Courageous, fearless, and strong-willed, the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog, Czechoslovakian Vlcak (CSV), is not a dog for the fainthearted or inexperienced. A wolfdog derived from mixing the German Shepherd with the Carpathian Wolf, it is one of the dogs that looks the most like a real wolf.
Although there is very little wolf left in the CSV, they are still tough and physical dogs. They require experienced handling to manage their superior energy and stamina.
If you’re looking for a companion with lupine features, make sure to thoroughly research the CSV before getting a puppy.
History of the Czechoslovakian Vclak
The origins of the CSV read like the plot of a science-fiction thriller.
In fact, the Vlcak or CSV is a result of a biological experiment that started in 1955.
The idea was to combine the Carpathian Wolf with the German Shepherd and create an animal with the stamina, hardiness, and superior senses of a wolf, but with the trainability and obedience of a dog.
The project started under Karel Hartl, and by the 1970s, the dogs were working in border patrol units.
The dogs were stringently tested to produce the best working hybrids behind the iron curtain for the army.
In total, four wolves were introduced into the lines. These were Brita, Argo, Sarik, and Lady. After them, no more wolves were introduced, and the studbook was closed.
This makes the average Czechoslovakian Wolfdog today about 94 % German Shepherd and 6 % wolf.
What Are the Physical Features of the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog?
| Height | Weight | Lifespan | Color | Nose | Eyes |
| Bitches a minimum 23 ½ Inches
Dogs a minimum of 25½ |
Bitches a minimum 44 pounds
Dogs a minimum of 57 pounds |
12 – 15 years | Yellowish to silver or dark gray coloring Usually has a lighter marks and lighter underparts | Black and oval | Dark-rimmed and amber. |
The Czechoslovakian Wolfdog male must weigh a minimum of 57 pounds and stand at least 25 ½ inches tall. Females must weigh at least 44 pounds and be at a minimum of 23 ½ inches tall.
This means that, in general, they are perhaps a bit bigger than the average Siberian Husky but a little smaller than the Alaskan Malamute.
This is a firm, powerful dog with a rectangular frame. They tend to be lean and athletic, with streamlined, pointed features that resemble those of their Carpathian Wolf ancestors.
They also retain the wolf’s ability to trot gracefully and light-footed over long distances.
Their colors are usually a yellowish-grey to silver or dark grey, and they have a typical light mask. Their coat is straight and smooth.
The CSVs eyes are amber and dark-rimmed, and other eye colors are considered a fault by the breed standard. Their face is pointed and sharp, with erect ears and an oval, black nose.
