Polish lowland sheepdog

Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog polish lowland sheepdog!

Here, you will find all the useful information about polish lowland sheepdog. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.

Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.

Overall description of the breed

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog, also known as the Polish Lowland Sheepdog, is probably descended from small Asian shepherd dogs. The breed really made its appearance in Poland in the 15th century, thanks to the beginnings of trade between the UK and Poland. They were imported to the north of the British Isles, to Scotland to be precise.

Highly prized by local shepherds, it was used to herd and guard cattle. After the Second World War, its population declined sharply, even to the point of extinction. However, thanks to the determination and love of the breed of Dr Danuta Hryniewicz, a well-known Polish vet and dog fancier, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog was rebuilt and recognised by the FCI on 5 October 1963. The most recent update of the official standard was published on 7 August 1998.

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog is a medium-sized, agile and energetic dog. They are the quintessential shepherd dogs, robust, protective and very attentive to their environment. They are robust, protective and very attentive to their environment. They have a straight back and strong, powerful legs.

The head is proportionate to the body, neither too massive nor too fine. It is covered with hair on the forehead and chin. The eyes are medium-sized and egg-shaped, with a hazel or amber colour. Their eyes are bright and frank. The coat is long and very thick, abundant all over the body, with a dense, downy undercoat.

Polish Lowland Sheepdogs are affectionate, supple and gentle with their owners. They are possessive by nature, even a little exclusive. It's important to teach them to be sociable and to share with others from an early age, to prevent them from becoming overly attached.

Easy to train and playful, they will do anything to please you in everyday life. Always present at all times, he will enjoy sharing walks or other activities with you, such as agility or obedience, areas in which he excels. They are intelligent, efficient working dogs that quickly understand what is expected of them.

Once used as a herdsman, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog is now an admirable companion dog. If you're a sportsman who loves his animals, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog is for you!

As adults, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog generally weighs 15 to 20 kg (33 to 44 lb). Their height at the withers is around 45 to 50 cm (18" to 20") for males and 42 to 47 cm (16" to 18") for females. This breed, with its endearing personality and graceful appearance, will bring joy and dynamism to your life.

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Origins

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog, also known as Nizinny or PON (Polski Owczarek Nizinny), is an ancient breed that finds its roots in Poland. Its ancestors were likely shepherd dogs used for guarding and herding flocks. It is believed that this breed was influenced by Hungarian shepherd dogs and possibly dogs of Lapponian type. The breed was developed in the plains and rural areas of Poland, where it gained a reputation as a sturdy and versatile working dog.

History

Historically, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog has been valued for its ability to guard sheep and as a versatile farm dog. After World War II, the breed was almost extinct, but thanks to the dedicated efforts of enthusiasts and breeders, including Dr. Danuta Hryniewicz and her famous dog Smok, the breed was revitalized. Today, although still used as a shepherd dog in Poland, it is also valued as a companion dog in many other countries.

Standard

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog is a medium-sized, robust and muscular dog, known for its long and thick fur covering its eyes. The breed standard requires a compact and solid body, with a smooth and decisive gait. The head should be proportional to the body with a medium-length muzzle. Coat colors may vary, but the most common ones include gray, white, and brown, often with distinct markings.

Physical characteristics

The physical characteristics of the Polish Lowland Sheepdog include a strong stature and well-developed bone structure, making it suitable for herding and guarding tasks. Its coat is double, with a dense undercoat and long, wavy topcoat, allowing it to resist harsh weather conditions. Its expressive eyes and characteristic beard give it a distinctive and charming appearance.

Character

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog's character is marked by great intelligence, unwavering loyalty, and a protective nature. This dog is vigilant, brave, and very attached to its family. However, it can be reserved with strangers and requires early socialization. Its intelligence allows it to learn quickly, although it can sometimes show a certain independence of spirit.

Life expectancy

The life expectancy of the Polish Lowland Sheepdog is generally between 12 and 15 years. This longevity is due to its active lifestyle and natural robustness, although genetics and proper healthcare also play a crucial role.

Exercise and activity needs

This energetic dog requires a lot of exercise to maintain its physical and mental health. A well-rounded Polish Lowland Sheepdog will need at least an hour of intense activity every day, including playtime, long walks, or training sessions. Boredom can lead to destructive behaviors.

Recommended diet

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog's diet should be tailored to its level of activity and age. A balanced diet rich in high-quality proteins is essential to maintain its muscle mass and energy. It is advisable to consult a veterinarian to establish a specific nutrition plan, taking into account its individual needs.

Training and obedience

Due to its intelligence and desire to please, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog responds well to positive and consistent training. Training should start at a young age to instill good manners and reinforce positive behaviors. This breed can excel in disciplines such as obedience, agility, and herding.

Behavior with children

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog is generally good with children, especially if raised with them or socialized properly. Its protective nature makes it attentive and often patient with young family members. However, as with any interaction between dogs and children, supervision is essential.

Compatibility with Other Animals

Although he is a shepherd dog by nature, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog can coexist harmoniously with other pets if properly socialized from a young age. His curious nature and balanced temperament often make integration into a multi-animal household easier.

Grooming needs

Grooming of the Polish Lowland Sheepdog is essential to maintain the health of its coat. Regular brushing, at least a few times a week, is necessary to prevent knots and keep its coat clean and shiny. Regular care of the ears, eyes, and teeth is also important to prevent health issues.

Health

Overall, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog is a fairly healthy breed, but it can be prone to certain genetic conditions such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, and skin allergies. Regular veterinary care and health tests can help maintain its good health.

Average price

The average price of a Polish Lowland Sheepdog puppy can vary significantly depending on the pedigree, breeder location, and rarity of the breed. Prices generally range from 1,000 to 2,500 euros, depending on these factors.

Expenses

The annual expenses for a Polish Lowland Sheepdog, including food, veterinary care, grooming, and various accessories, can range from 1,000 to 2,000 euros, which is equivalent to approximately 1,050 to 2,100 US dollars.

Name ideas

Choosing a name for a Polish Lowland Sheepdog can be a fun and meaningful moment. For example, "Zywie" means "life" in Polish, reflecting the energy and vitality of the breed. "Wojtek", which means "happy warrior", can be a tribute to their bravery. "Mila" means "kind", which is perfect for a dog known for its gentle temperament. Other names like "Borys" (fighter), "Ania" (grace), "Tadek" (given by God), "Hela" (sunlight), "Stefan" (crowned), "Danka" (gift from God), and "Leszek" (a sign), all carry deep meanings that can resonate with the qualities and history of this fascinating breed.

Legislation and regulation

In most countries, there are no specific restrictions regarding the possession of a Polish Lowland Sheepdog. However, it is always recommended to check local laws regarding animal ownership, required vaccinations, and zoning regulations before adopting or purchasing a dog.

Official recognition

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog is officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), which classifies the breed in group 1 of sheepdogs and cattledogs (except Swiss cattledogs). The official breed club in Poland is the Polski Klub Owczarka Nizinnego, which plays a key role in preserving the breed standards and promoting its health and well-being.

Pedigrees

Pedigrees are available for the Polish Lowland Sheepdog from recognized breed clubs and cynological organizations. These documents are crucial for maintaining high standards of health and genetic traits in the breeding of the breed.

Destination and usage

Traditionally, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog is used as a herding and guarding dog. Its versatility also makes it suitable for various roles in modern society, including as a service dog, therapy dog, and participating in canine sports.

Prohibitions

There are no specific prohibitions regarding the Polish Lowland Sheepdog worldwide. Owners must however comply with local regulations regarding dog ownership, which may vary from one country to another or even between different regions of the same country.

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