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Polish Lowland Sheepdog

AKC Name:
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Common Name(s):
Polski Owczarek Nizinny, PON, Polish Owczarek Nizinny Sheepdogs
AKC Group:
Herding
Observed Weight: Help
31-53 lbs
Show Weight: Help
33-44 lbs
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
History:

It is believed that the Polish Lowland Sheepdog is descended from the Hungarian Puli, the Tibetan breeds, and the herding dogs of the Huns. In 1514, Polish merchant, Kazimierz Grabski, traded a shipment of grain for sheep and bought six Polish Lowland Sheepdogs to move the sheep. In turn, a Scottish farmer impressed with their herding abilities traded to obtain three of these dogs.

This breed came close to extinction by the end of World War II but was saved by Dr. Danuta Hryeniewicz a polish veterinarian, who undertook revival of the breed using responsible breeding and promotion. Dr. Hryeniewicz's dog, Smok, was the model of the breed standard accepted by the Federation Cynologique Internationale in 1959.

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog was brought to France and the United States in the 1980's. Although gaining in numbers, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog is still considered a rare breed. This breed was finally recognized by the AKC in 2001.

Identifying Features:
Average Height: 16 - 20 in
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