The Czechoslovakian Wolfdog (CSW/wolfdog) is a breed suitable for families, an ideal partner for trips, running or just as a buddy/companion. The official breed standard describes it as a dog of "a solid constitutional type, more than medium-sized, rectangular frame. Its body structure, movement, coat, coat color and mask resemble a wolf", and describes its character as "temperamental, very active, persistent, docile, quick to react. Fearless and courageous. Mistrustful. They show extraordinary loyalty to their master. Resistant to weather conditions. Versatile."

The entire Standard in English (and other languages) can be found, for example, on the FCI websites.

However, wolfdogs have their own typical characteristics that must be taken into account when deciding whether or not to buy a Czechoslovak Wolfdog. The following points are based on our experience:

CSW are very dependent on their owner (pack) and suffer greatly when left alone at home. They often run away, howl or destroy everything. What will the neighbors say about a dog crying there all day? Do you have the time and patience to gradually accustom the dog to solitude? Will you have enough time for your wolfdog in the future?

They are often reserved with strangers, they do not need to cuddle with everyone. They choose who they like and who they do not.

Some wolfdogs are good guard dogs (they will bark to signal "danger"), others do not bark at all. If you want to get a wolfdog just to guard the land/property, you may be disappointed.

Puppies bite a lot (when playing) - probably more than other breeds. They usually treat human children as their peers.

They like to dig in the garden. Do you need ornamental flower beds?

If they start to get bored at home, it pulls them out for fun (chickens, garbage cans, dog friends...). Do you have a sufficiently secure plot of land?

Intensive socialization is absolutely key. CSWs needs to get to know people, strange dogs, other animals, experience "strange" situations, drive a car... Again, will you have enough time and patience for your wolfdog?

In puberty/adulthood, CSWs usually do not like other strange dogs of the same sex. In most cases, they want to fight. Are you physically fit enough to "train" the dog?

Despite the fact that their master is a god to them, some CSWs (mostly males) will try to move up in the domestic hierarchy a few times in their lives (they can growl, they can try to fight back against their master...). This needs to be clearly explained to them.

CSWs are curious - will the dog only be outside in the garden or will it also go inside the house? Is it safe everywhere? Can they get hurt somewhere (electrical cables, swimming pool...)? Wolfdogs are able to climb onto the roof if they have the chance...

They like to chew on things that are not tidy or secure. As soon as something is hanging or sticking out from somewhere, it is a challenge to play/disposal... Do you need a rear wiper on your car?

CSWs are harder to train, or rather, they have to be handled differently than other breeds. They are not robots that will bring the ball 100 times and will be happy to run for the ball again. They think about the meaning of work. If you were used to GSs and want something similar, do not get a CSW...

If you are willing to tolerate these characteristic features of Czechoslovakian Wolfdogs, somehow adapt to them or work with them patiently but consistently, then hooray. You can welcome a new member of your family.