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Dog Breed

Polish Lowland Sheepdog

Breed Overview

Breed Name: Polish Lowland Sheepdog

Origin: Poland

Breed Group: Herding

Physical Characteristics

Size: Medium

Height: Male: 18–20 inches (45–51 cm), Female: 17–19 inches (43–48 cm)

Weight: Male: 35–55 lbs (16–25 kg), Female: 30–50 lbs (14–23 kg)

Coat Type: Long, shaggy, dense double coat with a soft undercoat

Coat Colors: White, gray, black, brown, or tan with patches or markings

Grooming Needs: High (regular brushing to prevent matting)

Shedding: Moderate

Behavioral Traits

Temperament: Lively, intelligent, loyal, confident, alert

Intelligence Level: High

Energy Level: Moderate to High

Health Information

Lifespan: 12–14 years

Common Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, eye conditions, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)

Care

Nutrition Needs: Balanced, high-quality diet for medium active breeds

Exercise Needs: Moderate – enjoys daily walks, play, and herding games

Space Requirements: Adaptable; does well in apartments if exercised properly

Noise Sensitivity: Moderate (alert watchdog, may bark)

Socialization and Training

Socialization Needs: High

Socialization Tips: Very intelligent and responsive; excels in obedience and agility with positive training

Good with Children: Yes, generally sociable

Good with Other Dogs: Yes, generally sociable

Good with Other Pets: Yes, with proper introductions

Training: Very intelligent and responsive; excels in obedience and agility with positive training

Description

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog (or PON, short for Polski Owczarek Nizinny) is a hardy, intelligent herding breed from Poland, known for its thick, shaggy coat and excellent memory. Originally bred to manage livestock, these dogs are also alert, loyal companions and make great watchdogs thanks to their natural wariness of strangers.

Their dense, long coat needs regular brushing (several times per week) to prevent matting and manage seasonal shedding. PONs are highly trainable but can be independent, so they do best with positive, consistent routines and plenty of mental stimulation like obedience, herding games, or dog sports.

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History

Origin: The Polish Lowland Sheepdog (PON), known in Poland as Polski Owczarek Nizinny, has existed in its present form since at least the 13th century. It likely descends from a mix of herding dogs, including the Hungarian Puli, Tibetan Terrier, and possibly dogs brought by the Huns during their invasions of Eastern Europe. The breed was developed in the lowland regions of Poland as a versatile herding and guard dog, prized for its intelligence, endurance, and protective instincts.
Development: The PON was traditionally used by Polish farmers for herding sheep and cattle and guarding property. Its moderate size and sturdy build allowed it to work all day herding livestock and protect flocks from predators like foxes. The breed was almost driven to extinction during World War II, with only a few surviving dogs kept by farmers. The breed’s revival is credited mainly to Dr. Danuta Hryniewicz and her dog Smok, who sired the first ten litters of post-war PONs in the 1950s. Smok became the foundation for the modern breed standard, which was officially accepted by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1959. The PON’s moderate build, agility, and temperament reflect its working heritage.
Recognition: The Polish Lowland Sheepdog was recognized by the FCI in 1959 and by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2001, where it is placed in the Herding Group. The breed has also been acknowledged by various national kennel clubs and breed organizations worldwide. It is considered a hardy, intelligent, and trainable breed, suitable both for farm work and as a family companion.
Today, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog is valued as an intelligent, active, and loyal companion. It retains strong herding instincts and requires regular physical and mental stimulation. The breed adapts well to apartment living due to its moderate size but thrives when given tasks or activities to engage its working drive. PONs are known for their affectionate nature with family, protective instincts, and alertness toward strangers. Their dense, weather-resistant coat requires regular grooming. The breed typically weighs 14–16 kg (30–35 lbs) and lives about 10–12 years. While still relatively rare outside Poland, the PON is gaining popularity worldwide as a versatile herding dog and companion.

Ideal Owner

Active families or individuals who enjoy a loyal, trainable, and fluffy companion

Similar Breeds

Bearded Collie, Old English Sheepdog, Briard, Shetland Sheepdog