The Czechoslovakian Vlcak (pronounced “veel-chuck”) got its start in 1955 in what was Czechoslovakia at the time. An experimental study crossed German Shepherds with Carpathian wolves, and the majority of the progeny from both crossings (male-female / female-male) were found to be genetically suitable for breeding. In 1965 a systematic plan was designed to breed the new variety with the goal of selecting those dogs which exhibited the most useful qualities of the wolf with the best aptitudes of the dog.  Known more commonly as the CSV, the breed was originally created for working border patrol in Czechoslovakia.

The Czechoslovakian Wolfdog was ultimately recognized as a domestic breed by the national committee of breed clubs in 1982. Because this is not a hybrid or “wolf dog” cross, there are, to our knowledge,  no special permits required to own one, but the breed’s behavior can be wolflike with its strong pack drive. That said, we were told by a reader from Norway that the breed is illegal to own in that country.

**As of 2018, 200 pedigreed Czechoslovakian Vlcaks live in the United States. This is a highly intelligent dog that needs not only a lot of stimulation, but s/he needs to see the purpose in each task, and with extraordinary stamina, owners need to be on their toes. In fact, experienced owners suggest that the breed should be owned only by individuals who understand canine body language and are on board with positive motivational training. The Vlcak has been recorded in the #AKC‘s Foundation Stock Service since 2001 and will be in the Working Group when fully recognized. There is a Czechoslovakian Vlcak Club of America where you can learn more: