Polish Owczarek Nizinny

• Breed Origin: Poland -The Polish Owczarek Nizinny or Polish Lowland Sheepdog is an ancient herding dog breed known in Poland since the 16th century and believed to be a descendant of the Puli. During the early 1500s, a Polish ship sailed to Scotland leaving behind one male and two female dogs in exchange for sheep from a Scottish shepherd. It is believed that these three dogs were ancestors to the Bearded Collie and to which the Polish Owczarek Nizinny bears a close resemblance in both character and appearance. In Canada, the United States and Poland, the breed is commonly referred to as the PON or Polish Owczarek Nizinny. In some European countries, the breed is known as the Nizinny. Following World War II, the breed was almost reached the level of extinction but today it is back and is well established. Polish Owczarek Nizinny was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2001.

• Coat Colors: Black, Grey, Brown, Black & White, Tri-color, Beige

• Description: The Polish Owczarak Nizinny is a medium-sized, shaggy-coated dog native to Poland. The shaggy-coat is both thick and long, which gives waterproof protection in harsh weather conditions. The Polish Owczarek Nizinny comes with a long ,wire-haired coat , plus a very smooth and soft under-coat. The most common coat colors are white with grey or black, but plain grey is the most common variety around the world. The eyes are usually a rich brown or hazel in color, and the nose is dark. This dog is well-proportioned, athletic and muscular. Polish Owczarak Nizinny have a lot of hair on their forehead, cheeks, and chin area. The legs are covered with a dense hair and the thighs are of muscular build. The tail is usually quite short and the dog has a natural bobtail. The neck holds the head high, and the head is almost apple-shaped and quite round. Although this dog is fairly rare in the United States, it is commonly found throughout Europe. TThe shaggy-eyed look of these dogs gives them a friendly and happy appearance, and they bond well with children.

• Exercise Requirements: The Polish Owczarek Nizinny being a natural sheepdog, comes with built in, boundless energy. This is a dog that enjoys running for the thrill of it. These dogs have a lot of stamina and will have plenty of energy to spare despite their intensive bouts of exercise. Running, swimming, and jogging alongside a bicycle are ideal for the Polish Owczarek Nizinny.

• Grooming: The Polish Owczarak Nizinny or Polish Lowland Sheepdog is considered a non-shedding breed. They have a double coat that requires regular brushing and it is important to get your Polish Owczarek Nizinny used to being groomed from a very young age. The Polish Owczarek Nizinny puppy should be gently brushed on a daily basis. Between the age of 6 to 12 months, the Polish Owczarek Nizinny puppies undercoat will start to grow in and care must be taken to prevent knots and matting, this is especially true for behind the ears and under the arms.

• Hereditary Disorders:

• Height: Male: 18–20 inches (45–50 cm), Female: 17–19 inches (42–47 cm)

• Hypoallergenic: Yes

• Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years

• Living Area Requirements:

• Temperament: Intelligent, Agile, Lively, Even Tempered, Self-Confident, Perceptive.
  The Polish Owczarek Nizinny is lively, vigilant, intelligent, perceptive and a memory that is outstanding. It is is a hardy, able-bodied dog who thrives on regular exercise and loves a challenge, thus does very well in such activities as agility, flyball and obedience competition. In addition, not only is he an excellent sheep herder, the Polish Owczarek Nizinny also works does well with cattle. It is a hard working, obedient and fearless breed, protecting his herd, whatever threat may present itself. Polish Owczarek Nizinny are very gentle-natured and are known to be very good with children. Often cautious and wary of strangers but always extremely loyal to family members, the Polish Owczarek Nizinny also makes a great guard dog.

• Weight: Male: 13.6–15.9 kg, Female: 13.6–15.9 kg