The Polish Lowland Sheepdog

This month’s featured breed article is the original shaggy dog story!

Similar in appearance to the Old English Sheepdog (the famous Dulux dog), but smaller in stature, the Polish Lowland is, like its pommy cousin, a herding dog. As the name suggests, the breed originated in Poland, where it has been used since around the 13th century. The Polish Lowland is also the ancestor of the more celebrated and better-known Border Collie.

According to folklore, a Polish merchant called Kazimierz Grabski came to Scotland in 1514 to trade a shipment of grain for sheep. He brought six Polish Lowlands with him to herd the sheep and the local shepherds were so impressed with the dogs’ rounding-up abilities that they gave Grabski a ram and two ewes in exchange for a dog and two bitches. Those animals were then bred with local Scottish dogs to create the Collie.

Such positive history has been overshadowed in more recent times, particularly as Poland endured Nazi occupation during the Second World War. In that dark period, the breed was almost wiped out, being resurrected only in the 1950s thanks to the work of Dr Danuta Hryniewicz and her dog Smok, the ancestor of all Polish Lowlands in the world today.

Breed characteristics
The Polish Lowland is of comparable size to an Australian Cattle Dog. It has a stocky, muscular body, broad, flat back and thick double coat that requires brushing at least weekly to prevent the fur from becoming matted. Although the breed’s head is naturally large, the hair on the face makes it appear even bigger. Dogs are often born tail-less, or with tails of irregular size and shape. Breeders generally dock the Polish Lowland’s tail before selling.

The Polish Lowland’s colouring varies. White, gray and brown are the most common colours, with black, gray or brown markings.

In terms of temperament, the Polish Lowland is a natural herder, meaning it can be protective and territorial, particularly if strangers are around. These dogs are alert and independent, meaning training is essential from an early age. However, although boisterous (meaning the breed may not be ideal for families with very young children), they are loving and loyal, making them ideal companions.

Regular exercise is essential, with Polish Lowlands loving the water (watch out for that shake!). They are also genetically healthy, although they do have a tendency towards obesity if allowed to overeat. The Polish Lowland lives for about 14 years, but doesn’t like being left alone in that time. Consider buying as a pair (or twinning with another dog) to ensure maximum contentment.

•    This ‘Breed of the Month’ was requested by a Dog Diaries member. If you’d like to request a breed, feel free to let us know…

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