Cesky Terrier
The Cesky Terrier is described by the AKC as clever, adventurous, family-oriented, a member of the Terrier Group, originally from Czech Republic.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 10-13 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 14-24 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Clever / Adventurous / Family-Oriented [1] |
| AKC group | Terrier Group [1] |
| Origin | Czech Republic [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 197 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
The Cesky enjoys daily exercise in the form of walks and play sessions with his owner. He must always be on a leash when not within a securely enclosed area, however, and his yard should be fenced. The breed has a very strong prey drive, and if he sees or smells what he perceives as prey, the Cesky may not be able to resist running off in pursuit. [1]
Grooming
Unlike grooming of some terrier breeds, hand stripping is not suggested for the Cesky's coat. Instead, the body is clipped. You should visit a professional groomer referred by your breeder to be sure your dog is groomed correctly. [1]
Health issues to budget for
With a small gene pool in the States, breeders are doing their best to eliminate genetic health problems that are currently possible in the breed. These include patellar luxation (slipped stifles), cardiac problems, progressive retinal atrophy, and cataracts. Many suffer from a neurological issue known as Scotty Cramp, a somewhat debilitating but not life-threatening disorder that causes your dog to spasm, affecting his movement. Your breeder can discuss the potential health problems with you and help you make informed decisions about your dog's health. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Patella Evaluation, Cardiac Exam, Ophthalmologist Evaluation, Dentition Exam. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a small dog (median $508) | $273 – $1,110 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, small dog | $352 – $1,258 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, small dog | $435 – $1,484 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Cesky Terrier in 2011. [1]
- It ranked No. 197 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 179 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Cesky, Bohemian Terrier.” [1]
- The AKC lists Czech Republic as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 4 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Patella Evaluation, Cardiac Exam. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 2/5)
Common questions
How long do Cesky Terriers live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
How big does a Cesky Terrier get?
AKC breed information lists height 10-13 inches and weight 14-24 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Cesky Terrier?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For small dogs like the Cesky Terrier, a typical vet bill runs $273 – $1,110 (median $508). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.