Polish Lowland Sheepdogs: A guide to dogs and puppies of the Polish Lowland Sheepdog breed

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog!

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog, also known as the Polski Owczarek Nizinny or PON, has worked alongside Polish shepherds and farmers since the 16th century. It has served as herding dog for centuries. Quite adept in a busy farm setting, this breed is known for its stamina and muscular build, as well as its long, wiry double coat that gives it protection and an adorably unkempt look. It has a dark nose, hazel or brown eyes, a docked tail, an even bite, and a smooth gait. Polish breeders revived the Nizinny after World War II, which almost wiped out this hardworking breed.

Some Quick Facts:

Life Expectancy:
12-15 years

Energy Level:
Above average.

Living Conditions:
Cooler climates. Indoor/Outdoor.

Barking:
Average

Exercise Needs:
High, but mainly for intellectual stimulation.

Breed Group:
Herding

Size:
Medium-Small

Height:
16 to 20 inches

Weight:
30 to 40 pounds

Standard Hair Colors:
Pure gray or white with black or gray, though all coat colors are acceptable.

National breed club:
American Polish Lowland Sheepdog Club

Polish Lowland Sheepdog Skills

A true working dog, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog rarely does well as a lap dog. Having been trained as a herd dog for centuries, the breed can get restless when left alone or made to stay indoors for long periods. Nevertheless, it makes a dependable and alert companion, and continues to exhibit its tried-and-tested ability in herding trials.

Polish Lowland Sheepdog Personality

A quick learner, the intelligent PON can be willing to please, though at times, it will not readily follow commands. The hard-worker that it is, the Nizinny, though quite lively, tends to be a serious dog that will need to work to stay happy. It can be a good pet for attentive children, and may do well around most other pets and dogs, though it will defend itself when challenge. It is also quite protective of its territory, and will bark in the presence of strangers.

Exercise Needs

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog needs lots of exercise and intellectual stimulation to stay satisfied. This breed may be a good choice for an active owner, as it can be a great hiking partner or Frisbee catcher. It will also do well in regular agility classes, in the absence of herding work.

Living Conditions

Cooler climates are preferable for this dog. Though this breed remains a good choice for farm life, it may also be amenable to apartment living, as long as it has work to do, and is taken outdoors and exercised frequently.

Grooming Requirements

To prevent matting, the Nizinny’s coat needs thorough brushing a couple of times a week. Trimming for this breed is unnecessary, even for show dogs.

Health Issues

The breed tends to be extremely healthy, with no significant health concerns.

If you liked this dog…

You may also like the Scottish Collie, also a herding dog valued for its watchdog ability and gentle nature. This breed rivals the Polish Lowland Sheepdog in its intelligence and diligent character.