Overview
The Chart Polski, or Polish Greyhound, is a large sighthound bred on the Polish plains to hunt hare, fox, deer and even wolf. It is heavier and more robust than an English Greyhound, with a longer coat for winter and a bolder character. Historically it also guarded the estate, and that watchfulness persists.
This is not a sofa greyhound. Charts are confident, self-possessed and less automatically friendly with strange dogs than most sighthounds. With their own people they are calm, loyal and quiet. With a new walker they will be civil but reserved for a while.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour to ninety minutes a day. Like all sighthounds they need to gallop: a fenced field a few times a week is worth more than endless lead mileage. Between sprints they are content to walk steadily.
They mature slowly and should not be over-run as youngsters. Ask the owner about age and growth before letting a young dog race flat out.
On the walk
- Recall: Good at home, questionable with prey in sight. Hare, deer and cats all count. Use a long line in open country unless the owner has proven otherwise.
- Other dogs: The main point of care with this breed. Charts can be sharp with strange dogs, especially same-sex. Keep greetings on lead, brief and well judged.
- Pulling: Not usually a puller, but a thirty kilo dog that lunges is a handful. Wide sighthound collar or harness, firm grip.
- Strangers: Reserved. Not aggressive, but it will not seek out attention. Let passers-by admire from a distance.
Tips for professional walkers
- Avoid off-lead dog parks. This breed does better in quiet spaces with chosen company.
- Find somewhere enclosed to let it run and make that the highlight of the week.
- Put a coat on in freezing rain; the coat is thicker than a Greyhound's but still not weatherproof.
- Keep your handling calm and consistent. Charts respect quiet confidence.
What to ask the owner
- How does the dog react to unfamiliar dogs approaching, and are there breeds or sexes it dislikes?
- Where has it been let off lead safely, and what does it chase?
- Is there a muzzle it is used to, and when do they want it worn?