Through The Eyes of a Judge
by Carol Anne Kriesel
This month's guest columnist is Carol Anne Kriesel, Phoenix, AZ. Carol Anne judged the Puppy Sweepstakes at the 2002 National Specialty in Arlington Height, IL.
As an admirer and student of the Polish Lowland Sheepdog, I've been asked for my observations on the breed. I begin with commenting on a potential grooming problem I have seen twice on 2 different, nationally televised dog shows--the PONs were presented with coat parted from head to hip ala bearded collie style. This is NOT the way any PON standard states the animal should be shown. The PON is a "natural" dog--the coat isdesigned for a purpose--to protect the dog while out in the weather with the flock or herd. Back blowing, back combing, hair spray, conditioner--these can and have been overdone on this breed. I, as a judge, want to feel and find correct texture in both outer and undercoats and will get into the groomed coats to do so. Prior to moving, I have seen handlers push the hair on the dogs' head to one side to get its bearings and then begin to move without being "blind" eliminating the need for a part for that purpose.
I have noticed two "styles" of Polish Lowland Sheepdogs being exhibited--the heavier boned and muscled, more substantial "import" style and the overall lighter dog. The latter style has a tendency to be narrow in front, more "beardie" looking, and is usually gaited too fast. I prefer a herding dog to move like it could cover ground at a steady gait for long periods of time and never miss a beat or break down. This breed was not built for racing and should not be presented at an improper speed--the dog will look much better for it. Correct movement is based on correct structure. The PON needs good reach in front and a driving rear to be efficient. I have see dogs too wide in front and those lacking power in the rear assembly. The coat doesn't hide incorrect movement. Cowhocks are not the norm but are being presented in the ring. If built correctly, the Polish Lowland converges to a centerline with increased speed but should not single track.
Good temperament is essential in this breed and something breeders and owners are constantly working to improve. The breed needs mental stimulation and socialization as soon as possible. Judges, no matter what organization they work for, have become highly aware of bite potential and, being the "new breed on the block" and having a reputation for being "aloof and suspicious of strangers" precede it, approach the PON with that potential in mind. I am not an advocate for forcing a dog or puppy into a situation that puts undue stress on the animal and I feel this should be the prime issue on deciding which Polish Lowland Sheepdog goes into the ring. The best advertisement for this breed is an amenably temperamented PON shown au natural at a comfortable speed and smiling!!