Dunker
Other name: Norwegian Hound
The Dunker, or Norwegian Hound, is a unique scent hound breed developed in the early 19th century by Captain Wilhelm Conrad Dunker. Known for its blue-marbled (merle) coat and striking walleyes, the Dunker is celebrated for its exceptional hunting abilities, especially in tracking hare. This breed is characterized by its endurance, keen sense of smell, and calm temperament, making it an excellent working dog and a loyal companion.
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Life expectancy |
The Dunker has a life expectancy of between 11 and 13 years |
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Temperament |
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Size |
Medium
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Adult size |
Female
Between 19 and 21 in
Male
Between 20 and 23 in
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Adult weight |
Female
Between 44 and 55 lb
Male
Between 44 and 55 lb
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Coat colour
Grey, silver, tan. |
Black
White
Blue
Sand
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Type of coat
Short but extremely thick. Tough and wiry on the surface, with a soft undercoat. |
Short
Hard
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Eye colour
Dark brown |
Brown
Odd-eyed
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This is a dog that requires an expert dog handler. They’re exceptionally strong and very intelligent. Inexperienced dog owners will have a tough time handling these animals.
Despite their wild natures, they make excellent pets for the right kind of owners.
More details about the Dunker
Dunker: Origins and history
The Norwegian Hound or "Dunker" is named after Captain Wilhelm Conrad Dunker of Norway, who developed the breed by crossing various scent hounds in the early 19th century. The breed's group of hounds was extensive, including local hare hounds from across the country. A distinct feature of the Norwegian Hound has always been its blue-marbled (merle) coat and walleyes, although other colors are also accepted by the breed standard.
The breed's numbers declined during the Second World War but saw a significant resurgence in interest post-war, peaking in the 1970s before declining again. In the 1980s, the breed was notably homogenous with excellent hunting skills. However, inbreeding led to a high degree of relatedness among the dogs, prompting the need for crossbreeding to enhance genetic diversity and health while retaining the breed's typical and positive traits. Despite these efforts, the population remains low.
Physical characteristics of the Dunker
Medium sized, distinctly rectangular, powerfully built, but should not appear heavy. Should convey the impression of endurance.
FCI classification of the Dunker
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Group 6 - Scent hounds and related breeds
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Section 1 : Scent hounds
Dunker: Characteristics
Despite being bred to hunt some of the most fearsome predators on the planet, the Norwegian Hound is a big softy to the people he meets daily.
Younger Norwegian Hounds are extremely playful. They have boundless energy and will play for hours at a time. Games that stimulate his intellect and physical abilities will help to reinforce his education and the relationship between master and dog.
The Norwegian Hound can be quite boisterous, especially when they get excited. Although this can be entertaining, it can also overwhelm some people. These powerful dogs need a confident hand.
These dogs are very smart. This means they know how to get what they want. This highly intelligent dog is capable of running rings around an inexperienced dog owner.
The Norwegian Hound is a fearsome hunter. He is capable of tracking down bears, moose, and wolves.
He is naturally very suspicious of unfamiliar people and can be out of control if he is not well socialised.
These dogs are strong-minded, willful, and can become a real handful if not properly trained.
Dunker: Behaviour
The absence of his master doesn’t worry him, and allows him to fulfil his mission of guardian.
This intelligent, independent dog requires an expert handler who is familiar with complex dog training methods. First-time owners will struggle to handle this willful animal.
This dog is a real barker, and he’s capable of making lots of noise. He will bark incessantly when he spots his prey, and when he wants to get his master’s attention. Early training and socialisation are vital.
His very strong predatory instinct drives him to run off as soon as he has the opportunity.
They’re not naturally destructive dogs, although they are prone to separation anxiety. This can lead to destructive behaviour, and these powerful dogs can do lots of damage. Make sure their needs are being met.
Using treats to educate this dog is a must, because you really need to have good sources of motivation to get him to cooperate.
The Norwegian Hound is a first-rate watchdog. They also make excellent guard-dogs. They’re strong, brave, and fearless. Just one look at these dogs will deter any potential intruders.
Training a Dunker
This intelligent, independent dog requires an expert handler who is familiar with complex dog training methods. First-time owners will struggle to handle this willful animal.
Dunker: Lifestyle
These working dogs should never be kept in a flat or a small house. He should preferably live in the countryside, in a secure environment to avoid repeated escapes.
One hour of high-intensity physical and mental exercise every day. These dogs are much better on the leash than other working dogs, although they still need to run free and explore. This dog has stamina, courage, and energy in spades.
Norwegian Elkhounds are too big to travel by plane. He can travel alongside his master thanks to his average size, but it requires a lot of training and socialisation work to him to integrate well into new environments.
Breed compatibility Dunker
If you’ve got cats, then don’t get a Norwegian Hound. These dogs have a huge prey drive and will chase any cats at the first opportunity.
If they’re introduced from an early age, Norwegian Hounds get on really well with other dogs. Older hounds can be territorial and very protective of their owners. They might see other dogs as a threat.
Despite being very playful and loving, these dogs can be very boisterous and do not like being harassed. They’re not really suited for families with young children or toddlers.
Some elderly people will struggle handing these powerful dogs. They can also be quite stubborn and demanding.
If you’ve never owned a dog before, then the Norwegian Hound is not a good place to start. They’re far too willful for a novice dog owner.
Dunker: Purchase price
A Norwegian Hound costs approximately £560 if not registered at the Kennel Club.
Looking after a dog of this size typically costs between £50 to £100 a month, including food, medical/insurance, and incidental expenses.
Dunker: Shedding
Average
Dunker: Grooming
This dog must be brushed very frequently to maintain the protective qualities of his coat.
Dunker: Health
The lifespan of a Norwegian Hound is approximately 13 years.
These dogs are extremely strong and robust. Remember, they were bred to hunt wolves and bears.
The cold and wet won’t bother these dogs. Their thick furry coat provides excellent insulation during the winter months.
These dogs are not prone to weight gain or obesity, but they do become less active as they get older. So adjust their food intake accordingly.
- Ear infections
- Renal problems
- Progressive retinal atrophy
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