GROUP 5 - WORKING DOGS

History

The Tatra Shepherd Dog has lived in the Polish mountains for thousands of years, but no exact date for the start of the breed was ever recorded. There is a similar mystery around what breeds were mixed to form the Polish Tatra Sheepdog. While no one is certain, many dog breeders say that the Polish Tatra Sheepdog came from the Mastiff breed. (1)

The breed was very popular among mountain workers for several centuries, and up to today. It was so popular because, as its name implies, it was a fantastic sheepdog. This success at herding sheep was mainly due to their high intelligence. When predators were around the sheep, the Polish Tatra Sheepdog would gather up the sheep and stand by them instead of trying to attack the predator, which would leave the sheep open for other attacks. This demonstrates their intelligence. Their white coat also made them easily distinguishable from a bear or wolves, which was very helpful for workers. Also, owners could shave the dogs and use their coat to produce wool. Herding sheep was not the only job the breed could perform. They were often used as personal guards and frequently guarded factories and other private property. (2)

After the World Wars the breed was on the brink of extinction. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale, (FCI), would not allow this to happen, though, and by the 1960s they started breeding the sheepdog more and more. (3)

Centuries ago, as their reputation as excellent sheepdogs spread, the breed spread slowly across Europe, but in 1980, an American Foreign Service Officer enjoyed the breed so much that he had three of them shipped to America, and by 1981 the breed also spread to Canada. (1)

Appearance

The Tatra Shepherd Dog is an imposing, strong and balanced dog. It must be strong and determined both for fighting predators and guarding. Its abundant,dense and insulating coat gives excellent protection against bad weather. The general impression of the Tatra Shepherd Dog suggests strength, stamina, and a certain aloofness.

Despite its mountainous origins, the breed thrives in all areas and conditions. Sex dimorphism is clearly visible, females being distinctly smaller and less powerful than males.

IMPORTANT PROPORTIONS: Rectangular in shape, the length of the body of males being a little shorter than that of bitches.

Compact and harmoniously built. He is a big dog, but not so excessive as to appear heavy and cumbersome.

On head, muzzle, front part of forelegs and on the hindlegs from the hock downward, the hair is short and dense. The neck and the body are covered with long, thick, straight or slightly wavy hair, hard to the touch. Undercoat profuse. On the neck a rich ruff; the thighs are covered with profuse, longhair; on the tail hair also profuse, forming a flag.

Correct coat texture is of utmost importance. The outer coat is rather harsh, glossy and somewhat oily, providing good protection against wet and dirt. It does not need any elaborate grooming, apart from brushing and occasional combing. (4)

Sizes:

Height at withers;
Males:             65-70 cms
Bitches:           60-65 cms (4)

Temperament

The Tatra Shepherd Dog is extremely intelligent, alert and makes an excellent watch dog. Very even-tempered, quiet and brave, friendly to domestic animals and children and somewhat aloof and distrustful of strangers. (4)

A lot of today's Polish Tatra Sheepdog's behaviors and qualities can be traced back to its use of guarding. They are territorial, loyal and protective of their owners, and are very good watchdogs for this reason. (2)

Suitability

After thousands of years of running around sheep, the Polish Tatra Sheepdog has a good amount of energy and needs a decently large fenced yard to run around in. It is not a good apartment dog because of its size and amount of energy. They are not very active inside, but are very active outside. This is why constant walks are recommended. During late spring and early winter, the Polish Tatra Sheepdog sheds its undercoat profusely, but for the rest of the year it stays clean, due to its self-cleansing coat. Also, this breed does not drool. The Polish Tatra Sheepdog is very intelligent, independent and needs a strong hand to train. (2)

Health

The Polish Tatra Sheepdog is generally a very healthy dog with very few health risks. The average life expectancy for this breed is usually 10–12 years old. As with most large breed dogs, the Polish Tatra Sheepdog can occasionally get hip dysplasia. (2)

In Conclusion

Now you know a little about the Tatra Shepherd Dog you may have think that this is the dog for you. Before you make a decision, please make contact with the breed club or your State controlling body for purebred dogs. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog shows where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the Tatra Shepherd Dog and its needs and whether this breed would suit your lifestyle.

References

1. "Polish Tatra Sheepdog," puppydogweb.com, Internet Brands Pets, January 14, 2010. puppydogweb
2. Wikipedia.org
3. "Polish Tatra Sheepdogs,"gnuhampshirefarm.com," GNU Hampshire Farm. "Archived copy". Archived from the original on 2013-03-22. Retrieved 2012-03-23.
4. DOGSAUSTRALIA.org.au
   
   Image: World Dog Show 2018