History of the Norwegian Buhund
The Norwegian Buhund is considered one of the oldest Scandinavian dog breeds, with a history that dates back over a thousand years. Buhunds are members of the spitz family of dogs, which is known pointed ears, curled tails, and double coats.
The primary purpose of the Buhund throughout its history has been herding and working livestock, particularly sheep. These dogs are known for their herding and guarding abilities, which have helped Norwegian farmers and shepherds manage their flocks.
Norwegian Buhunds are believed to have been the companions of Vikings who were widely known for their explorations and raids. The dogs would have been valuable assets to the Vikings in herding and guarding their livestock during their travels. Over the centuries, different regional varieties of Buhunds developed in Norway. These variations were named after the regions from which they originated, such as the Nordlands Buhund and the Vestland Buhund.
The Buhund was officially recognized as a breed in Norway in the early 20th century. The first Breed Standard was established in 1926. The breed gained international acceptance in the mid-20th century and was recognized by the Royal Kennel Club in the United Kingdom in 1996. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the breed in 2009.
Today, the Norwegian Buhund is cherished as both a working dog and a devoted family companion. These intelligent and energetic dogs are known for their loyalty and versatility, making them excellent candidates for various dog sports and outdoor activities.
General Appearance
Height & Weight
Mature male Norwegian Buhunds typically stand between 17 and 18.5 inches at the shoulder, while females usually measure from 16 to 17.5 inches.
Males typically weigh between 31 and 40 pounds, while females usually weigh from 26 to 35 pounds.
Proportion & Substance
The Norwegian Buhund is a breed of dog that is known for its physical agility, medium size, and remarkable endurance. The breed has a square profile, with the length from the prosternum to the rear projection of the upper thigh being equal to the height at the withers. The amount of substance bone are proportional to the overall dog.
Coat Texture, Colors & Markings
Texture: The coat is an important aspect of the Norwegian Buhund, serving to protect the dog on remote farms in its native Norway. On the head and fronts of the legs, the coat is comparatively short. It is longer on the neck, chest, back of the thighs, and tail. The breed’s double coat consists of an outer coat that is thick and hard, but smooth lying, and an undercoat that’s soft and dense.
Norwegian Buhund Colors
|
Standard Color |
| Wheaten |
ee |
| Black |
ee |
A Note About Color: Two colors are acceptable in the Norwegian Buhund (four per The Royal Kennel Club), with as little white hair as possible. Colors include various shades of wheaten, which may or may not display black tips and/or a black mask, and solid-colored black with minimal bronzing. White is permissible only as a narrow blaze on the face, a narrow ring around the neck, and a small patch on the chest, feet, and tip of the tail.
Norwegian Buhund Markings
|
Standard Marking |
| Black Mask |
ee |
| White Markings |
ee |
Head
- Skull: The skull of the Norwegian Buhund is wedge-shaped, moderately wide, and parallel with the bridge of the nose. It should not be too broad or too narrow.
- Expression: The breed’s expression combines alertness, intelligence, friendliness, confidence, curiosity, playfulness, and loyalty. This breed’s expression really says it all!
- Eyes: The Buhund has dark, expressive eyes that are medium-sized and oval in shape. They should have the breed’s unmistakable expression. The color of the eyes should be as dark as possible, with black eye rims.
- Ears: Norwegian Buhunds have upright, medium-sized ears that are pointed at the tip. They are set relatively high on the head and are very mobile. When the dog is alert, the ears face forward. When the dog is relaxed, the ears typically fold back and may do so as a sign of affection.
- Muzzle: The muzzle is moderately long and approximately the same length as the skull. It should taper gradually from a well-defined stop to the nose, with a straight bridge and tight lips.
- Nose: The nose is black in color and completely pigmented, with well-opened nostrils.
- Bite: The Norwegian Buhund has a complete set of strong, white teeth that meet in a scissors bite, which means the upper incisors overlap the lower incisors. Undershot and overshot bites are unacceptable.
Tail
The tail of the Norwegian Buhund is set high and tightly curled as is typical of most spitz-type breeds. It is carried over the centerline of the back as a visible signal of the dog’s mood and intentions. The tail’s set not only facilitates communication, it also enhances the distinctive and characteristic appearance for this Northern breed.
The Norwegian Buhund – What to Consider?
Sharing life with a Norwegian Buhund can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to consider several factors before bringing one into the home. Buhunds are an active and energetic breed, which means they require a lot of activity and exercise. Since they are known for their loyalty and desire to be with their families, some dogs may become anxious or destructive if left alone for extended periods. Although generally great with kids and other animals, early socialization is key to a happy household.
Home Life
Interaction With Family
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals will vary. While some breeds may only show genuine warmth towards their owner, remaining standoffish with strangers, other breeds will treat everyone they meet as if they are their closest friend.
Independent Affectionate
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed. Although supervision is always recommended during introductions, certain breeds tend to be inherently more or less sociable with other dogs, whether in a home setting or in public spaces.
Not Recommended Reliable With Other Dogs
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children, and its overall suitability as a family member, will vary. It is important to always supervise interactions between dogs and the kids in the house, as well as with children who are not accustomed to being around dogs.
Not Recommended Dependable With Children
Upkeep
Amount Of Shedding
The amount of hair that a dog sheds will typically depend on its breed. Heavy-shedding breeds require more frequent brushing, have a higher chance of activating specific allergies, and often necessitate more frequent use of the vacuum cleaner and lint rollers.
Low High
Frequency Of Grooming
The regularity with which a breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming, or other forms of coat care is an all-important consideration. When evaluating the grooming effort required, consider your available time, patience, and budget. It is important to note that all breeds need routine ear, teeth, and nail care.
Monthly Daily
Amount Of Drooling
The tendency of a breed to drool significantly varies from breed to breed. For those who prefer cleanliness or are particular about keeping things tidy, breeds that are likely to leave trails of drool on your arm or large slobbery marks on your clothing and furniture might not be the best fit.
Low High
Coat Type
smooth
wiry
hairless
rough
corded
double
curly
wavy
sikly
Behavior
Acceptance Of New People
The likelihood of a breed to be friendly towards strangers will vary. While some breeds may consistently exhibit reserve or caution around unfamiliar people, regardless of the setting, others are often eager to greet and interact with any new person they meet.
Reserved Outgoing
Protective Nature
The propensity of a dog to notify you of the presence of strangers is breed-dependent. Some breeds are more inclined to respond to any perceived threat, be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, most breeds are generally more accepting of strangers who are welcomed by their human family members.
Minimal Interest Maximum Vigilance
Playfulness Level
The likelihood of a breed remaining playful beyond puppyhood will vary. Certain breeds retain their enthusiasm for activities like tug-of-war or games of fetch well into their adult years, whereas others are more content to simply lounge on the sofa with you for the majority of time.
Low High
Adaptability Level
The ease with which a breed can adapt to changes in its environment can vary greatly. This adaptability encompasses how well a breed is likely to cope with alterations to its home and yard, noise levels, weather conditions, daily routines, and other fluctuations in everyday life.
Low High
Personality
Trainability Level
The ease with which a dog can be trained and its eagerness to learn new skills can depend on the breed. Some breeds are naturally inclined to please their owners and will readily accept training, while others tend to follow their own desires, often showing independence in how, when, and where they choose to do things.
Stubborn Eager
Barking Level
The frequency of vocalization, including barking and howling, will vary from breed to breed. Some may bark at each person who passes by and every bird in the sky, while others will typically bark only for a good reason. Additionally, a few breeds that do not typically bark will still be vocal, using different sounds to communicate.
Quiet Vocal
Energy Level
The level of physical exercise and mental engagement required will depend on the breed. High-energy breeds are always on the go. They are enthusiastic about their next activity and tend to be busy most of the time, running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. In contrast, low-energy breeds are akin to couch potatoes, content to just lounge around and take naps throughout the day.
Couch Potato Busybody
Need For Mental Stimulation
The extent of mental stimulation needed to keep a dog content and healthy will vary by breed. Dogs bred for specific purposes may need tasks involving decision-making, problem-solving, and concentration. Without sufficient mental exercise, these dogs can resort to creating their own activities to engage their minds, resulting in unwanted behaviors like chewing, digging, and escaping.
Minimal Engagement Intensive Interaction
Norwegian Buhund Health
The Norwegian Buhund is generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, individuals can be prone to certain health issues. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for catching any issues early on.
The average lifespan of a Norwegian Buhund is 12 to 15 years. Responsible breeders will conduct health screenings on their breeding dogs to reduce the risk of passing any hereditary condition on to their offspring.
Potential Health Risks
Although generally healthy breed, some Norwegian Buhunds can be prone to certain health conditions, including:
- Hip Dysplasia: This is a condition in which the hip joint doesn’t develop properly. It can lead to arthritis and lameness but can be managed with physical therapy and dietary supplements.
- Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia is a developmental disorder of the elbow joint. Pain and lameness require veterinary care and management.
- Eye Conditions: Some Norwegian Buhunds can be prone to certain eye conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts. Regular eye exams by a veterinary ophthalmologist are recommended.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Some dogs may have sensitivities or allergies to certain foods, leading to gastrointestinal problems. Choosing the right diet and monitoring digestive health are important.
- Hypothyroidism: This condition involves an underactive thyroid gland, which can lead to a range of symptoms that include weight gain, lethargy, and skin issues. Hypothyroidism is typically managed with medication.
- Skin Conditions: Skin allergies and dermatitis can affect some Buhunds. A proper grooming routine and a healthy diet can help to prevent or manage many skin problems.
- Obesity: Norwegian Buhunds have a hearty appetite, and without proper portion control and exercise they can become overweight. Obesity can exacerbate other health issues, so maintaining ideal weight and good condition is important for the dog’s overall good health.
Norwegian Buhund Personality
One of the most notable aspects of the Norwegian Buhund’s personality is its exceptional intelligence. These dogs are quick learners and have a keen problem-solving ability. Their intelligence makes them highly trainable, and they thrive on mental stimulation and challenges that are engaging.
The Buhund is known for its inherent watchfulness and alertness too. Historically bred as a herding and farm dog, these vigilant dogs have a strong sense of responsibility. They are naturally attuned to their surroundings, which makes them natural watchdogs. Their keen senses enable them to detect changes or disturbances, and they’re quick to alert their owners to potential threats or unwelcome visitors.
Buhunds possess a playful and lively personality. They have a youthful and exuberant spirit that can bring joy and laughter to any household. Whether engaging in interactive play, fetching a ball, or chasing after a frisbee, they are always up for a fun and spirited activity.
These dogs are deeply loyal to their families and form strong bonds with their human companions. They are always affectionate and thrive on human interaction and attention. Though undeniably loyal, Buhunds also have a degree of independence. This autonomy stems from the breed’s herding background, where the dog needed to make quick decisions while working. Self-assuredness makes the Buhund a confident and adaptable companion.
The Norwegian Buhund is typically good with children and other pets, especially when properly socialized from an early age. These dogs have a friendly and approachable demeanor, making them well-suited for family life. Their social nature ensures they typically get along well with others.
Norwegian Buhund Feeding & Nutrition
A balanced and nutritious diet is the foundation of good health for the Norwegian Buhund. It’s crucial to provide high-quality commercial dog food or a well-balanced diet. prepared at home. Buhunds, being active and energetic dogs, require a protein-rich diet to support their bodies and minds.
Fat is another vital element in this dog’s diet. It provides a concentrated source of energy and helps to maintain healthy skin and a shiny coat. Buhunds benefit from diets that contain moderate amounts of healthy fats.
While dogs are primarily carnivorous, they also need carbohydrates for energy. High-quality carbohydrates, like whole grains such as brown rice, oats, and vegetables, can provide valuable fiber and essential nutrients.
Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for the Norwegian Buhund’s overall well-being. Overfeeding should be avoided, as these dogs have hearty appetites and tend to gain weight if they’re overfed and underexercised. Portion sizes should always be measured and based on the dog’s age, activity level, and overall health.
Norwegian Buhund Training
Training is an integral part of responsible dog ownership. For the Norwegian Buhund, a breed known for its intelligence and versatility, training is essential component of the dog’s development and well-being. Working with this breed can be a rewarding experience due to the dog’s intelligence and eagerness to learn. However, because this dog can be strong-willed and independent at times, training should be well-structured, consistent, and always positive.
Socialization is a crucial part of training for a Buhund. Introducing the puppy to various people, animals, and environments from a young age helps the developing pup grow into a well-adjusted and confident adult.
Obedience training is essential for Buhunds to ensure they are well-behaved in social situations and responsive to commands. Basic obedience commands like “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “heel” are fundamental for their safety and the owner’s peace of mind.
Recall training is important because these dogs have a strong herding instinct and may be prone to chasing moving objects. Another important aspect is leash training. Buhunds are surprisingly strong dogs, so proper leash manners are essential for their safety.
The Norwegian Buhund is a highly intelligent dog and requires plenty of mental stimulation. Engaging these dogs with puzzle toys, obedience training, and dog sports will keep their active minds engaged. Mental exercises can also prevent boredom and the destructive behaviors that usually result from being left alone for extended periods.
Norwegian Buhund Exercise
The Norwegian Buhund is an active and energetic breed. The herding and working background of these dogs has endowed them with stamina and a love for strenuous activity. To ensure their physical and mental well-being, it’s important to meet their basic exercise requirements daily.
Exercise Expectations
| Energy Level |
Moderate to High |
| Exercise Requirements |
1 Hour/Day (Minimum), Daily Walks, Vigorous Running, Regular Exercise, Playing with Another Dog, Mental Stimulation |
The Buhund requires daily exercise to remain content and to prevent boredom-related behavioral issues. A minimum of 30 to 60 minutes of exercise each day is recommended. This can be achieved through various activities like walking, running, or simply playing.
These dogs thrive on outdoor adventures. Hiking, jogging, or exploring nature trails are excellent ways to provide exercise while enjoying quality time together. Buhunds are well-suited for active individuals or families that enjoy outdoor activities.
In addition to physical exercise, providing mental stimulation should be on the list. Puzzle toys, obedience training, and scent games are all ways to challenge their minds. Mental stimulation also helps to prevent boredom and the sometimes destructive behaviors that can result.
As the Norwegian Buhund ages, the dog’s exercise needs may change. Puppies require a lot of playtime and socialization, while seniors typically benefit from activities that are gentle and easy. Adjusting the type and duration of exercise to the dog’s age and physical condition is an essential responsibility for owners of this breed.
Norwegian Buhund Grooming
The Norwegian Buhund has a double coat that consists of a soft, dense undercoat and a weather-resistant outer coat. This insulating coat helps to regulate body temperature and provides protection from the elements.
Grooming Expectations
| Coat Type |
Thick, Hard, Smooth-Lying |
| Grooming Requirements |
Weekly Brushing, Occasional Bathing, Routine Ear Cleaning, Periodic Nail Trimming, Regular Tooth Brushing |
The Norwegian Buhund sheds its undercoat seasonally, which typically occurs twice a year. During these times, shedding can be heavy, so regular grooming can help to reduce the amount of hair that’s left around the house.
Regular brushing is essential to maintain the coat’s health as well as manage shedding. Using a pin brush or a slicker brush to reach the dense undercoat, and brushing in the direction of hair growth to remove loose hair and prevent matting, is important. This should be done at least twice each week, and more frequently during shedding seasons.
The Norwegian Buhund does not require frequent baths, and over-bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils. These dogs should be bathed only when needed, especially if they roll in something dirty. Regular ear cleaning is also important, as is keeping the nails neat and trimmed to prevent cracking and splitting.
Living with a Norwegian Buhund
Living with a Norwegian Buhund means embracing an active lifestyle. These dogs have boundless energy and a love of physical activity. Daily exercise is a must, which can include long walks, hikes, and unstructured play sessions. The breed’s enthusiasm for outdoor adventures, it should be noted, can even inspire owners to lead a more active and healthy lifestyle.
Buhunds are known for their loyalty and the deep bonds they develop with their families. Living with one of these loyal dogs means enjoying the benefits of a devoted and affectionate companion. They typically follow their people around the house, accompany them or errands, and seek attention that reinforces a strong and loving connection.
Most dogs of this breed have a natural instinct to be watchful and protective. While they are not aggressive, living with a Buhund means having a dog that will alert to any changes or disturbances in the environment. They make excellent watchdogs and do their best to keep their loved ones safe and secure.
Buhunds are sociable dogs that typically get along well with children, other pets, and even strangers. Life with one of these dogs means enjoying the company of a canine companion that is friendly, approachable, and open to social interactions. For many active people, they can be an excellent choice.
The Norwegian Buhund has a thick double coat that provides insulation in cold weather. These dogs are well-suited to cooler climates and enjoy playing in the snow. However, their dense coat can make them sensitive to excessive heat, and they can struggle in extremely hot temperatures. It’s essential, therefore, to provide shade and access to fresh water throughout the summer season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are Norwegian Buhunds loyal?
Norwegian Buhunds are known for their loyalty and close attachment to their families. They are typically bred as working farm dogs, meaning they are used to collaborating closely with humans. This relationship has fostered a strong bond between the breed and their owners. The Buhund’s loyalty manifests in the breed’s desire to be involved in family activities and the tendency to stay close to their human partners.
Do Norwegian Buhunds shed?
Buhunds do shed, especially since they have a double coat that is meant to protect them from various weather conditions in their native Norway. They typically undergo a heavy shedding period twice a year, known as “blowing coat,” where the dense undercoat is shed. Regular brushing can help to manage the coat loss, but owners should be prepared for some dog hair around the house.
Do Norwegian Buhunds bark a lot?
Norwegian Buhunds are vocal dogs and can be prone to barking. They were originally farm dogs used for herding livestock and guarding property, so they use their voice to alert and communicate. With proper training and socialization, their barking can be controlled, but potential owners should be aware that a quiet environment might not be the norm with an untrained Buhund.
Is the Norwegian Buhund a good family dog?
The Buhund can be an excellent family dog due to the breed’s friendly and affectionate nature. They are known to be good with children and enjoy being part of family activities. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them responsive to training, which is beneficial in a family setting. However, they do have high energy levels and require sufficient exercise to keep them happy and well-behaved.
Is the Norwegian Buhund a good service dog?
Norwegian Buhunds can be trained as Service Dogs due to their intelligence, eagerness to learn, and desire to work closely with humans. However, they are not as commonly used in service work as some other breeds. Their high energy levels and need for activity must be taken into account, but with the right training, they can perform various many service tasks effectively.
Is the Norwegian Buhund a good hunting dog?
While Buhunds are not typically categorized as hunting dogs, their herding background means they have a strong prey drive and can be trained for various types of work. They may not have the specialized skills for certain types of hunting, but their agility, intelligence, and stamina could be beneficial in activities like flushing and retrieving, provided they have the appropriate training from a young age.
Can a Norwegian Buhund be left home alone all day?
Norwegian Buhunds generally do not fare well when left alone for long periods. They thrive on companionship and can become bored and anxious, which may lead to destructive behavior. If left alone for an entire day, they will require adequate exercise before and after being left alone. Additionally, some form of enrichment, like puzzle toys, will be needed to keep them engaged.
Are Norwegian Buhunds high or low maintenance?
Norwegian Buhunds fall somewhere in the middle of the high-low maintenance spectrum. They do require regular physical exercise and mental stimulation due to their energy levels and intelligence. Their coat needs regular grooming, particularly during the shedding season, but beyond that, their care requirements are fairly standard. However, the Buhund’s need for companionship and training can be considered high-maintenance from a time and attention standpoint.
