Breed: Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Temperament: active, territorial
Maintenance: high
Lifespan: 13-14 years
Cost: $300 – $600
Recommended for: active people
History
Instinctively, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog is first and foremost a herding dog. However its popularity as a companion animal, particulary in Europe, has grown since restorative breeding programs were introduced after the breed’s near demise during the Second World War.
Believed to have been originally bred from other shaggy herding dogs similar to the Puli, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog has a history dating back to the sixteenth century and is suited to the harsh winter climates of Europe. Polish Lowland Sheepdogs have limited popularity outside of Europe, with only around 100 of the breed estimated to be in Australia.
Appearance
These sheepdogs are about the size of the Australian Cattle dog, the largest standing up to 52cm (1’8″) at the wither. The body is stocky, the back flat and broad and the head large. The coat is long, thick and shaggy; falling over the eyes and wavy in appearance but never curly. The outer coat is coarse and harsh, protecting the softer undercoat. Any colour is acceptable. The shaggy coat falls over the eyes and gives the dog the appearance of being larger in size than it actually is. Dogs may be born tail-less, but they are mostly born with tails of strange shapes and differing lengths. Those born with tails generally have them docked by the breeder.
Temperament
As with many of the herding breeds, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog is protective and territorial. Many dog breeds with long fringes covering their eyes are wary of strangers and the Polish is no exception. These dogs are alert, independent and have strong guarding instincts. Obedience training from an early age is essential, and don’t spoil the dog too much, otherwise it may become over-protective, undisciplined and possibly aggressive to others. Effective training will curb these tendencies, producing a good natured dog gentle with its family members. Regardless of its training, it will always remain a diligent guard dog. Be aware though if around young children. Even with the best of intentions this strong, boisterous breed can knock over a small child.
Maintenance
Very high maintenance. The long shaggy coat is prone to matting, and Polish Lowland owners will often spend up to three hours a week bathing, brushing and generally grooming their dog. Particular attention should be paid to the ears, eyes and between the foot pads. The coat can be thinned down with a fine steel comb often called a ‘collie comb’. The inside of the feet need to be clipped to prevent matting and the belly is often shaved. These active dogs need exercise everyday, the younger dogs requiring relatively more. They love to play in water. This active nature also means that Polish Lowlands have a ravenous appetite, they will eat anything and have a tendency of getting overweight.
Health and lifespan
With no known genetic problems, this breed has an average lifespan of around 14 years. Although the genetic pool is relatively small, having been bred up from only a small number of post-war survivors, the breed has been able to maintain itself as a very sound animal right across the world. However they are not known to be very good breeders and litter sizes are small.
Ideal owner and cost
Not for the lazy owner. These dogs need attention, activity, human contact and training. The breed doesn’t like being alone and is best suited to pairs or with another suitable companion. A balance between providing it with a loving environment without spoiling the dog is essential. Otherwise the dog may become over-protective, undisciplined and at worse aggressive. According to one breeder, almost one in six purchased dogs have been re-homed due to owners being under-prepared for life with a Polish. If you are happy to take up the challenge, a Polish can make for a very loyal and good natured family dog. Average cost is between $300 – $600.
Further information
We filmed this Road Test with Hana Chrudimska in Perth. Hana first started breeding Polish Lowland Sheepdogs in 1993 after owning them for three years. Sadly, Hana passed away in May 2002. Hana is missed by many, especially those who now own one of her special dogs.
There are not many breeders of Polish Lowland Sheepdogs. For further advice on the breed contact Aileen McClay in South Australia, (08) 8388 2224; or Veronika and Malcolm Miles in Victoria, (03) 5346 1304.