Other Names

Polski Owczarek  Nizinny, commonly abbreviated to PON, Polish Sheepdog, Polish Lowland Sheepdog, Valee Shepherd, Nizinny

 

Ego smiling!!!!

Country of Origin - Poland; Famous Dogs - Smok z Kordegardy (right), born 1949, considered as the ‘father’ of the post War PON.  PONs were originally used as sheepdogs and flock protectors, today they are more often family and companion dogs and seen in the show-ring. They are strong, muscular, compact dogs who appear alert and lively. Their coats are fairly long, dense and shaggy with a soft under-layer and they do not shed! They have a smooth walk and trot and can be inclined to pace. They are much stronger than the size of their body may imply.



FAQs

Feeding - £5 – 7.50 per week

Cost of a Puppy -  The average price of a puppy is £850 - £900

Age Expectancy - PON’s live, on average up to 12 years; they have been known to live up to 16 years.
 
Litter Size - An average litter is 4 - 6 puppies, much larger litters do occur but are infrequent.
 

Freddy and Oscar like to colour with felt tipped pens!

Weight & Height Range -                
Dogs  17 - 19 3/4 ins,  18 - 22kgs approx
Bitches  16 1/2- 18 1/2 ins,  17 - 20kgs approx
 

Exercise Requirements - PONs need a reasonable amount of exercise! They are herding dogs in heart and mind and must therefore be given ample opportunity to stimulate their minds. 2 short walks a day will not suffice. This type of dog can do well in agility, obedience or fly-ball, activities in which they will relish! They are very playful, with a great sense of fun and enjoy chasing a ball or toys.
 

Character & Temperament - PONs are animated, happy and alert. They are lively but self-controlled, watchful and clever; they can also be very stubborn. They are affectionate and very loyal to all the family members but can be wary with strangers although they should never be cowardly or aggressive. They make excellent family pets as they are usually exemplary with children, dogs and other pets. They will announce visitors at the top of their voices, making them good guard dogs as well. Physical maturity is reached at about 18 - 20 months of age.

 
Colours - All colours are seen in this breed, the most usual being white with grey or black patches, or plain grey.

 
Grooming - A thorough grooming must take place at least once a week, with a brush over again in the week to prevent tangles caused from exercise, such as small bits of twig in the coat. 

 
Ailments - Little veterinary research is available on the breed because of the PONs' relative rarity and insufficient evidence is available from breeders and vets in Poland. However it would appear that the breed is subject to the common hereditary problems that affect many breeds. That said, the conditions affecting this breed are more individual than breed-specific. It is a very healthy breed.

It is recommended that the usual precautions of screening for hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy are taken. Some skin inflammation and allergic reactions have been reported, this may well be diet-induced. The PON does not require a high protein, high fat diet and such a diet may lead to overheating and obesity problems.

Intelligence & trainability

PONs have incredible memories and are therefore easy to train. They are also happy to do things for their handlers – if they are in the mood. This is a highly-intelligent working breed and the dogs will therefore make decisions for themselves and, because of this, will test the patience of their owners regularly! They will not follow commands blindly - they are not that stupid!