Tatra shepherd dog

Overall description of the breed

Once used as a sheepdog in the Tatra mountains between Poland and Slovakia, the Podhale Polish Shepherd has a fascinating history dating back more than 2,000 years. The breed is thought to have been brought to Europe by the Phoenicians from the Middle East, where it evolved over time to become the breed we know today.

The Polish Podhale Sheepdog is a very old breed, with the first dogs resembling today's appearing in the 14th century. It is probably a cross between the Hungarian Kuvasz Shepherd and the Tibetan Shepherd, with other shepherd breeds influencing its evolution.

This bold and courageous dog has had a variety of uses over the centuries, serving as a guard dog for the Roman army, a herding dog for cattle, and a loyal companion and defence dog for the bourgeoisie. Unfortunately, during the Second World War, its population declined considerably, but thanks to the efforts of a few dedicated breeders, the breed was saved and developed until it was officially recognised by the FCI on 5 October 1963. The official standard was last updated on 8 June 1988.

Physically, the Polish Podhale Shepherd bears an uncanny resemblance to the Pyrenean Shepherd or the Newfoundland. They are large, solidly built and powerful, with a majestic appearance. Their body is longer than it is tall, with strong legs and robust bones. Its chest is deep and ample, while its head is massive with a broad skull and a well defined stop.

The coat is thick and dense, slightly longer on the neck and chest, with a rather harsh texture and abundant undercoat. Its bushy, plume-like tail is set fairly high and stands up when it is in action. Its almond-shaped, slightly slanted eyes give it an intelligent expression, and their colour is always dark.

Beyond their imposing appearance, Polish Shepherd Dogs are renowned for their calmness and gentleness. They are affectionate towards their owners and family members, especially children, with whom they get on very well. However, they have a highly developed protective instinct, and are fearless when their family or property is threatened.

Active and vigilant, they keep a close eye on their surroundings and are quick to spot potential dangers. Although they tolerate solitude well, they look forward to the return of their loved ones. Devoted and loyal, the Polish Podhale Shepherd is an ideal companion for families looking for a dog that is both powerful and loving.

In terms of measurements, males generally weigh between 44 and 50kg (100-110lb), while females weigh around 42-45kg (92-100lb). As for height, it is around 65 to 70 cm (25 to 27 inches) for the male and 60 to 65 cm (23 to 25 inches) for the female. With its exceptional qualities and rich history, the Polish Podhale Sheepdog continues to win the admiration and affection of many owners around the world.