Polish Greyhound
Other names: Polish Sighthound, Chart Polski
While she may look just like a normal greyhound, the Polish Greyhound is a distinct breed and character in her own right. Developed and celebrated over hundreds of years as a hunter of birds and pet of the Polish nobility, this svelte and graceful creature comes with somewhat more bite than those greyhounds more familiar to British dog-lovers. She’s more protective and territorial, and not keen on the society of other dogs. Still, she’s loyal to her humans, kind to children, and available in a host of colours to compliment your sofa suite, so she should certainly be a candidate for those in the market for a family sighthound.
Key facts about the Polish Greyhound
Origins and history
The Polish Greyhound seems to have developed from Saluki-type Asiatic sighthounds and traces her history back to at least the 13th century, where she is described (but not yet named) in paintings and writings. The trials of the nineteenth and twentieth century took their toll on the breed, but the concerted efforts’ of one male (Elbrus) with two females (Taiga and Struska) in the latter half of the twentieth century delivered a comeback for the Polish Greyhound.
FCI breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 10 - Sighthounds
Section
Section 3 : Short-haired Sighthounds
Physical characteristics of the Polish Greyhound
Adult size
Female : Between 27 and 30 in
Male : Between 28 and 31 in
Weight
Female : Between 77 and 99 lb
Male : Between 77 and 99 lb
Coat colour
Any.
Type of coat
Springy and harsh.
Eye colour
Amber to dark brown.
Description
A little taller and stronger than many a sight hound, the Polish Greyhound is an altogether more imposing presence than her cousin breeds. Her jaw, stretching out under a muzzle that’s as long as the rest of her head, is powerful. Her eyes are narrow, keen, and alert. Her long neck carries her head high, and leads back to a deep chest and dramatically tucked belly. Her legs are long, oh so long, and muscular, yet lean, as befits this altogether poised and dignified hunter.
Good to know
It can take quite a while to obtain a Polish Greyhound pup outside of her native land.