Origin
There are several versions of the origin of the Tatra dog (the second name for the Podgalyan Shepherd Dog).
The first tells that its roots go back to antiquity. The Polish Shepherd is considered the oldest breed. Looking at the power and appearance of the representatives of the breed, breeders long ago came to the conclusion: in the family of Tatra Shepherd Dogs there were Tibetan mastiffs. The ancestors of the Polish dog found themselves in Europe in the 4th-6th centuries BC. They came along with the Huns and Avars.
The second legend tells about cruel nomadic tribes. They moved from Tibet to the Tatras, destroying everyone in their path. The nomads were accompanied by huge and very ferocious dogs. In appearance, the animals resembled bears, and their cruelty was indescribable. Dogs guarded nomadic tribes. Soon the nomads settled in the Tatras, and their pets remained next to them. People needed to survive, and the active development of sheep farming began. The climate in the Tatra Mountains was not particularly comfortable. The dogs were required to have maximum adaptability to mountainous terrain, herding and guarding skills.
Polish Podgalian Sheepdogs helped herd and guard flocks of sheep
Origin story
The first mention of white herding dogs in the Podhale region dates back to the 17th century, but it is believed that they appeared here much earlier. The most popular version of their origin says that white herding dogs descended from Tibetan mastiffs; during their journey from East Asia to Europe, they changed greatly and left behind a trail of indigenous breeds: Mongolian, Caucasian, Gampr and others. The first description of the Podgalyan Shepherd Dog was made in 1938 by V. Wieland, who called them “mountain shepherds.” Wieland was the first foreigner to talk about them as a breed. In his work, he writes that the Tatras and Carpathians are inhabited by white shepherd dogs, which are undoubtedly related to the Hungarian Kuvasz. From time to time, breeding material from different sides of the border mixes.
Factory breeding of Tatra Shepherd Dogs began in the 20s of the 20th century. Soon after the First World War they were recognized as a national treasure. In the early 30s, Podgals began to be bred outside their natural habitat, in Warsaw and Lviv. The first special breed exhibition was held in 1937. Since the 50s, the silhouette of the Podhale shepherd dog adorns the emblem of the Polish Kennel Club, which once again proves the value of the breed for the country.
Purpose
The Polish Podgalian Shepherd Dog is a typical representative of large herding dogs, whose main task is to protect livestock from predatory animals and people. But in addition, they are capable of performing some of the functions of cattle dogs: finding lost animals, restraining and guiding the herd. In everyday life, they are wonderful guards, calm by nature, but always on alert.
Currently, the need to protect livestock from wolves and bears is not so urgent, but, as in the past, the Polish Shepherd excels in the role of watchman, security guard, companion and family dog.
Video about the dog breed Polish Podgalian Shepherd (Tatran Sheepdog):
Breed standard, description and color
The Polish Podgalian Sheepdog received its own description less than a century ago. This breed is ancient, but not aboriginal. It was modified as a result of breeding work.
The first exhibition of representatives of the breed took place in 1937. The zootechnical event took place in Zakopane, at the foot of the Tatra Mountains. It was here that the first breed standard was developed.
Head
Dry and strong, the skull is rounded. The transition from forehead to muzzle is not clearly expressed. The muzzle is long, tapering towards the bottom. The ears are thick, of medium length, “semi-dropping”. The eyes are very expressive, dark brown in color. The nose is large and black. Lips are dry and tight. Scissor bite.
Torso
According to the breed description, the dogs have a muscular neck. The body is long, the withers are pronounced. The back is wide, the chest is deep, the loin is long. The croup is sloping. The stomach is taut. The tail is low set and reaches the hock joint.
Forelegs
Muscular and long. The paws are oval, the pads are hard. The claws are dark in color.
Hind limbs
Slightly pulled back when looking at the dog from the side. Long. Paws are oval shaped with hard pads. The claws are dark.
Wool
On the muzzle and paws it is short and thick. The undercoat is well developed. The wool is soft to the touch. The body is covered with long, wavy hair with a dense undercoat.
Color
Let's say white. Light spots are considered a deviation from the standard.
Height and weight
The Podgalyan Shepherd Dog is a large dog. The minimum height of a male dog is 65 centimeters. Females are smaller - 60 centimeters. The weight of representatives of both sexes reaches 70 kilograms.
Podgalyansky Shepherd dog standing
Character and characteristics of the breed
The main advantage of Polish dogs is their temperament. Representatives of the breed seem to be phlegmatic: reactions are inhibited, the pet gives the impression of being eternally sleepy. This is a deep misconception. An adult dog is constantly on guard. The breeders and owners of these dogs assure that their pets are on “high alert” for 24 hours. Imaginary sleepiness is the ability to conserve your energy. The shepherd dog controls the territory entrusted to it so skillfully that a stranger looking at the light will not understand this.
The breed's characteristics include the ability to make independent decisions. Its origins lie in ancient times, when snow-white dogs had to protect nomadic tribes from predators.
Polish Shepherds are agile, attentive and efficient. The character can be described as follows: typical sanguine people. The processes of excitation and inhibition are equally developed. The dogs were bred for protection, and their intelligence and fearlessness are not surprising.
The Podgalyan Shepherd Dog is affectionate with members of the household. She has only one owner. Usually the pet's heart is given to the head of the family. He will listen to him unquestioningly. Earning a dog's respect is not easy. The owner must have leadership qualities, be able to find contact with the dog and influence it only morally. Descendants of mastiffs hate violence against themselves. They were bred to serve people. And this does not mean that a person can influence a dog physically. The dog is capable of giving a cruel and decisive rebuff. The Podgalyansky dog attacks instantly, without warning.
The Podgalyan Shepherd chooses only one family member as its leader
These animals require socialization from early childhood. The puppies look very touching, a teddy white bear. You can forgive him a lot for his appearance. Trouble will come when the pet grows up. An ill-mannered dog, slightly smaller than a calf, is a living killing machine. Considering the disposition of the representatives of the breed, their ability to make decisions independently, training and socialization should be present in the life of the Podgalyansky dog from puppyhood.
IMPORTANT! The Podgalyan Shepherd is a large breed with a difficult character.
Attitude towards people, children and pets
A Polish shepherd appeared in the house, and friends unanimously refused to come visit. In vain, a dog will not injure a person without a command. If he does not pose a threat to her and the owner’s family members. The animal sees that the owner calmly communicates with strangers. It will patiently monitor the actions of outsiders. In the presence of the owner, nothing threatens the guests except close attention from the dog. You shouldn't leave them alone with their faithful guardian. A brave guest may suddenly rise from his chair, wave his hand, or laugh loudly. The dog will perceive his actions as a threat to himself. There will be big troubles.
Representatives of the breed are patient with children. Some owners believe that their dogs are wonderful nannies. This is not so, representatives of the breed will not offend a child, they allow the little person to do whatever he wants to them. But the qualities inherent in the descendants of mastiffs are far from conducive to making them nannies for babies.
Podgalyan Shepherd Dogs are very tolerant of children.
Loyal to pets. The ideal option for their peaceful existence would be if the dog settled in the family later than other four-legged inhabitants. The puppy was brought into a house where a cat already lived. They are completely indifferent to other dog breeds. Since ancient times, Polish Shepherds lived in a pack and served together. The presence of dogs does not bother them.
How to raise and train
A person who wants to raise this dog must learn to restrain his negative emotions and not offend his pupil. It is important to establish and maintain an even, friendly relationship with him from the very beginning.
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Rudeness and irritability are categorically unacceptable when communicating with an animal. At the same time, the dog must feel the indisputability of the owner’s will; firmness and strength of character combined with friendliness. Manifestations of weakness and rudeness are equally unacceptable.
Training begins at two months of age. At the first stage, the puppy must be accustomed to life outside the enclosure, yard, or home. He needs to be walked three to four times a day, even if he enjoys freedom within the area. The route needs to be varied; introduce the dog to new territories, other animals, people. It is necessary to accustom him to sharp sounds, unusual noises, and smells.
Classes should be conducted systematically and be interesting. Learning is built in development from simple to complex; You should not overtire the puppy; it is advisable to alternate the lesson phase with rest, giving him the opportunity to run or lie in the grass.
The duration of the lesson at the first stage is no more than 60 minutes.
Proper upbringing will provide your pet with a comfortable transition into adulthood, eliminating fearfulness and aggressiveness.
Security qualities
The herding Polish Shepherd has very developed guarding qualities. This dog is on duty around the clock. She sleeps lightly; the slightest rustle makes the representative of the breed wary.
Suspicious of strangers. Without a command, he will touch in one case: a stranger poses a danger to family members or to the dog himself.
If the owners of the house and someone comes to visit, the dog will watch. The guest appeared in the absence of household members, then an extremely unfriendly reception awaits him.
IMPORTANT! The ideal guard. Representatives of the breed feel comfortable in a large enclosure on the territory of a private house.
Puppies
In Russia, the Podgalyan Shepherd Dog is not as popular as in Canada or the USA. There she is used for police work. The demand for puppies is high.
You should buy a baby when he is 2-2.5 months old. The Polish dog has a strong psyche, but a little checking will not hurt.
A puppy can be adopted at the age of no earlier than 2-2.5 months, so that strong immunity can be formed.
The simplest thing is to throw a bunch of keys next to the puppies and observe the reaction. If the baby jumps to the side in fear, this is not a guard. Mentally weak. Stands still and looks at the object without trying to run away - a good dog will grow up. With a loud bark he rushes to the keys, the dog can grow overly aggressive.
Who is better to choose? Bitches are more people-oriented. Their guard qualities are weaker. Males are larger and more aggressive, and will guard conscientiously.
Training and education
The Podgalyansky Shepherd Dog requires discipline from childhood. If the owner spoils the puppy, it will not end well. Raising a male dog must be approached in a more strict manner than raising a female dog.
Golden rules for dog owners:
- consistency in actions and patience;
- everything happens gradually. They move from simple to complex;
- use inhibitory commands less;
- eliminate physical impact on the pet;
- if you want to raise your voice, then bite your tongue;
- remember that a dog is a reflection of its owner. She is not bad and stupid. The owner couldn't teach.
We work with the puppy every day. A few minutes with intervals between workouts. As the dog gets older, the load on it also increases.
Content Features
The Polish Lowland Shepherd is unpretentious and hardy, adapting equally well to life in a city apartment and in the courtyard of a country house. She will be happy working on the farm. Tolerates various weather conditions of the middle climate zone well. In everyday life, the Polish Lowland Shepherd is neat and docile. To prevent her from being prone to wandering and damaging things, you need to provide her with sufficient walking.
Lowland shepherd dogs quickly adapt to various walking modes and the rhythm of life, but it is worth remembering that these are not couch dogs who are ready to lie at the door for days on end waiting for the owner and be content with half-hour walks. These are quite active and energetic animals that require moderate physical activity: long walks, active games and intellectual tasks.
Care
A well-groomed Polish Lowland Shepherd is an eye-catcher, but it takes some effort to keep its appearance attractive. The coat is combed 1-2 times a week, bathed as needed, usually once every 2-3 months. Keep the ears, eyes and length of the claws clean. Weekly teeth brushing is also recommended.
At exhibitions, the Polish Lowland Shepherd is shown in its natural form. Owners who are not on the show often give their dogs short haircuts for the summer.
Maintenance, care and feeding
The Polish Shepherd reaches large sizes. The breed is absolutely not an apartment breed. She will perceive the limited space as her own booth. Constantly being in a confined area puts pressure on the animal. The dog becomes aggressive and irritable. Walking with such a pet in the city is problematic. He may decide that this passerby waving his arms is a source of danger. And immediately begin to act, without waiting for the owner’s instructions.
It is much more difficult to train a male dog than a female dog.
The ideal option for keeping a Podgalyansky dog is a large country house with a spacious enclosure. A representative of the breed should be able to move a lot; the dog is quite energetic.
The dog does not require special care. Its snow-white color is not a reason for frequent bathing. Attention is paid to wool. You need to comb your pet 4-5 times a week. During molting periods - daily.
You should examine your mouth, ears, and eyes every day. Brushing your teeth is done with regular apples. If a dog eats this fruit every day, he will not be at risk of plaque.
Discharge from the eyes is removed with a cotton swab dipped in water. The ears are cleaned with cotton swabs.
The dog's diet consists of meat, cereals, vegetables, dairy products and fruits. The Polish Shepherd is allowed:
- lean meat;
- rice or buckwheat;
- boiled cabbage, carrots, zucchini, some beets, some potatoes;
- low-fat kefir, low-fat cottage cheese;
- unleavened apples for cleaning teeth;
- boiled chicken or quail eggs;
- sugar beef bones occasionally.
The second food option is dry food. Super - premium class or holistic.
IMPORTANT! Caring for a Polish Shepherd is not difficult. You just need to brush your dog regularly.
Care and maintenance
The physical parameters of the suit and the mental characteristics require space and freedom. The mountaineer breed cannot stand life in a confined space. Its representatives cannot be kept in an apartment, they cannot be put on chains.
The best option for placing it is a spacious enclosure in the courtyard of a country house. The door should be kept open so that the dog can move freely. It can only be locked when strangers enter the yard.
Even if kept in an enclosure or a spacious kennel, the shepherd dog must be walked regularly. During the adaptation period, children three to four times a day, adults once or twice a day. For normal walking, you need to spend at least 50-60 minutes in the wild.
Coat care requires special attention. You should not overuse bathing your dog, but you should not neglect brushing. During the molting period, you need to comb your hair daily, at other times every other day. Minimum - once or twice a week.
The puppy is accustomed to hygiene procedures from two to two and a half months.
To cleanse the mouth and teeth, it is good to give your dog apples. Ears are cleaned with cotton swabs, eyes with moistened cotton swabs.
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Feeding
It is good to diversify the diet by changing natural food and dry food. Premium dry food contains all the components necessary for the dog’s life support. Natural nutrition should be balanced in the amount of proteins, fats and carbohydrates.
Preference is given to proteins: meat, eggs, milk and dairy products. Addition: cereal porridge, vegetables, fruits. The volume is taken based on 30 grams of protein per 1 kg of weight, the rest is due to fillers. The meat is given raw, everything else, including offal, is boiled. An adult needs two meals a day; babies are fed four to five times a day.
Breed diseases and life expectancy
People from the Tatra Mountains have strong immunity. Life in the harsh conditions of a mountain climate hardened and strengthened the breed. In the absence of otitis media, allergies, they tend to have problems typical for large breeds.
Most often observed:
- hip dysplasia;
- digestive system disorder.
With age, vision, hearing, dental disease, tumors and hormonal imbalances may deteriorate. Tatra Shepherd Dogs live on average 12-16 years, and with good care they can live up to 16-17 years.
