Overview
The Český fousek is Bohemia's versatile wire-haired gundog, an old breed revived in the 1920s and used by Czech hunters to point, track and retrieve on land and in water. It is a large, sturdy dog with a harsh brown or roan coat, a soft beard and moustache, and amber eyes. It is closely related to the German Wirehaired Pointer and the Slovak Rough-haired Pointer.
Temperament is gentle, friendly and eager to work. Fouseks bond closely with their family and are rarely sharp with strangers or other dogs, but they have real stamina and drive and get restless without enough to do. They are uncommon in Britain.
Exercise and walking needs
Close to two hours a day for a fit adult, with a good part of it running off lead and, where the owner allows, swimming. The breed was bred to work all day.
Retrieving and scent games add the mental side. A walk with a few retrieves and a water entry does more than a longer one on the lead.
On the walk
- Recall: Good in a trained dog; the breed is biddable and wants to be with you. Game birds and deer will test it, so start with a long line in new country.
- Water: The coat and the drive make this a swimming dog. Check exit points and currents, and carry a towel.
- Pulling: Light to moderate. A harness is comfortable and suits the strong, lean neck.
- Other dogs: Friendly and easy-going. Good on group walks with other active dogs.
Tips for professional walkers
- Build retrieving into the walk; it channels the drive and brings the dog back to you.
- Dry the beard and ears after swimming; both hold water.
- Check the wire coat for burrs and ticks after rough cover.
- Plan for distance and pace; a Fousek that has not run will not settle at home.
What to ask the owner
- Is the dog trained to the gun or a whistle, and which cues does it know?
- Where is swimming allowed, and are there waters to avoid?
- Any hip or elbow problems that should limit long runs?