Gonczy Polski

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Gonczy Polski is also known as the Polish Scenthound, Polish Hunting Dog and Polnischer Laufhund(German) . It is a strong, well built, supple and elegant dog that has been documented in the Old Polish literature as early as 1300's. This dog is used to hunt boars and deers, and occasionally foxes and hares, in the mountainous and forest regions of Poland. Exact ancestors of this breed are unknown although it is believed that the Polish hound was developed when St. Hubert hounds were crossed with local dogs. It was also speculated that German and Austrian breeds were the ancestors of the Polish Hound.

This is a medium size dog that stands between 19.7 to 21.7 inches and weighs between 55-71 lbs. The dog has a moderate and proportionate head that comes with slightly convex skull. The nose matches the coat colour. The medium size eyes are set obliquely and hold expression of kindness. Eyes can be dark or light in colour, matching the coat. Low set, medium length ears are in line with eye brows. They are triangular in shape and hang down the head. Medium length, well muscled and strong neck is slightly sloping. The dog has a rectangular body that comes with a strong back and broad and well muscled loins. Chest is deep with long and oblique ribs while the belly is slightly tucked up. Bushy and medium length tail is carried low, in a sabre-like fashion when the dog is at rest and carried slightly above the topline when the dog is in action. Coat is harsh and close fitting and comes with an undercoat. Hair on head and ears are soft and short. The coat can be black and tan, red or brown and red with or without tan markings.

This dog is NOT recognized by AKC however it is recognized by FCI.

Color

The Gonczy Polski displays a few colours. This includes tan and black, brown and tan and red colours. The tan colour should be distinct from black colour. Tan markings can be present on over the eyes, on muzzle, front of neck, fore chest, lower parts of limbs, behind and inside the thighs and underside of the tail. Small white marks on toes and chest are accepted.

Coat

The coat is moderately long, harsh to touch and close-fitting. It comes with an undercoat that is abundant in winter and less in summer.

Personality

The Gonczy Polski is a stable, gentle, courageous and intelligent dog. It has been used as hunting breed and is known for its keen sense of smell and beautiful resonant voice. A hard working and relentless hunter, the dog is known for its perseverance. When on a trail of a prey, the dog will be least bothered about weather extremes and difficult terrain. Aside from being tenacious hunters, the Gonczy Polski makes an excellent family pet as well. Gentle and affectionate, the dog makes great playmate of children. It gets along with other dogs and other pets equally well. It is loyal and friendly to its master and family, ready for action to protect them if the situation demands it. Though not aggressive, the dog remains suspicious of strangers and will instantly sound an alarm if an stranger approaches near. It makes an excellent hunting auxiliary for hunters while being an affectionate and loyal home companion for the whole family.

Care

Moderate length coat is low maintenance and will need weekly brushing to be clean and healthy. Frequent bathing is not necessary. A rubdown with wet towel will keep the coat shiny.

Training

Intelligent and obedient, the Gonczy Polski is very trainable. As with any dog, the owner should display proper leadership skills to avoid stubbornness. The dog can learn quick with gentle yet firm and consistent training.

Activity

This breed does not have high exercise demands. A long daily walk will keep the dog happy and content as well as fit.