The Polish Lowland Sheepdog-Poodle mix, also known as a Poloodle, is a relatively new Doodle breed.
Honestly, I didn’t even know Polish Lowland Sheepdogs were a dog breed… But, it turns out they are adorable and a perfect partner for the Poodle.
In this post, I am going to cover everything you want to know about the rare Poloodle. Be the first to learn about this designer breed!
What is a Pooloodle?
The Poloodle is a mix between the Polish Lowland Sheepdog and Poodle. It is a rare Doodle breed that is medium-sized and athletic.
The unique mix can also be referred to as a PONdoodle.
The Poloodle has a sturdy build, weighing 30 to 65 pounds and standing 15 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder. The breed has a long, curly, and hypoallergenic coat.
They can come in various colors, including black, white, gray, brown, beige, red, and a few others.
The temperament of a Polish Lowland Sheepdog-Poodle mix is typically friendly, intelligent, and loyal.
They have the potential for being great family pets and should do very well with children and other pets. They come from two active breeds and will require daily exercise and mental stimulation.
History and Origin
The Poloodle doesn’t have much of a history. This is common in Doodle breeds, especially the rare ones.
The nice part is that the Poloodle’s parents have breed histories stretching back a long time. Let’s take a look!
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Before researching this article, this is the first I have heard of a Polish Lowland Sheepdog. After reading up on the breed, I have concluded that they are adorable and have an interesting history!
The Polish Lowland Sheepdog, also known as PON, is a breed that originated in the region that eventually became Poland.
PON comes from the Polish name for the breed: Polski Owczarek Nizinny.
The breed’s history dates back to the 1300s when Asian traders entered Eastern Europe with their dogs.
The PON breed is believed to have been created by breeding Asian dogs with local dogs, including the Puli, and possibly a herding dog for the Huns.
During World War II, the breed was almost driven to extinction. However, the PON was restored mainly through the work of Dr. Danuta Hryniewicz and her dog, Smok (“Dragon”), who sired the first ten litters of PONs in the 1950s.
Today, the breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and is a popular choice for families and dog enthusiasts.
Poodle
The Poodle is a breed that originated in Germany. The breed was initially used for hunting waterfowl and retrieving game.
The Poodle comes in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. The breed is known for its curly, hypoallergenic coat, intelligence, and trainability.
The Poodle became popular among European nobility, especially the French, in the 18th century and was eventually brought to America.
Today, the breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and is a popular choice for families and dog enthusiasts.
Height
The Pooloodle typically measures between 16 and 22 inches tall at the shoulder.
Weight
Males typically weigh between 50 and 70 pounds, while females weigh between 30 and 50 pounds.
However, it’s important to note that individual dogs may vary in size and weight depending on their genetics and lifestyle factors.
Traits and Characteristics
Below is a summary of the different traits and characteristics of the Poloodle. The different scores are based on averages between the two parent breeds.
Temperament and Personality
The Polish Lowland Sheepdog-Poodle mix, or Poloodle, is a friendly and affectionate dog that loves to be around people.
They are loyal and protective of their families and make excellent watchdogs.
They are also known for their intelligence and trainability, making them easy to train for obedience and agility competitions.
Like their parent breeds, Poloodles are energetic dogs that require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy.
They love to play and run around and are great companions for active families who enjoy outdoor activities. However, they can also be content with a good cuddle on the couch and make great lap dogs.
Poloodles make sure they develop good manners and get along well with others. They can be wary of strangers and may bark to alert their owners of any perceived threats, but they are not typically aggressive.
The Polish Lowland Sheepdog Poodle mix is a loving and loyal companion that makes a great addition to any family.
At this point, it’s safe to say that I want to bring home a Poloodle!
Health Issues
However, like all breeds, there are some health concerns that potential owners should be aware of. Here are some of the most common health issues:
- Hip Dysplasia: This is a genetic condition that affects the hip joint. It occurs when the ball and socket joint of the hip do not fit together properly, causing pain and discomfort. Choosing a reputable breeder who tests their dogs for hip dysplasia before breeding is important.
- Epilepsy: Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that can cause seizures. While it is not common in Poloodles, it can occur.
- Eye Problems: The Poodle and the Polish Lowland Sheepdog are prone to eye problems such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. Regular eye exams can help detect and treat these issues early.
- Ear Infections: Poloodles will likely have big, floppy ears. This can make them more prone to ear infections. It is essential to keep their ears clean and dry to prevent infections.
While these health concerns may sound alarming, it must be noted that many can be prevented or managed with proper care and attention.
Regular veterinary check-ups, a healthy diet, and exercise can all help keep your Poloodle healthy and happy for years to come.
How long does a Poloodle live?
The Polish Lowland Sheepdog-Poodle Mix has an expected lifespan of 11-16 years.
However, this can vary depending on several factors, including genetics, diet, exercise, and overall health.
To ensure a long and healthy life for your dog, providing them with a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary care is important.
Coat and Grooming
The Polish Lowland Sheepdog Poodle mix has a unique coat that requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and looking good. The coat can be curly or wavy and will likely be long.
Regular grooming is essential to avoid matting and tangling of the hair. Brushing the coat at least once a week with a slicker brush or a comb can help remove loose hair and prevent tangles.
A professional grooming session every six to eight weeks can also help keep the coat in good condition. I take my Doodle dog, Murphy, to the groomer every 8 weeks. Okay, I at least try to…
The Pooloodle may also require occasional baths to keep its coat clean and smelling fresh. A mild dog shampoo and conditioner are important to avoid drying out the skin or causing irritation.
In addition to regular brushing and bathing, the Pooloodle nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent overgrowth, splitting, and cracking.
The teeth should also be brushed regularly to avoid dental problems and bad breath. It can be tough to brush dog’s teeth – I know that I can be better at this myself. Nevertheless, it is important!
Training
Polish Lowland Sheepdog-Poodle mixes are intelligent and active dogs that require regular exercise and training. Here are some tips to help you train and exercise your pooch:
- Start training early. The earlier you start training your puppy, the easier it will be to teach them good habits and behaviors. Begin with basic obedience commands.
- Use positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement is the best way to train your dog. Reward good behavior with treats, praise, and affection. Avoid using punishment or negative reinforcement.
- Be consistent. Consistency is vital when it comes to training your dog. Use the same commands and rewards every time you train them.
- Make training fun. Training should be a fun experience for you and your dog. Use toys, games, and treats to make training sessions more exciting and engaging.
How much exercise does a Polish Lowland Sheepdog-Poodle Mix need?
The Polish Lowland Sheepdog-Poodle Mix is an active and energetic breed that needs regular exercise to stay healthy and happy.
They require at least 30-60 minutes of daily exercise, including walks, runs, and playtime in a fenced yard or dog park. Daily exercise is essential for their physical and mental well-being.
Here are some exercise tips to keep your Poloodle in tip-top shape:
- Take your dog for daily walks: Daily walks are essential for your dog’s physical and mental health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise per day.
- Provide plenty of toys: Toys like balls, frisbees, and chew toys can help keep your dog active and engaged.
- Consider agility training: Agility training is a great way to challenge your dog’s physical and mental abilities. Look for local agility classes or set up your agility course in your backyard.
- Consider swimming, hiking, or running.
Diet and Nutrition
The Polish Lowland Sheepdog Poodle mix is a medium-sized dog that requires a balanced and nutritious diet to maintain health and well-being.
Feeding your dog high-quality food is essential to ensure it gets all the necessary nutrients to grow and thrive.
When choosing a dog food for your Polish Lowland Sheepdog Poodle mix, it’s important to look for a product that contains high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, beef, or fish. The food should also contain carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals to support your dog’s overall health.
When feeding your Poloodle, measure the appropriate amount of food based on age, weight, and activity level. Overfeeding your dog can lead to obesity and other health problems.
Finally, always ensure your dog has access to fresh, clean water. Proper hydration is essential to maintain your dog’s health and prevent dehydration.
Interested