The Polish Lowland Sheepdog is a medium sized, shaggy, long coated dog that wants to please. They make excellent watch dogs and guard dogs. They need early obedience training as they are strong willed. They need to be extensively socialized at an early age to get along with pets, other dogs and children. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.

Approximate Adult Size

The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Polish Lowland Sheepdog is 18 to 20 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 40 to 50 pounds. The female ranges from 17 to 19 inches to the withers and 30 to 40 pounds.

Special Health Considerations

Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Polish Lowland Sheepdog is no exception. Be on the look out for cancer, Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), Progressive Retinal Atrophy (inherited disease of the retina that can cause vision loss and blindness), diabetes, and epilepsy. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

Grooming

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog has a double coat. The outer coat is dense, long, straight and shaggy. The inner coat is dense and soft. She should be brushed every few days. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats, help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet.

Life Span

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog can live between 11 and 14 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

History

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog comes from Poland where they were used as herders. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1999.

Some Registries