Longevity
Life expectancy
With good breeding conditions, an appropriate diet and well-managed exercise, the Polish Greyhound generally lives between 12 and 14 years, which constitutes an appreciable longevity for a large-sized dog.
Build
A robust breed?
Its build is solid and its overall hardiness is good, which makes it a dog capable of withstanding regular activity. This robustness does not exempt it from rigorous veterinary follow-up, especially during growth and in adulthood to prevent locomotor and digestive disorders.
Watch points
What to watch for
Health vigilance relies mainly on prevention, observation of movement, maintaining a stable weight and managing meals around exercise. In this large deep-chested sighthound, any digestive or locomotor discomfort must be taken seriously quickly.
Hip dysplasia : A joint malformation that can impair locomotion and promote osteoarthritis in large dogs.
Elbow dysplasia : A joint development disorder that can cause pain, lameness and premature wear.
Glaucoma : A serious eye condition linked to an increase in intraocular pressure, requiring prompt care.
Gastric torsion : A life-threatening emergency promoted by large size and a deep chest, hence the benefit of splitting meals and avoiding exertion around feeding.
Cardiomyopathy : A condition affecting the heart muscle to be monitored depending on bloodlines and clinical signs.
Hypothyroidism : A hormonal disorder that may manifest as fatigue, weight gain and coat changes.
Climate
Cold and heat tolerance
The Polish Greyhound tolerates cold moderately and copes less well with high heat. In summer, exertion should be shifted to cooler hours with constant access to water, while in winter a dog that is not very active or exposed to wind for a long time may need additional protection depending on the conditions.
Weight
Tendency to gain weight
This dog must remain lean and muscular rather than heavy. Excess weight puts strain on its joints, its movement and its endurance, hence the importance of adjusting rations to its actual activity and regularly monitoring its silhouette.
Daily life
Good habits to keep it healthy
- Have growth and weight monitored by the veterinarian.
- Consult promptly in case of lameness, a painful eye, or a swollen abdomen.
- Maintain regular activity without violent exertion after meals.
Vaccination
Polish Greyhound vaccines: vaccination schedule
Which vaccines for a Polish Greyhound? Like all cats, the Polish Greyhound receives essential vaccines from 8 weeks old: Typhus (panleukopenia) and Coryza. The kitten primary vaccination for Polish Greyhound is given in several injections 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year, even if it lives in an apartment. Depending on its lifestyle (outdoor access, multi-cat household, shows, travel), your veterinarian may complete the protocol with vaccines against Feline leukemia (FeLV), Rabies and Chlamydiosis.
| Vaccine | Primary series | First booster | Then | Who for? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Typhus (panleukopenia)Core Feline panleukopenia (cat parvovirus) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
CoryzaCore Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
Feline leukemia (FeLV)Lifestyle-based Feline leukemia virus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Outdoor cats, cats living in a group or in a cattery |
RabiesLifestyle-based Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, cat shows and most boarding kennels |
ChlamydiosisLifestyle-based Chlamydia felis (contagious conjunctivitis) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Cats living in groups, catteries, show cats |
Adult Polish Greyhound vaccine boosters are annual for cat flu and leukemia if it goes outdoors; for panleukopenia, a booster every three years is often sufficient after the first booster. Your veterinarian will adjust the schedule to your cat’s lifestyle.
Which boosters for your Polish Greyhound?
Enter your companion’s age: we list the vaccines to do now and the next boosters.
Adopting well
Adopting a healthy Polish Greyhound
Screening of hips and elbows in breeding dogs is relevant, with particular attention paid to the eyes and the heart depending on the lines. Regular clinical examination also makes it possible to detect early abnormal digestive or locomotor signs.
This information is provided for guidance only and does not replace a veterinarian’s advice. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, consult a professional.
