Polish Greyhound

The Polish Greyhound is an ancient Polish breed that is rare outside Poland. Known for their protective, loyal instincts, these dogs have a sleek body and head with slanting almond eyes, long snout, floppy ears, and a broad, muscular neck. Their legs are well-proportioned, and the waist is thin, ending with a long, hanging tail.

Polish Greyhound Pictures

History

Despite its name, the Polish Greyhounds are not directly related to the ‘Greyhound’ group. Its Polish name, Chart Polski, literally translates to ‘Polish Sighthound’. The primary purpose of breeding these dogs was hunting, roe deer, hares, wolves, and bustards. Polish Greyhound has its mention in the written documents from the 16^th century.

Today, experts believe that this breed originated in Poland from the Saluki-type Asiatic sighthounds. The UKC recognized this breed on 1^st January 1996. Its ‘breed standards’ is based on the 19th-century paintings by artists Jozef Brandt, Juliusz Kossak, and Alfreda Wierusz-Kowalski.

Temperament and Behavior

Unusual for sighthounds, the Chart Polski is quite protective of their territories (their owner’s house), making them an excellent watchdog. Though very loyal to their family members, they are not comfortable living together with other pets despite being brought up together. However, they are good with children.

These are energetic dogs that enjoy playing and running around the house. Due to their somewhat dominating disposition, they are not recommended for novice owners. Polish Greyhounds often tend to be aloof in front of strangers.

Care

• Exercise

• Grooming

• Health Problems

Since this dog was bred to run, hunt and work, never keep them under-exercised. It might lead to destructive habits, notoriety, shyness, or even aggression issues. Take them out for daily walks, preferably twice a day, so that they get the scope to release their energy. For best results, allow them to run off-leash inside an enclosed area.

Polish Greyhounds have a short coat, which requires only a little grooming. Brush them once or twice a week, but bathe only when necessary.

Not known to have any serious genetic disorders, a few general cases of cancer, bloating and some heart diseases, including cardiomyopathy, have been reported.

Training

• Because of their strong territorial instinct, it is important to give them a thorough leash training. But remember, while training your dog, if it acts up or barks at other objects (like cars or dogs), never rebuke or pull back on its leash. Your behavior would only aggravate its excitement level by making the experience negative. It would eventually associate that feeling with the object it targeted.
• If your dog is wary of strangers (or often get aggressive), try on a muzzle to prevent the danger of bites or attacks. The experience with the muzzle would help it stay calm and be more receptive to strangers.
• Socialize your dog from time to time. Take it out to nearby dog parks, so it can see how other dogs interact with each other. Such experiences would help it feel relaxed and induce a sense of tolerance in its mind.

Diet/Feeding

One meal serving a day is typically sufficient for this breed. 2½ to 3 cups of high-quality dry kibble is enough to feed your dog daily.

Interesting Facts

• The Polish Kennel Club honored an American breeder couple Kaz and Betty for introducing and promoting the breed in the United States.