Norwegian Buhund Dog Breed History, Health Issues, Description, Living Conditions and Grooming

Description: The Norwegian Buhund is a Spitz type dog, which is of medium size. The muzzle is the same length as the skull. The eyes have black rims, that are oval in shape and dark in colour, their eyes appear sad, but intelligence. They have medium-sized ears that are erect, and mobile. Their legs are straight, with good pads on their feet, these are small and webbed. The tail is over the back and tightly curled this breed has a double coat. This is smooth to the touch while being harsh, with the undercoat is soft and woolly. The colour ranges this dog comes in are; biscuit, from light yellowish red, black, wheaten and wolf-sable. Males are 17 to 18 inches in height where as the bitches are 16 to 17 in height. Males are 31 to 40 pounds in weight whereas the bitches are 26 to 26 inches to 35 lbs in weight.

History: The Norwegian Buhund breed has been discovered in a Viking grave, dating from about the year 900. The Vikings were believed to use this breed, to protect farm animals, herding cattle, and sheep. There is evidence these dogs travelled widely with the Vikings on land and sea. In ancient times, they hunted bears and wolves. This breed can score well in the obedience, and do well in agility trials. This dog is still a working dog guarding homes and families and is still a livestock guard. This is considered to be one of the easiest Spitz breeds to train as it is keen and willing to please. This dog has good learning aptitude. The Norwegian Buhund was first recognized by the AKC in 2009.

Temperament: Here we see a cheerful, active, with untiring vigilance, attentive, and intelligent dog. This breed needs consistent firm leadership, as they can be headstrong, but given the right leadership, they are loving and wish to cuddle up to their owners. The Norwegian Buhund requires physical and mental stimulation, as they are quick to learn, and have lots of energy. Here we see a dog that is a natural guard dog. This breed is good with children. With good obedience training they are a joy to own. This is an active dog and will require lots of exercise. Providing the dog sees you as the pack leader, and you are the alpha, they make a good house pet. Problems will arise if the balance of leadership is not maintained, through good leadership from you.

Health issues: The Norwegian Buhund are prone to an inherited eye issues and hip dysplasia. Grooming: The Norwegian Buhund breed has a short to medium length, easy cared for coat, that does not tangle, or mat, when shedding. Brushing weekly will be fine, but extra brushing is required, when the dog is shedding, this is seasonal and is fairly heavy.

Living conditions: This breed is better in a home with at least a small well fenced garden, as the Norwegian Buhund is very active and will require plenty of exercise. This dog can live in larger apartments, allowing for the fact that the dog needs to roam, a small apartment will not work.