Polish Lowland Sheepdog: temperament, size, care and health

About the Polish Lowland Sheepdog

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog, known as the PON from its Polish name, is a sturdy, medium-sized herding dog standing about 16 to 20 inches at the shoulder. It is slightly longer than tall, with a muscular but not heavy body. The shaggy double coat covers the whole dog, including the face, so that the eyes and muzzle are partly hidden behind a fringe and beard. A PON may be white, grey, brown or black, usually with patches or markings, and the tail may be short from birth or docked in some countries.

The breed was developed to herd sheep on the plains of Poland. It combined independence, stamina and sharp judgment with a strong attachment to its people. Today it is kept as a loyal and clever family companion, and it competes in herding, agility and obedience.

Temperament and family life

PONs are affectionate and devoted, but they are alert and can be reserved with strangers. They are watchful guardians who bark to announce visitors, and they tend to be protective of the household. Early socialization is important so that this reserve does not harden into suspicion.

With children the PON is usually a patient, playful companion, though the herding instinct can lead to nudging, bumping or heel nipping. It tends to be good with other dogs and pets it has known since puppyhood. The breed is known for its memory and for its stubborn streak, and a PON can quickly learn a routine and then decide that it prefers its own. It wants to be with its family and does not do well if left alone for long periods.

Exercise and training

The PON has a steady energy level. A good hour of exercise each day suits most adults, such as a long walk, play in a fenced yard and a training period. Herding, agility, rally, obedience and tracking give it satisfying jobs, and some are used for therapy work.

The breed is highly intelligent and quick to learn, but it can be independent. Short sessions, consistency and positive rewards work best, and repetition quickly bores a PON. Training should start early and include recall, manners and calm greetings. A PON that lacks stimulation may bark, dig or find ways to herd the household.

Grooming and shedding

The long, shaggy coat requires regular work. Brush the whole dog thoroughly at least once or twice a week, down to the skin, to prevent mats, which form most easily behind the ears, under the legs and on the britches. Many pet owners keep the coat trimmed shorter to make care easier. PONs shed relatively little because loose hair tends to stay in the coat until it is brushed out.

The hair over the eyes and around the mouth may need trimming, and the beard gets wet and dirty at the water bowl. Check the ears, trim the nails and brush the teeth regularly. A bath every month or two is typical, with thorough drying.

Health

The PON is generally a hardy breed. Hip dysplasia is the most commonly screened orthopedic condition. Inherited eye diseases, including progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts, are checked with annual exams. Hypothyroidism, patellar luxation and some autoimmune conditions have been reported. The gene pool is small compared with that of popular breeds, so ask breeders about health testing and relatedness.

This is general information, and a veterinarian is the person to ask about a particular dog.

History

The PON is generally traced to the lowland plains of Poland, where shepherds used shaggy dogs of this type to manage flocks. Its ancestry is debated, and the Puli and the Tibetan Terrier are among the breeds suggested. The breed was nearly driven to extinction in the Second World War, and Dr. Danuta Hryniewicz and other Polish enthusiasts rebuilt it afterward, beginning in the 1950s. The American Kennel Club recognized it in 2001.

Is the Polish Lowland Sheepdog right for you?

The PON suits a family or individual who wants a smart, shaggy and affectionate dog and has the time to groom, train and exercise it. It is a poor match for someone who dislikes brushing, who is often away from home or who wants an uncomplicated dog that obeys without question.

The Old English Sheepdog is a larger and more famous shaggy herder. The Bearded Collie is bouncier, and the Briard is a bigger French breed with a wavy coat and a more guardian temperament.