The Chart Polski
The history of the sighthound dates back to 12th century Poland, where hunting with sighthounds and falcons was a popular sport among the nobles.
During late 19th century, many political and economic upheavals in Poland and surrounding countries, spelt the end of the large landowners, thereby making hunting with sighthounds impossible. The breed was nearly wiped out during the First and Second World Wars.
Hunting with sighthounds is no longer allowed in Poland. Other European countries, such as Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Netherlands, Norway and Sweden also have a growing following of enthusiasts for the breed. In the USA the breed has a small, dedicated group of enthusiasts behind it.
Today, one no longer questions the existence of the Polish Sighthound; all the academic discussions on this subject are fortunately closed. The Polish Kennel Club has confirmed the breed in 1981. Eight years later, in June 1989, it was recognized by the F.C.I.
Currently, the majority of the females are taller than 70 cm at the withers, and 80 cm or more for the males is no longer so exceptional. More and more, one can admire the typical, long, powerful but very noble heads. Fortunately, one no longer sees at shows the heads of the old type with a stop too accentuated, a skull with a frontal furrow; a light, fine, too soft ear. The majority of the Chart Polski have a magnificent coat, typical to the breed; although in a significant number of subjects the hair still lacks length. Globally, the breed is becoming more and more homogenous.
Today the heritage is kept alive by many enthusiasts in Poland, where the Chart Polski owners take pride in dressing in authentic period clothing for events such as special shows, and hunting simulations where a mechanized lure is used in lieu of live game.
The Chart Polski has successfully hunted hare, deer, and wolves in his homeland, and the Chart Polski of today is only a few generations from the working/hunting hounds of Poland. During the chase, besides being extremely fast with great endurance, the Chart Polski is also very skillful and persistent -- reacting quickly, confidently, and displaying great courage under fire.
The Chart Polski is a good-tempered dog -- very loyal, devoted, and demonstrative to its family. It should be noted that the breed is also quite protective of its family and territory, and is often suspicious of strangers. This breed requires proper early socialization, firm and fair human leadership, and must never be treated harshly. Like many other sighthounds, the Chart is very intelligent, creative, and can be stubborn.
