The Norwegian Buhund is a Spitz type of herding dog.  They have a lot of energy, strength and stamina and should have a family with the same.

Physical Characteristics

• Medium-sized, square body dog with tightly curled tail over back and erect ears
• Typical northern breed of the Spitz type
• Eyes: Oval shaped, color as dark as possible, black eye rims
• Coat: Outer coat is thick and hard; 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.
• Color: Any wheaten shade from pale cream to bright orange, with or without dark tipped hairs; or black with small white markings.
• Height: males 17 to 18 ½ inches; in females, 16 to 17 ½ inches at the shoulder
• Weight: males 31 to 40 pounds; females, 26-35 pounds
• Average lifespan: 12-14 years

Temperament

• Self confident, alert and lively
• Interaction with people: very affectionate; good with children
• Interaction with animals: good when properly introduced
• Level of attention needed: their Spitz independence is an asset if they have to be left alone for awhile. Prefer being at the center of family activities.
• Training: extremely intelligent; innate desire to please plus a quick learning aptitude; consistent training is needed from early puppyhood

At Home

• Active dog who needs ample amounts of exercise
• Self-appointed watch dog
• Barks to communicate
• Enjoys playtime with its owner

Grooming

• Regular brushing to pull loose fur
• Sheds heavily a couple of times a year

Brief History

• In the ancient Gokstad excavation in Norway, where a Viking grave from about the year 900 was opened, skeletons from six dogs of various sizes were found.
• When Vikings died, their most cherished and necessary possessions were buried alongside their owners. This was to care for the Vikings and continue their herding duties in their afterlife.
• It has been documented that these dogs travelled with Vikings on their many journeys, by sea and by land.
• Due to the initiative of Norway's state-counsel, John Saeland, the first Buhund show was held at Jaeren in the 1920's.
• The Norsk Buhundklubb was established in 1939.

Fido's Facts

• Originally they hunted bear and wolf.
• The Norwegian Buhund is also known as Norsk Buhund and Norwegian Sheepdog.
• In their country of origin, Norway, Norwegian Buhunds are still used as general farm dogs herding livestock and guarding the home.
• Today they are also trained to aid the hearing impaired and perform some types of police work.