Norwegian Buhund Breed Profile - Choosing a Norwegian Buhund

Dogs

The Norwegian Buhund... a breed that is probably not part of the everyday dog lover's knowledge of canine varieties. This spitz-type breed is a member of the AKC's Herding class since January of 2007.

History and Origin

The Norwegian Buhunds have been found in Norwegian Viking graves from 900 A.D. The Vikings were buried with their most valued possessions, and they believed the Buhunds would guard and protect them in the afterlife. The Buhunds have since appeared in other countries, but have not become as popular there as they are in Norway.

These dogs are used for guarding farms and homes and for herding. In their early days they also hunted bears and wolves. Today Buhunds can be found working with the disabled, doing some police work, and performing in agility and obedience.

Appearance and Size

The Buhunds can be wheaten, with or without a black mask, or black. The coat is thick and hard, but lies smoothly. Their undercoat is thick and soft. They stand about 17-18 inches in height and weigh 26-40 pounds. Their ears are erect and set high. This strong dog has a short, curly tail which is carried over the back.

Personality

The Norwegian Buhund is a natural guard of his family and home. He is often high energy, loves to be the center of attention, and gives lots of affection in return. This dog is also extremely intelligent and is thought to be the easiest of the Spitz breeds to train.

Home and Family Relations

Gentle and caring toward children, the Buhund will also protect his loved ones from danger. His high energy and intelligence demands frequent attention, exercise, and playtime. As a natural herder, he may herd children or other pets for fun! His size makes him an ideal house pet.

Grooming

Although the Norwegian Buhund's coat does not typically mat easily, he should be bathed and brushed regularly, especially if he spends a lot of time outdoors.

Training

Training is necessary to establish desirable behavior and help satisfy the Buhund's need to be mentally stimulated. A high intelligence level and a strong desire to please make training easy.

Common Diseases and Disorders

Cataracts cause a loss of the normal transparency of the lens of the eye. You may see a cloudy, white color in the pupil, which is normally black. The problem may be in one or both eyes and may cause blindness.

Progressive Retinal Degeneration is a disease that causes nerve cells at the back of the eye to degenerate. The condition usually begins in older pets and can lead to blindness.

Hip Dysplasia is a malformation of the hip joint that results in pain, lameness and arthritis.

The Norwegian Buhund's average life span is 12-15 years.



We realize that each dog is unique and may display other characteristics. This profile provides generally accepted breed information only.