Polish Lowland Sheepdog

Developed over centuries on Poland’s lowland pastures, the PON worked as an agile drover and flock manager—valued for keen memory, problem-solving, and weatherproof coat. World War II decimated numbers, but fanciers revived the breed in the 1950s–60s, leading to modern standardization and international recognition (FCI). The breed entered the AKC Herding Group in 2001 and is recognized in Canada by the CKC. Today, PONs remain capable herders and popular sport companions while retaining their confident, watchful nature.

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A compact, muscular, rectangular herder cloaked in a dense, shaggy double coat.

• Weight: 30–50 lb (14–23 kg)
• Height: 18–20 in (males), 17–19 in (females)
• Coat Type: Long, dense double coat; harsh outer coat with soft undercoat
• Coat Colors: Any colour/pattern common; frequently white with patches of black, gray, brown, or fawn; solids and particolours occur
• Distinctive Physical Traits: Broad head with abundant hair over eyes, strong forechest, level topline, medium tail (natural or bob), oval feet, lively, ground-covering gait

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That glorious mop needs methodical maintenance to stay healthy and mat-free.

• Brushing/Combing: 2–3×/week through to skin; daily during seasonal sheds
• De-matting: Check armpits, behind ears, chest, breeches, tail base weekly
• Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks; fully dry the undercoat to prevent hotspots
• Trimming: Light tidy of feet/sanitary/vision line every 6–8 weeks (do not shave to skin)
• Ears/Teeth/Nails: Clean ears weekly; brush teeth 2–3×/week; trim nails every 3–4 weeks
• Shedding: Moderate year-round; heavier spring/fall “coat blows”

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Athletic and task-oriented—needs daily outlets for body and brain.

• Daily Exercise: 60–75 minutes (split walks, off-leash play in secure areas, training)
• Ideal Activities: Herding, agility, rally, obedience, hiking, scent/nose work
• Suitability: Performs well in houses or apartments with real daily exercise and mental enrichment

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Exceptionally intelligent, observant, and sometimes opinionated—keep it upbeat and consistent.

• Approach: Positive reinforcement; vary games to avoid boredom; clear boundaries
• Socialization: Early, ongoing exposure to people, places, surfaces, and dogs to balance watchdog tendencies
• Focus Areas: Reliable recall, polite greetings (they can herd/nudge), “quiet” on cue (alert barkers)
• Brain Work: Trick chains, nosework hides, pattern games, place/settle to build an off-switch

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Feed for lean muscle and sustained energy without adding bulk to the coat.

• Food Type: High-quality kibble or balanced fresh diet for active medium breeds
• Daily Quantity: ~2–3 cups total, split into two meals (adjust to age/workload)
• Feeding Schedule: Twice daily
• Diet Advice: Prioritize animal protein; add omega-3s (EPA/DHA) for skin/coat; maintain a healthy body condition (4–5/9)

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Choose health-tested, well-socialized dogs from transparent sources—or consider rescue.

• Breeders: Seek CKC-affiliated preservation breeders who provide hip/eye results, early socialization plans, and lifetime take-back
• Adoption: Check herding-breed rescues and PON breed clubs’ rehoming networks
• Canadian Resources: Canadian Kennel Club breeder directory; regional herding/obedience clubs in ON/BC/QC for networking and sport introductions

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Generally robust, but responsible screening matters.

• Common Issues: Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) in some lines, cataracts, hypothyroidism, patellar luxation (less common)
• Life Expectancy: 12–15 years
• Recommended Testing: Hips (OFA/FCI), ophthalmologist exams (CAER) and DNA for PRA where available; thyroid panel as advised by your vet

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Are Polish Lowland Sheepdogs good apartment dogs?
With 60–75 minutes of daily exercise and solid training, yes—otherwise their energy and alert barking can overwhelm small spaces.

Do PONs shed a lot?
Moderately year-round with seasonal increases; regular, through-to-skin brushing controls it.

Are Polish Lowland Sheepdogs hypoallergenic?
No. They are not hypoallergenic despite a coat that can appear to trap hair.

Do PONs bark a lot?
They’re vigilant watchdogs. Teach a reliable “quiet,” manage window triggers, and meet exercise needs.

How much grooming does a PON need?
Brush 2–3×/week (daily in shedding seasons), bathe every 6–8 weeks, and keep tangle-prone zones checked.

Are PONs good with kids and other pets?
Yes, with early socialization and supervision; redirect herding nudges into games.

How easy are they to train?
Very trainable with positive methods; they remember everything—good and bad—so be consistent.

What activities suit a PON?
Herding, agility, rally, obedience, scent work, and brisk hikes—anything that engages body and mind.

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