czech laboratory in the 1950s as a research dog selected for a calm, cooperative temperament. Enthusiasts later rescued the breed and it is now kept as a family companion. It is small to medium in size, white with black or brown patches and tan points.
You are unlikely to meet one in Britain, but if you do, expect an adaptable, cheerful dog that is sociable with people and other dogs, moderately active and generally easy to handle. The breed was selected for being pleasant to work with, and that still shows.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour a day in two walks is plenty for most adults. They enjoy being out and will happily do more if offered, but they are not a working breed with a drive to burn.
Vary the route and let the dog sniff. A mix of pavement and park keeps them interested and they tend to settle well afterwards.
On the walk
- Recall: Generally reliable. The breed is cooperative and food-motivated and tends to stay in touch. Build it up over a few walks as with any new dog.
- Other dogs: Friendly and non-confrontational. A good candidate for a group walk once the owner confirms the dog is used to company.
- Pulling: Minimal. Most walk nicely on a flat collar or harness without much fuss.
- Weather: A short to medium coat with little undercoat in some dogs. Add a coat in cold rain if the owner uses one.
Tips for professional walkers
- Treat this as a medium, all-round dog and build the walk around the individual rather than the breed label.
- Carry a few treats; the breed takes to training easily and a few minutes of it adds value to the walk.
- Check the white parts of the coat for mud and ticks; they show up easily, which is useful.
- Ask about the dog's background, because numbers are small and most owners know their dog's lines well.
What to ask the owner
- Is the dog used to being walked with other dogs, and does it have any favourites or dislikes?
- Any skin sensitivity or allergies that the owner has been warned about?
- What is the dog's usual daily routine, so the walk fits rather than disrupts it?