History of occurrence
The Polish Lowland Sheepdog derives its name because it worked on the lowland plains of Poland. It is likely that this medium-sized, robust sheepdog evolved from ancient, corded herding dogs from the Hungarian plains, which were bred with other small, long-coated mountain herders. The damage of World War II very nearly led to the breed's extinction. This breed was revived by diligent Polish breeders after World War II. Popular in Poland and elsewhere, it is generally kept as a household companion, although it remains an excellent herder.
General form
Medium size, cobby, strong, muscular, fairly long thick coat.
Отличительная особенность породы Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Head and Skull: medium size, proportionate to body, not too heavy, carried moderately low. Profuse hair on forehead, cheeks and chin make head appear larger than it is. Proportions of occiput to stop and stop to nose approximately equal, but muzzle may be fractionally shorter. Skull moderately broad, slightly domed, furrow from stop to occiput apparent when handled. Well defined stop. Nose blunt, wide opened nostrils, colour dark as possible.
Eyes: medium size, lively penetrating gaze, oval shaped. Colour hazel to brown. Eye rims as dark as possible, closely fitting and showing no haw.
Ears: medium size, heart-shaped, large at base and set moderately high, drooping with fore edge close to cheeks.
Mouth: jaws strong with a perfect, regular and complete scissor bite, ie the upper teeth closing overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws. Strong and evenly placed teeth. Lips tightly closed and as dark as possible.
Neck: strong, muscular, medium length without dewlap.
Body: rectangular rather than square when viewed from side. Deep brisket with moderate spring of rib, neither flat nor barrel shaped. Withers distinctly marked; back level, muscular, with broad loin. Belly slightly drawn up. Croup short and slightly sloping.
Forequarters: shoulders well placed with good lay-back, muscular. Legs when viewed from front or side, straight with slightly slanting pastern.
Hindquarters: well angulated, with broad and well muscled thigh. From behind, legs straight, turning neither in nor out. Hocks strong and distinctly angled.
Feet: oval, slightly arched but tightly fitting toes, with hard pads, nails dark. Hind dewclaws should be removed.
Customarily docked if not born tail-less.
Coat: whole body covered with long, dense, shaggy thick coat of harsh texture with soft undercoat. Long hair covers eyes. Slight wave permissible. No loose skin anywhere on body.
Colour: all colours acceptable.
Smooth walking or trotting. Inclined to amble.
Height:
Dogs — 43-52 cm.
Bitches — 40-46 cm.
Character
The Polish Lowland Sheepdog is an active friendly dog. The Polish Lowland Sheepdog is excellent with children when raised with them from puppyhood, and can be friendly with other dogs; but they will hold their own if another dog tries to knock them out from being the leader. They will usually do okay with other non-canine pets. As a working dog for many centuries, it is happiest when it is given a job to do. This breed is lively and clever enough to work sheep alone. This cute, shaggy dog does not grow into a calm, little lap-dog. This breed needs an owner who is firm and consistent. Socialisation and training are important.
Maintenance care
The Polish Lowland Sheepdog needs daily exercise, either a moderate to long walk or a vigorous romp. It particularly enjoys herding. It can live outside only in temperate to cool climates, but would prefer to have access to the house. Its coat needs brushing or combing every other day, or it may form mats.
Lifespan — 12-15 years.
Dignity
An enthusiastic working dog, strong and durable, athletic and agile -- thrives on vigorous exercise and challenging activities.
Calm indoors (with enough exercise).
Makes a vigilant watchdog.
Difficulty keeping
Vigorous exercise requirements.
Destructiveness when bored or not exercised enough.
Suspiciousness toward strangers when not socialized enough.
Aggression toward other animals — chasing instincts.
Strong-willed mind of his own, requiring a confident owner who can take charge.
Chasing and nipping at things that move: children, joggers, other animals, bikes, cars.
Lots of brushing and combing.
Shedding.
"Shaggy dog syndrome," i.e. debris clinging to the coat, water soaking into the beard and dripping on your floors.
Waiting lists (hard to find) and a high price tag.
Diseases
The Polish Lowland Shepherd does not not generally suffer from any major or minor ailments. However, a veterinarian may recommend hip and eye exams for this breed of dog.
