Polish Greyhound

Also called Chart Polski, Polnischer Windhund

Recognised breedFCI group 10Short profile

From Poland.1 2

At a glance the quick version

Weight27 to 32 kg2

Height, male70 to 80 cm1

Height, female68 to 75 cm1

Sizelarge

Wikipedia gives an average of about 60-70 lb (27-32 kg) for the breed; the FCI standard gives no weight.

confident and brave

fast and untiring

affectionate with its family

1 2

Coat and looks how to spot one

springy, fairly harsh coat of varied length

A big, strong, muscular sighthound, sturdier than most of its short-coated relatives. The coat is neither wiry nor silky and grows a little longer on the thighs and underside of the tail, and it thickens in cold seasons.1 2

Coloursall colours allowedbeigeblacktanblue1 2

Personality what they are like

Self-assured, brave and calm, with quick reactions. It is affectionate with its own people but reserved and watchful with strangers.1 2

Daily activity how busy a day looks

High. A powerful running dog that needs regular chances to gallop in a safe, fenced space, plus daily walks.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The coat needs only regular brushing, a little more when it thickens or sheds seasonally.2

The story where it all began

Sighthounds of this type have been shown in Polish art and hunting writing since around the 13th century, and they were popular with the nobility. The breed is thought to share roots with Asian sighthounds of the Saluki kind. It was rebuilt from the 1970s and received full FCI recognition in 2001.1 2

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Despite its English name, it is not a close relative of the English Greyhound.2
2
It was used to hunt hare, fox, roe deer, bustard and even wolves.1
3
It is noticeably stronger and less refined than other short-haired sighthounds, built for demanding Polish conditions.1
4
Its look has stayed consistent across centuries of Polish artwork.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name 'Chart Polski' translates directly to 'Polish Greyhound' in English. 'Chart' is the Polish word for a sighthound or greyhound, and 'Polski' means Polish.3

Name ideas for your new friend

BurekZefirKometaSokółWichuraPiorunBłyskawicaGromLunaStellaIskraTornado

A day in the life told by a Polish Greyhound

I wake up with the sun, stretching my long legs on the cool floor. My human laughs and calls me a noodle. After a quick breakfast, we head to the big fenced field. I love that moment when I sprint, wind in my ears, feeling like a king. Then we walk slowly through the park, and I greet my dog friends with a wag. Back home, I curl up on my soft bed, watching the world from the window. In the evening, we play a gentle game of fetch, and I show off my speed. As the stars come out, I rest my head on my human's lap, content and loved.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI: Standard No. 333, Group 10 Sighthounds, Section 3 Short-haired sighthounds; provisional recognition 1989, full recognition 2001.2
United Kennel Club: Recognised breed.2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Polish Greyhound. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Polish Greyhound, and at what times?

Feed your Polish Greyhound at least two meals a day, as recommended for adult dogs. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. For exact times, follow a consistent schedule that works for you and your dog.4

What should a Polish Greyhound eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for its age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and others listed by the ASPCA. Always consult your vet for specific dietary needs.5

How often should I bathe a Polish Greyhound?

Bathe your Polish Greyhound about every two months, or at least every three months as general guidance. More frequent baths may be needed if it gets very dirty. Use a gentle dog shampoo.6 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Polish Greyhound need brushing?

Brush your Polish Greyhound weekly to keep its coat healthy and reduce shedding. Increase brushing during seasonal coat changes. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests weekly brushing.2 6 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Polish Greyhound's nails, and how often?

Trim your Polish Greyhound's nails about once a month, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Use a dog nail trimmer and cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Polish Greyhound need?

Your Polish Greyhound needs daily walks and regular opportunities to run freely in a safe, fenced area. This breed has high energy and loves to gallop. Furry Diary's plan includes daily exercise.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Polish Greyhound's teeth and ears?

Brush your Polish Greyhound's teeth at least two to three times a week, ideally daily, using dog toothpaste. Check its ears every two weeks for dirt or odor, and clean gently with a vet-recommended solution. Never insert anything into the ear canal.6 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Polish Greyhound live?

The lifespan of a Polish Greyhound can vary, so ask your vet or a reputable breeder for typical expectations. Proper care and regular vet checkups help ensure a long, healthy life.

Is a Polish Greyhound good with children and other pets?

Polish Greyhounds are affectionate with their family and can be good with children if properly socialized. Their reaction to other pets may vary; early socialization is important. For specific advice, consult a good breeder or your vet.1 2

Can a Polish Greyhound be left alone?

Polish Greyhounds are loyal and may become anxious if left alone for long periods. It's best to gradually accustom them to alone time. For specific guidance, ask your vet or a breeder.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.