Bohemian Spotted Dog
Also known as Český Strakatý Pes · Czech Spotted Dog · Horák'S Laboratory Dog
Czech Republic, Companion and toy dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 43–53 cm
- Weight
- 15–22 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Friendly
- Gentle
- Playful
- Sociable
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Bohemian Spotted Dog is a medium-sized Czech companion breed with folded ears, a slightly rectangular body and a distinctive tricolour coat of black or brown, tan and white with individual ticking. Coats can be short or long, both with an undercoat. It started life as a laboratory dog and is now kept as a family pet.
Size
- Size
- Medium
- Height at shoulder
- 43–53 cm
- Adult weight
- 15–22 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Most reach adult size by around 12 months.
Lifespan
12–15 years
Most Bohemian Spotted Dogs live 12–15 years. Like other medium dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 8, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
It is known for being kind, outgoing and non-aggressive, which makes it a good choice for first-time owners. It gets on well with people and other dogs, and can learn to live with other pets if raised with them. It still barks to announce strangers.
- Friendly
- Gentle
- Playful
- Sociable
Food
For a typical 18.5 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,000 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 740 ml–1.1 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
60–90 min a dayAn active, playful dog that enjoys daily walks plus games and training. Many take part in agility and dog dancing, and some work as therapy dogs.
Grooming & shedding
Short-coated dogs need a weekly brush; long-coated dogs need brushing two or three times a week to keep the coat tidy and free of tangles.
Health
Reward-based training suits this people-focused breed. It is rare even in the Czech Republic, with only several hundred dogs, so prospective owners should contact the breed club. Little health information has been published.
The breed can be prone to
- Little published breed-specific health data
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scoring
- Eye examination
Not every Bohemian Spotted Dog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Czech scientist František Horák set out in 1954 to breed an ideal laboratory dog that was a convenient size, easy-going, fertile and cheap to feed. The dogs were first shown publicly in 1961, and in 1981 some were passed to private breeders, who gave them their current name. After nearly dying out, the breed was rebuilt from eleven dogs in the 1990s and numbered about 600 by 2022.
- Country of origin
- Czech Republic
- Type
- Companion and toy dogs
- Recognition
- Recognised by the Czech-Moravian Kennel Union (ČMKU); not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Bohemian Spotted Dog right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
Bohemian Spotted Dog FAQ
How big does a Bohemian Spotted Dog get?
Adult Bohemian Spotted Dogs typically stand about 43–53 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 15–22 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Bohemian Spotted Dogs live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Bohemian Spotted Dog need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Bohemian Spotted Dog need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Bohemian Spotted Dogs easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Bohemian Spotted Dogs shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Bohemian Spotted Dogs good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Bohemian Spotted Dog live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Bohemian Spotted Dogs have?
The breed can be prone to little published breed-specific health data. Not every Bohemian Spotted Dog is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.