Norwegian Buhund
Other names : Norsk Buhund, Norwegian Sheepdog
The name of this dog, the Buhund, is taken from the Norwegian word “Bu” which means a simple mountain hut or a homestead. This is the building where a shepherd would tend his herd. The Norwegian Buhund is a herding dog, but he also has a playful nature. He needs a great deal of daily exercise and mental stimulation. This breed does very well at agility classes as they are a great outlet for his enthusiasm and energy.
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Life expectancy |
The Norwegian Buhund has a life expectancy of between 13 and 15 years |
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Temperament |
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Size |
Medium
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Adult size |
Female
Between 16 and 18 in
Male
Between 17 and 19 in
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Adult weight |
Female
Between 26 and 35 lb
Male
Between 31 and 40 lb
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Coat colour
Wheaten or black. |
Black
Sand
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Type of coat
The Norwegian Buhund breed has a dense, double coat which is very weather resistant. The dog’s undercoat is thick and soft and his top coat hard and short. |
Short
Hard
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Eye colour
Very dark. |
Brown
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Purchase price |
The Norwegian Buhund costs between £500 and £1000 |
The Norwegian Buhund breed excels at many canine activities and in their working roles. Although not too many of these dogs are used as herding dogs, they are also put to use as assistance dogs. They are also an excellent dog for canine sport competitions. If you intend to keep your dog purely as a domestic pet, you must remember that he needs to take part in sports and activities to challenge both his physical and mental health. He needs lots of outdoor exercise and long energetic walks too.
More details about the Norwegian Buhund
Norwegian Buhund: Origins and history
The Norwegian Buhund dog is from the Spitz type of canines, of which there are many variations in coat colour and size. The dog’s ancestors are from the Viking period. Indeed, remains of 6 mummified dogs were found in an excavation in Gokstad in Norway. It’s understood that the Vikings took their dogs on travels with them, and when they died, their dogs and other special possessions were buried right next to them in a tomb. The Norwegian Buhund was then used over many regions in Norway as a herding and working dog, a practice which continues to this day.
Physical characteristics of the Norwegian Buhund
With a square profile, this medium-sized Buhund dog has a wedge shaped head and a deep chest. The dog’s ears are pricked and he has a black nose. He carries his tail over the centre of his back, tightly curled.
FCI classification of the Norwegian Buhund
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Group 5 - Spitz and primitive types
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Section 3 : Nordic Watchdogs and Herders
Norwegian Buhund: Characteristics
The Norwegian Buhund is very affectionate around his family, especially with the children, and loves to cuddle up on the sofa with them.
Even though this breed is fearless and brave, it is also a wonderful companion, who loves to romp at the park with the children.
A gentle and calm dog.
Compared to some other Spitz-breed dogs, the Norwegian Buhund is less headstrong. However, he’s also very intelligent and may use this to suit his own needs.
The Buhund has a strong herding instinct which may show as chasing behaviours, after either children, cars or livestock.
The majority of Norwegian Buhund dogs are rather wary around strangers.
This dog certainly has a very independent spirit, but is still willing to work with his master.
Norwegian Buhund: Behaviour
This dog prefers to be with his family both offering and demanding companionship. He doesn’t like being left alone during the daytime.
Consistent, kind training is needed for the smart Norwegian Buhund. While he is certainly capable of learning many complex commands without problems, he requires an experienced trainer to deliver this training.
The Norwegian Buhund has a high-pitched, rapid bark that can become annoying, especially when he uses it frequently.
This is a dog that loves to work, so it’s important to keep the Buhund occupied. Likewise, he has a strong herding instinct that may cause him to chase after cars, other animals or children.
As a breed that loves to be around people, when left alone for long periods, it can become destructive, or may bark excessively.
Not known to be a gluttonous breed.
With his very keen watchful attitude and senses, the Norwegian Buhund makes a marvellous alarm dog, although care must be taken to control his barking.
Training a Norwegian Buhund
Consistent, kind training is needed for the smart Norwegian Buhund. While he is certainly capable of learning many complex commands without problems, he requires an experienced trainer to deliver this training.
Norwegian Buhund: Lifestyle
This dog is very active, and needs a lifestyle to reflect this. He also needs at least a small fenced-in outside space for him to run around.
These dogs have been bred to herd and work outdoors for many hours at a time. Because of this, the Norwegian Buhund is a very energetic dog that needs vigorous exercise. He loves to go on all-day hikes, retrieve balls, run next to a bicycle and even participate in agility, tracking and obedience tasks.
This is an active breed, who won’t take too kindly to travelling on public transport. He will tolerate short journeys in the rear of a vehicle.
Breed compatibility Norwegian Buhund
Because this dog is a herding breed, care must be taken around cats and other small pets, or he will give chase.
A Norwegian Buhund is often fine with other dogs in the household, especially if they have been raised together.
This is a trustworthy dog, especially around children. He makes a loving and pleasant addition to an active family home.
Even though he needs a large amount of daily exercise to meet his needs, the Buhund also makes an ideal companion pet for an elderly person.
Providing you can meet this dog’s high energy requirements, and maintain his optimum mental and physical health, the Norwegian Buhund will make a good first dog.
Norwegian Buhund: Purchase price
Expect to pay between £500 to £1000 for a Norwegian Buhund dog. In addition, monthly costs to cover food, vet bills, and pet insurance will amount to between £80 to £100.
Norwegian Buhund: Grooming
This dog has a thick, harsh outer coat with a dense, soft undercoat. His coat is fairly easy to groom and brushing several times weekly should suffice.
Norwegian Buhund: Health
Generally a healthy dog breed, however as with many active dogs, he can suffer from hip dysplasia as well as hereditary eye conditions. His average life expectancy is 14 years.
A brave, bold, active and energetic dog breed.
As a native from Norway, the Buhund doesn’t do too well in warm temperatures, especially with his thick coat hair.
The Norwegian Buhund certainly tolerates the cold weather without any issues.
Some dogs are more prone to gaining weight, yet because of his high level of energy and need for vigorous exercise, this dog won’t become obese too easily.
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