Polish Lowland Sheepdog Breed Guide
Also known as: PON, Polski Owczarek Nizinny
Shaggy Polish herders, Polish Lowland Sheepdogs are confident, intelligent working dogs whose thick coats and alert nature suit active households.

Quick facts about this breed
Size
Medium
Weight
14-23 kg
Lifespan
12-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
Moderate
Size
Medium
Weight
14-23 kg
Lifespan
12-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
Moderate
About Polish Lowland Sheepdogs
Developed in Poland during the 16th century, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog was bred to herd sheep in the challenging terrain of the Polish lowlands. Their shaggy coat and keen intelligence made them excellent working dogs capable of independent decision-making.
Their long, shaggy coat requires daily brushing to prevent matting and professional grooming every few months. Polish Lowland Sheepdogs are intelligent and independent, known for their strong herding instincts and protective nature.
They are devoted to their families but can be reserved with strangers. Polish Lowland Sheepdogs need moderate exercise and excel at activities that engage their herding instincts. While generally healthy, potential owners should be aware of hip dysplasia, eye conditions, and bloat that can affect the breed.
Complete Care Guide for Polish Lowland Sheepdogs
Expert advice on keeping your Polish Lowland Sheepdog healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Establishing proper nutrition forms the foundation of health for Polish Lowland Sheepdogs. These active and intelligent dogs require carefully balanced meals that provide sustained energy throughout their busy days. High-quality proteins should constitute the primary component of their diet, supported by appropriate amounts of healthy fats and complex carbohydrates.
Maintaining consistent meal times proves particularly important for this breed, as they can develop a tendency toward overweight without proper portion control. Establishing a regular feeding schedule with measured portions helps prevent obesity while ensuring steady energy levels. Most adult Polish Lowland Sheepdogs thrive on two measured meals daily, though exact portions should align with their size, age, and activity level.
Beyond basic nutrition, proper hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining your dog's health. Fresh, clean water should always be available, with bowls refreshed multiple times daily. Some owners opt to incorporate moisture-rich foods into their dog's diet, which can support overall hydration levels and potentially benefit digestion.
When selecting commercial dog foods, carefully examine ingredient labels for clearly identified protein sources and wholesome ingredients. Avoid products with vague terminology or excessive fillers. Working with your veterinarian to develop an appropriate nutritional plan ensures your Polish Lowland Sheepdog receives the optimal balance of nutrients for their specific needs.
How healthy is your Polish Lowland Sheepdog?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Polish Lowland Sheepdogs from our community of pet parents
Polish Lowland Sheepdogs are known for their intelligent and alert nature. They are highly adaptable, being equally comfortable in a rural or urban setting. These dogs are very loyal to their families and can be somewhat reserved with strangers. Naturally protective, they make excellent watchdogs. However, they are not typically aggressive. Their high intelligence means they can be a little stubborn at times, so consistent, positive reinforcement training methods work best.
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