Norrbottenspitz
Other name: Norrbottenspets
The compact yet agile Norrbottenspitz is a small spitz-type Nordic breed which was originally used as a working farm dog. However, once word got around about this lovely pup’s warm temperament, friendliness towards children and tolerance of other animals, it grew in popularity as a family companion pup. Devoted to its owners and protective by nature, the Norrbottenspitz could be a great match for active families.
Life expectancy |
The Norrbottenspitz has a life expectancy of between 12 and 14 years |
Temperament |
|
Size |
Small
|
Adult size |
Female
Between 16 and 17 in
Male
Between 17 and 19 in
|
Adult weight |
Female
Between 20 and 22 lb
Male
Between 20 and 22 lb
|
Coat colour
White with coloured patches, which are often cream, brown, red or black. |
White Red Sand |
Type of coat
The coat is short, straight, hard, dense, and weather-proof. |
Short |
Eye colour
Amber to dark brown. |
Brown
|
There’s an ongoing debate about whether the Norrbottenspitz originates from Sweden or Finland - and we’ll probably never know for sure!
More details about the Norrbottenspitz
Norrbottenspitz: Origins and history
The Norrbottenspitz originates from Sweden or Finland (who knows?), with written documentation of the breed found from the 1600s. While some believe the breed descends from Dingos, it’s true origins are unknown. However, it has classically been used as a working dog, a guard dog and even in search and rescue jobs. The breed came shockingly close to extinction after WWI, but thanks to a dedicated breeding programme, the population now manages to flourish.
FCI classification of the Norrbottenspitz
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Group 5 - Spitz and primitive types
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Section 2 : Nordic Hunting Dogs
Norrbottenspitz: Characteristics
Norrbottenspitz: Behaviour
Training a Norrbottenspitz
Although the Norbottenspitz has the intelligence to pick up tricks and commands with ease, the breed can be a little free-thinking during training sessions. Plenty of rewards and positive reinforcement works best, with lots of patience and dedication thrown in for good measure. Truthfully, the Norbottenspitz can make a very obedient pooch - it just may take some time to get there!
Norrbottenspitz: Lifestyle
Breed compatibility Norrbottenspitz
Norrbottenspitz: Purchase price
We do not have enough data to set an average price. However, looking after a dog of this size typically costs between £70 to £100 a month, including food, medical/insurance, and incidental expenses.
Norrbottenspitz: Shedding
Heavy !
This breed is a significant shedder.
Norrbottenspitz: Grooming
The Norrbottenspitz is rather low-maintenance in terms of grooming, requiring a normal weekly brush and an occasional bath when needed. Remember to check and clean the ears, trim nails if necessary and brush the teeth daily.
Norrbottenspitz: Health
This is generally a healthy breed with an above average life expectancy of 13 years and a strong immune system.
The Norrbottenspitz is known to be hardy, agile and healthy.
This breed can tolerate warm weather, but may struggle in extremes of heat.
Thanks to its thick double coat, the Norrbottenspitz is extremely tolerant of cold weather.
If under-exercised, the Norrbottenspitz may end up gaining weight. It’s important to remember that while this is a small breed, it still requires plenty of activity.
- Patellar luxation
- Hip dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Eye problems