Polish Lowland Sheepdog Dog Breed Information

Group

Herding

Weight

15-24 kg

Height

43-50 cm

Lifespan

10-12 years

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About the Polish Lowland Sheepdog

Reviewed by:

Dr. Cristina Alice Vulpe

Veterinarian

Poland can have some frigid winters reaching below temperatures, yet the Polish Lowland Sheepdog does not only survive but thrives under such conditions. With a rather interesting look, this sheepdog makes a great pet, and you can have the honour of adopting it.

Behind that shaggy coat lies a long history that this pup lives up to fulfilling. If you have the privilege of this breed gracing your household, there is a lot of responsibility to take care of it well. Here is a detailed guide on the Polish Lowland Sheepdog to help you play an active role in its life.

What is the history & origin of the Polish Lowland Sheepdog?

Back in the 1500s, Asian invaders spread across central Europe during the demise of the Roman Empire. During that period, they brought central Asian dogs to a beautiful country now known as Poland. Those purebred dogs created the perfect breed that worked perfectly in the role of a herding dog.

Polish people have since used this dog for primarily herding livestock and even gave the Polish Lowland Sheepdog a moniker abbreviated as PON. However, the full version of the nickname is Polski Owczarek Nizinny which loosely translates to the official English name for these furry little friends.

During World War II, PONs almost became extinct, but the Polish people began breeding them soon after the war. From then, it got scattered across the globe to most countries.

What is a Polish Lowland Sheepdog breed?

Apart from PONs being the perfect shepherding companions, they have made their way to different Adult dog sports competitions. Around 1959, the Polish Kennel Club accepted a breeding standard for PONs, and soon after, the first breed club got established.

The Tibetan Terrier is one of the parent breeds for the Polish Lowland Sheepdog, explaining why PONs have central Asia dog genes. Their other genetic side descends from Hungary, as the American Kennel Club says that’s why they are also called Huns.

Other dogs have gotten bred from this breed, such as the Bearded Collie, a Scottish shepherd dog. In addition, various National Breed Club organisations recognise the Polish Lowland Sheepdog and other dogs that result from cross-breeding PONs.

Who is a Polish Lowland Sheepdog best for?

Apart from being bred primarily for an outdoors lifestyle, this breed adapts pretty well to living in an apartment. If you can schedule time for some exercise, PON puppies can fit right into families living in an apartment or smaller houses.

Even better, this pup can adapt to different lifestyles, including those lived by families with children or without. Dog sports enthusiasts also provide the perfect home for PONs because it is an active dog that competes well in different tournaments or championships against other dogs.

First-time owners dedicated to training and loving this breed can assume dog ownership from a reputable breeder or rescue shelter.

Polish Lowland Sheepdog Grooming & Shedding

One of the first things you notice about the Polish sheepdogs is that they have a lot of dog hair. That is because they have a double coat, especially around their eyes and over the head. This hair might be there to protect them from challenges posed by different terrains.

The thick coat also covers the muscular body PONs have, which often leads to excessive shedding. Dog grooming is necessary for this particular breed to remove any dead hair. You will need a little more than just a simple brush-and-go, but according to your preference, you can choose between trimming or professionally grooming your pup.

Do Polish Lowland Sheepdogs bark a lot?

Like many breeds with high mental stimulation and elevated energy levels, PONs require sufficient outlets to wane themselves to a calm state. Otherwise, you might experience some barking, which can sometimes be a little annoying. However, with some vigorous exercise regularly, you won’t suffer from annoyingly excessive barking.

Although these dogs do not make new friends quickly, they do not bark at strangers unless they feel threatened. Polish sheepdogs also serve as watchdogs, so if someone threatens their families’ safety, they will resort to barking.

What is the average weight & height of a Polish Lowland Sheepdog?

PONs are medium-sized canines about half the size of their parent breeds. This breed is not a large canine but faces adversaries fearlessly to protect its own. The specific average weight of PONs ranges between 15kg to 24kg.

The average height varies between 43cm to 50cm. These are the healthy weights and sizes of Polish Sheepdogs. As an owner, try to maintain this weight as much as possible to avoid obesity and potential health issues.

Are Polish Lowland Sheepdogs easy to train?

PONs are pretty stubborn and require consistent training throughout their tender ages. Apart from agility classes, this breed requires more instruction to adapt to a domesticated lifestyle.

Due to the stubborn streak, consider asking for assistance from experienced dog trainers unless you have the necessary skill and experience. Most of the training can get done outdoors in an open field or where the pup will live.

How do Polish Lowland Sheepdogs behave? A look at their temperament and personality

Polish Sheepdogs are one of the most fiercely loyal breeds. They are also amiable dogs to their family and can go to great lengths to protect loved ones. However, this breed acts strangely aloof towards strangers and does not make new friends easily. Despite that, PONs are good around children and other animals.

Families with other pets and children can have PONs as family pets, especially when owners implement early socialisation techniques. They are not an aggressive breed despite the fierce loyalty PONs manifest.

Does the Polish Lowland Sheepdog have any common health issues?

This breed is predisposed to genetic health problems like other dogs, and the conditions that could plague PONs include Progressive Retinal Atrophy. At first, this breed could lose nighttime vision and become blind at a particular stage.

There might be other health conditions that develop which are unique to the environment and lifestyle they live. For example, hip dysplasia could also bother PONs at some stage in their life. Apart from that, this is a generally healthy breed but do not neglect regular health testing and a good wellness routine.

What is the lifespan of a Polish Lowland Sheepdog?

The lifespan of a Polish Sheepdog also depends on several aspects, including lifestyle, health status, and environmental factors. However, this breed commonly tends to have a life expectancy averaging 10 to 12 years.

With constant wellness checks and a healthy lifestyle, this pup can reach old age with a good health record.

How much does a Polish Lowland Sheepdog need to be fed?

Feeding Polish Sheepdogs is a tricky trade because they tend to have a hearty appetite due to their activity levels. Therefore, their food apportioning must get prepared with factors such as their metabolic rate, activity levels, and size. Generally, about 1.5 to 2.5 cups of dry dog food daily can do the trick.

Do not allow free feeding because PONs can overeat when given the opportunity, leading to obesity and inherent health problems. Instead, regularly assess your dog’s size by touching its rib cage. You must be able to feel the ribs without pressing too hard. If not, your pup might be overeating.

How much can you expect to pay for a Polish Lowland Sheepdog in Australia?

Polish Sheepdogs made their way across Australia and are available for purchase or adoption in some rescue shelters. Breeders offer varying prices depending on healthcare status, microchipping, and age.

However, you should be able to get a healthy pup within the price range varying between $300 to $600. Alternatively, when trying to adopt one of these pups, you can ask different local dog shelters and do all the necessary microchipping and vaccination yourself. Whatever the case may be, give this dog all the love there is to provide and a warm home.

Polish Lowland Sheepdog FAQs

Do you have some questions about this breed? Here is an FAQ list answering some essential questions.

Do Polish Lowland Sheepdogs get along with other pets?

Yes, this breed gets along well with other pets, and early socialisation is vital in familiarising your pup with the different types of animals you have in your home. They also exhibit the same loyalty to them as they do to you.

Is a Polish Lowland Sheepdog ideal for a first-time dog owner?

First-time owners can get themselves a PON puppy, and with determination and effort, they can help them adjust to their home. If you face difficulties as a first-time owner, consult with professional trainers or your local breeding club.

Do Polish Lowland Sheepdogs suffer from separation anxiety?

This pup can sometimes suffer separation anxiety when left alone for more extended periods. That is because they like being around family and thus need some attention, especially if your pup hasn’t got its daily exercise.