The Polish Lowland Sheepdog, also called the Polish Owczarek Nizinny, is also sometimes shortened to PON. The dogs worked on the lowland plains. Some say that this medium-sized, robust sheepdog evolved from ancient, corded herding dogs from the Hungarian plains, which were bred with other small, long-coated mountain herders, and more recent, shaggy herders, such as theBorder CollieandDutch Schapendoes.
It is also said to haveTibetan TerrierandLhasa Apsoin its blood. As with many breeds, World War II very nearly led to the breed's extinction and was revived by Polish breeders after the war. Popular in Poland and elsewhere, it is generally kept as a household companion, although it remains an excellent herder. It can also work in obedience, tracking, agility and therapy. The Polish Lowland Sheepdog was recognized by the AKC in 2001.