Fueling the Vlcak:

Czechoslovakian Vlcaks are high-energy, high-output dogs. They don’t just look athletic — their bodies are built for endurance, speed, and mental engagement. To support their natural drive and intense daily activity, they require more food than most dogs their size — and the right kind of nutrition.

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Fast Metabolisms = More Food

Due to their lean build and working genetics, CSVs burn calories faster than your average dog. Don’t be surprised if:

• They eat more than a similarly sized shepherd or husky

• They drop weight quickly with activity increases

• They “crash” or lose energy if underfed or improperly fueled

Many CSVs thrive on multiple meals per day, especially during growth periods, intense training, cold weather, or performance activities.

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What to Feed Your CSV

When it comes to feeding a Czechoslovakian Vlcak, quality and balance are key. These are high-energy, lean-muscled dogs with fast metabolisms and demanding activity levels — nutrition matters!

 

Recommended: Raw Diet

A well-balanced raw diet is our top recommendation. Raw feeding supports cleaner teeth, healthier coats, better digestion, and lean muscle maintenance — all essential for such an athletic and instinct-driven breed.

You can often source raw food through:

• Local butchers offering dog-safe raw mixes

• Dedicated raw pet food suppliers in your area (many offer home delivery!)

• Specialty pet stores with pre-packaged balanced raw meals

Always ensure the raw mix includes the right ratio of meat, organ, and bone, and avoid anything seasoned or processed.

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Hybrid Diet (Raw + Kibble)

We personally feed a hybrid diet — combining high-quality raw meals with select kibble for variety, convenience, and nutritional coverage. This approach can offer the best of both worlds when done correctly and consistently.

Avoid cheap, or overly processed kibble brands. Look for options with limited ingredients, high protein, and no fillers or by-products. 

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Important Notes:

• Feed for function: higher caloric needs based on activity

• Balance calcium/phosphorus, organ meat, and bone content in raw diets

• Make adjustments for age, season, training load, and health status

Every CSV is different, but here are some essentials we recommend:

• High-protein kibble or raw diet, depending on what works best for your dog

• Look for formulas with meat-based proteins, healthy fats, and minimal fillers

• Supplement with raw bones, organ meat, and whole foods when possible

• Hydration matters – ensure fresh water is always available, especially during exercise or hot weather

We are happy to share what works for our dogs, and our personal vet-backed feeding routines upon request.

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Nutritional Add-Ons

We also recommend including the following to help support your CSV’s overall health:

• Joint supplements – such as glucosamine, chondroitin, or green-lipped mussel to support hips and joints, especially in growing or active dogs

• Omega-3s – like fish oil, salmon oil, or krill oil to promote a healthy coat, reduce inflammation, and support brain health

• Coconut oil (in rotation with Omega-3s) – a natural, healthy fat that supports skin and coat condition, improves digestion, and offers antimicrobial properties

• Probiotics and digestive enzymes – to help maintain a balanced gut biome, especially important for CSVs fed a raw, high-protein, or mixed diet

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Daily Exercise & Energy Output

CSV puppies and adults require serious daily physical and mental stimulation:

• Long structured walks (not just backyard time)

• Training, obedience, tracking, scent-work, agility, hikes

• Free-roaming in fenced or secured open spaces (allow them to pace)

• Puzzle feeders, enrichment toys, and problem-solving tasks

Under-stimulated CSVs often show signs of:

• Destructive behavior

• Escape attempts

• Pacing or obsessive behaviors

• Digestive upset due to stress

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The Healthy Mind/Body Connection

Physical health is tied to mental well-being in this breed. A CSV who is well-fed, well-exercised, and mentally engaged is a CSV that thrives.

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Not Sure What’s Best?

If you're unsure whether your CSV’s diet or energy balance is right, we're always open to chat and share what works for our pack.

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You can also consult with your veterinarian — just keep in mind that many vets may steer you toward the kibble brands they carry and may be unfamiliar or unsupportive of raw feeding. It’s always worth doing your own research and finding a vet open to discussing alternative, balanced diets.

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