Members
01/Overview
The Norwegian Buhund originated in its namesake country where it was a put to work as a dependable herder of livestock and defender of the homestead. The breed’s intelligence makes it an easy dog to train; however, its independent streak makes consistent training from puppyhood a must. An alert temperament and the tendency to bark make the Buhund an excellent choice as a watchdog, but these affectionate companions are probably too friendly to pose any serious threat. Buhunds are extremely affectionate with their family members, including the children, and they typically enjoy a snuggle on the couch as much as they like keeping a vigilant eye on things.
Highlights
02/History
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.
03/Appearance
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.
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.
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.
Standard Colors
Standard Markings
04/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.
Interaction With Family
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals.
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed.
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children.
Amount Of Shedding
How much hair a breed typically leaves behind on clothes, furniture and floors.
Frequency Of Grooming
How often a breed needs brushing, bathing or a professional trim to stay in condition.
Amount Of Drooling
How prone a breed is to drool — worth knowing before you keep a towel by the door.
Openness To Strangers
How openly a breed tends to greet new people, visitors and strangers.
Protective Nature
How likely a breed is to alert you to — and stand between you and — anything unfamiliar.
Playfulness Level
How enthusiastic a breed stays about games and play well past puppyhood.
Trainability Level
How readily a breed takes direction and works with you rather than around you.
Barking Level
How much a breed uses its voice, and how readily.
Energy Level
How much get-up-and-go a breed brings to an average day.
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.
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.
Exercise Expectations
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.
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.
05/Puppies
Norwegian Buhund puppies make adorable, intelligent, and energetic additions to almost any household. It's crucial, however, to find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. Buhund puppies are a long-term commitment that require time, attention, and training to become well-adjusted adults.
Before bringing a Buhund puppy home, it's essential to puppy-proof the home. Preventive measures include removing potential hazards, such as toxic plants, small objects, and electrical cords, from the pup's immediate environment as well as providing a secure and welcoming space to call its own.
Nutrition is essential during the Buhund's growing phases. To ensure the puppy gets all the nutrition it needs for optimal growth, it's essential to feed a food that's formulated for puppies. A regular feeding schedule is also a smart idea during puppyhood and throughout the life of the dog.
Important aspects of puppy care include basic obedience training and socialization. Training the pup at an early stage will encourage good behavior as an adult, and regular socialization will instill confidence and prevent many unwanted behavioral issues later in life.
The Buhund puppy is typically energetic and requires daily exercise and time to play. Engaging in age-appropriate activities will stimulate both the pup's body and mind, and interactive games of fetch and puzzle toys are excellent ways to engage the youngster's body and mind.
06/Activities
Norwegian Buhunds are active and intelligent dogs that thrive on physical activity and mental stimulation. Engaging in various dog sports can not only keep these dogs happy and healthy, it will also strengthen the bond between the Buhund and its human partner.
Gallery
07/Standards
The Norwegian Buhund is recognized by the world's leading registries and kennel organizations, which categorize the breed into a specific Group based on its unique characteristics. This breed is recognized worldwide under the following Group designations:
The ideal Norwegian Buhund is described by a Breed Standard that is approved by each of the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations. The Breed Standards for this breed may be found in the following links:
08/Clubs
09/Rescue
10/Facts
Ancient Heritage
The Norwegian Buhund is considered one of the oldest Scandinavian dog breeds, with a history dating back over a thousand years.
Viking Companions
Buhunds were believed to have accompanied the Vikings during their expeditions. They were valuable for herding and guarding livestock wherever the Vikings traveled.
Norwegian Name
The breed's name, "Buhund," is derived from the Norwegian words "bu," meaning farm, and "hund," meaning dog. Essentially, they are "farm dogs" of Norway.
Barking Style
Norwegian Buhunds have a unique barking style known as the "Buhund yodel." Instead of making a familiar bark, they produce a vocalization that is often described as a yodel or a singing-like sound.
Sensitivity to Heat
Due to their dense double coat, Buhunds can be sensitive to hot weather. They may struggle in extreme heat, so it's crucial to provide shade and water during warm summer months.
Loyal & Loving
Buhunds are known for their loyalty and affection towards their families. They often form deep bonds with their owners and are dedicated and protective companions.
Versatile Working Dog
In addition to herding, Norwegian Buhunds have been used for a range of tasks, including hunting, guarding, and vermin control on farms.
Herding Tendencies
These dogs may exhibit herding behaviors, such as nipping at heels or trying to round up people or other animals. Proper training and redirection are essential to manage these instincts.
National Treasure
In Norway, Buhunds are considered a national treasure and are appreciated for their historical significance and their role in preserving the country's rural traditions.
Loving Family Dogs
While the breed has a strong working background, the Norwegian Buhund is also known for its gentle and affectionate nature, making these dogs an excellent choice as a family companion.
11/FAQ
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.
Official Standard for the Norwegian Buhund
General Appearance: The Norwegian Buhund is a herding dog. It is a typical northern breed, a little under medium size and squarely built, with a tightly curled tail carried over the back. The head is wedge-shaped and not too heavy, with prick ears. As it is extremely intelligent by nature, consistent training is needed from early puppyhood. The Buhund has a lot of energy, strength and stamina. This self-appointed watchdog is also content lying at your feet at the end of the day. Broken teeth, broken whiskers and honorable scars incurred in the line of herding/working duty are acceptable. The breed is to be shown in a natural state. Any shaving or trimming of the coat or shaving of whiskers, is to be severely penalized.
Size, Proportion, Substance: Size - Height at the highest point of the shoulder blade in dogs, 17 to 18½ inches; in bitches, 16 to 17½ inches. Disqualifying faults - more than a 1/2 inch under, or 1 inch over the height at the highest point of the shoulder blade. Weight - For dogs 31 to 40 pounds; for bitches, 26 to 35 pounds. Proportion - Square in profile. The height, measured vertically from the ground to the highest point of the shoulder blade, equals the length, measured horizontally from the prosternum to the rear projection of the upper thigh. Substance - Substance and bone is in proportion to the overall dog.
Head: The size of the head should be in proportion to the body and not too heavy. The skull is wedge-shaped, almost flat, and parallel with the bridge of the nose. The muzzle is about the same length as the skull, with a stop that is well defined but not too pronounced. The nasal bridge is straight and well filled out under the eyes. The lips should be black and tightly closed. The teeth should meet in a scissors bite, with complete dentition. Disqualifying fault - overshot or undershot mouth. Whiskers serve a function, purpose. Removal of facial whiskers is to be severely penalized. Eyes - Oval shaped, color as dark as possible, black eye rims. Ears - Medium sized, prick ears with pointed tips, carried strongly erect yet very mobile. When relaxed or showing affection the ears go back, and the dog should not be penalized for doing this during the judge's examination. Nose - Black.
Neck, Topline, Body: Neck - Of medium length, is well set on, with no loose skin on the throat. Topline - The back is level; croup with as little slope as possible. Body - Chest deep, ribs well-sprung; tail set high, tightly curled and carried over the center line of the back.
Forequarters: Shoulders moderately sloping, elbows well set, turned neither in nor out; legs substantial but not coarse in bone, legs seen from the front appear straight and parallel; pastern seen from the side moderately sloping; feet oval in shape with tightly closed toes, feet turned neither in nor out.
Hindquarters: Moderate angulation at stifle and hock, upper thigh powerful, well muscled; lower thigh well muscled, seen from behind legs are straight and strong, feet same as above. Dewclaws are optional. If present they may be double or single.
Coat: Outer coat is thick and hard, but rather smooth lying. The under coat is soft and dense. The coat on the head and front of the legs is comparatively short. The coat on the neck, chest and back of thighs is longer. The coat should not be trimmed except for the trimming of feet. Shaving, sculpting, removal of outer coat, should be so severely penalized as to eliminate from competition.
Color: Wheaten - Any shade from pale cream to bright orange, with or without dark tipped hairs; as little white as possible; black mask acceptable. Black - Preferably without too much bronzing; with as little white as possible. Areas where white is permissible: a narrow white ring around the neck, a narrow blaze on the face, a small patch of white hairs on the chest, white feet and tip of the tail.
Gait: The action is free and effortless. The topline remains level while moving. Sound movement is essential for working ability.
Temperament: Self-confident, alert, lively, and very affectionate with people.
Faults: The foregoing description is that of the ideal Norwegian Buhund. Any deviation from the above described dog is to be penalized to the extent of the deviation.
Disqualifying Faults: More than ½ inch under or 1 inch over the height at the highest point of the shoulder blade. Over shot or under shot mouth.
Approved January 14, 2020
Effective March 31, 2020
Meet the Judges
Thomas W. Coen reflects on judging Herding breeds at Westminster 2026, highlighting entry quality, Breed winners, and Group success.
Meet the Breeders
Amie McLaughlin of Cloudpointe shares her passion for Norwegian Buhunds, breed preservation, and mentoring future exhibitors.
Meet the Breeders
Interview with Dawne Deeley, TsarShadow Buhund Breeder | 30 Years of canine excellence, health, and progress.
Meet the Breeders
Experienced breeders of Arcane Kennel, Kelly and Kendra discuss breed types, health, and the dog show community.
Meet the Breeders
Discover FABRAJ Norwegian Buhunds with breeder Faye Adcox. From Wyoming, Delaware, she shares insights on the breed’s health and versatility.
Meet the Junior Handlers
Interview with a Junior Handler, Micaela Kenyon. Micaela shares her thoughts on various topics regarding the Junior Showmanship ring.
Discover the rich history and versatile traits of Norwegian Buhunds – from viking companions to modern-day helpers. Learn more!
Meet the Breeders
Interview with Herding Group Breeder Amie McLaughlin – I’ve been in dogs for 20 years. I started in 4-H, which led me to become interested in
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.
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.
Coat Type
Double
The structure of the coat this breed carries.
Coat Length
Medium
How long the breed's coat grows when kept in condition.
Adaptability Level
How easily a breed copes with changes in home, routine, noise and weather.
Mental Stimulation Needs
How much a breed needs a job, a puzzle or training to stay content.
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.
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.
Grooming Expectations
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.
