The Polish Greyhound (Chart Polski) most likely originated from the Asian Greyhound Saluki. The existence of these dogs was registered back in the 13th century in Poland and documented in hunting writings and drawings. In the 19th century, this breed was mentioned in historical literature, accompanied by illustrations. Moreover, the great Polish poet Adam Mickiewisz described this breed in his famous epic "Pan Tadeush". This dog is depicted in paintings of the 19th century, proving that it has not changed since then. It was originally used for hunting rabbits, foxes and even wolves. It can withstand the severe weather conditions in Poland and is known for its quick response and excellent flair for the game.
World War II, and the prohibition of hunting with a greyhound in 1946, led to the almost complete disappearance of this breed. In the 20s of the last century began the reestablishment of the Polish Greyhound, and in 1989 the International Dog Federation accepted the official standard.
Nowadays, these wonderful dogs are pets participating in racing championships. Puppies for sale can be found in the US, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Holland, Denmark, Scandinavia, Greece, Switzerland, Russia and other countries.
The Polish Greyhound is a large dog with a robust construction and well-muscled. Its whole appearance conveys sophistication and elegance. The dog's head is small and elongated, with clear contours. The skull is flat and the nose is black or very dark depending on the base coat color.
The dog's eyes are large, almond-shaped and dark. The ears are medium and narrow. The neck is long and muscular, the back is straight. The limbs are long, muscular, the paws are round with tightly fingers. The tail of the dog is long, in the shape of a sword, slightly bent upwards at the base which is thicker and thinner towards the end. The coat of the Polish Greyhound is sharp, smooth and close-fitting to the body. It is longer on top of the tail, hind legs and neck. Its color can be white, black or brown.
Females are high between 68 and 75 cm, and males - from 70 to 80 cm. The average weight is around 40 kg.
Character and behavior
The Polish Greyhound is durable, balanced, friendly and sociable dog. To strangers it is initially suspicious. It is obedient, brave, loyal, but during hunting is very independent, smart and bold. In all situations, these dogs do not lose composure and belief in their own qualities.
Training and education
The strong character of the Polish Greyhound requires solid training, patience and respect for the dog. It must understand the family hierarchy, where its place is, what the prohibitions are and who the leader of the pack is.
Grooming and care
A serious maintenance and grooming of the coat is required in the seasons when the hair falls more heavily.
This breed needs serious exercise. The dog prefers to run in large spaces every day, therefore, it is best to raise it in a big yard or a village, but if you watch it at home, you will need to increase the walks and games.
The Polish Greyhound has good health and doesn’t suffer from specific pathologies. There are some cases of cardiomyopathy, and of diseases of the eye, which can lead to blindness.
The average lifespan of this breed is usually around 14 years.
Children and other pets
It gets along very well with all family members and is strongly attached to children. With adequate socialization, the breed could coexist well with dogs and cats in the house, but it is possible to take other cats and small animals as a prey.
For the first time this breed was mentioned in 1823 in the scientific journal "Sylwan".
The greatest merit for the recovery of the breed since World War II was the Polish canine specialist Stanislaw Czerniakowski. Check Polish Greyhound puppies for sale