Norwegian Buhund Breed Information
Breed Group: Herding
Weight: Male: 31-40; Female: 26-35 lbs
Height: Male: 17-18.5; Female: 16-17.5 inches
Color(s): Wheaton, Black
Overview
A herding Spitz-type breed, the Norwegian Buhund originated in Norway. This general-purpose farm working dog was used as a sheepdog, reindeer herder, for hauling, and hunting. Today the Norwegian Buhund breed is still a farm dog in Norway. However, in other parts of the world they are used for police protection, hearing dogs, for tracking, and as companions.
Character
The Norwegian Buhund is a compact and lightly-built breed. They are of medium-size, agile, and energetic. This breed possesses stamina, strength, and endurance as well as keen senses.
Temperament
The Norwegian Buhund breed is affectionate, loving, friendly, and bond closely to their family. They do not do well if left alone for extended periods of time or if they are isolated. Loneliness and boredom will lead to excessive barking and destructive behavior. The Norwegian Buhund does well with children and dogs they have been raised with but are not recommended for homes with cats or other small household pets. They are protective of their family, home, territory, and make excellent watch dogs.
Care
Regular brushing of the coat with a firm bristle brush is recommended. Special attention should be given during heavy seasonal shedding. Bathing should only be done when necessary. The Norwegian Buhund is relatively healthy with low occurrences of hip dysplasia and eye problems.
Coat
The Norwegian Buhund is a double coat breed. The outer coat is smooth, hard, short, and thick. The under coat is dense, soft, and woolly in texture. The coat on the chest, back of legs, and around the neck is longer in length. This Norwegian Buhund breed is a seasonal heavy shedder.
Training
Considered to be the easiest of the Spitz-type dogs to train, the Norwegian Buhund does well in socialization and obedience training. They are intelligent, quick to learn, and eager to please. Training must be done with firmness, fairness, and consistency.
Activity
Norwegian Buhund's are not recommended for apartment living. They require an inordinate amount of physical exercise and mental stimulation. They do best with a large securely fenced yard or a rural setting with a job to do. They thrive on family play sessions. The Norwegian Buhund excels in agility trials, obedience, police work, herding, and tracking.