Norwegian Buhund - TOP 10 Interesting Facts

1) Viking Dog
This is a very ancient dog breed, that were known in Scandinavia even before the days of the Vikings. In the Gokstad excavation, which is a location of massive Viking grave, six skeletons of dogs very similar to Norwegian Buhunds were found. It is believed that Vikings valued the Norwegian Buhund very closely and it is believed that they traveled together everywhere, either on the sea or across the rough and rugged terrain.

2) Purpose
The Buhund we know today was most likely developed on the western coast of Norway, where they served different purpose than traveling. They were used as skilled farm dogs and herders. Their suspicisous nature also make them great watchdogs and in the modern times, they are sometimes used for police work or as hearing dogs for the hearing impaired. As you can see, this is a really hard working and versatile breed.

3) Colors
According to the official breed standard, you can find Norwegian Buhund in two colors. The first one is is black, without too much bronzing. The second is wheaten, from pale cream to bright orange. Wheaten dogs can also have dark tipped hair. Both color variations can have white markings.

4) Spitz appearance
You can see on the first sight that this is a northern Spitz, they just have all the typical sign. The Norwegian Buhund has erect triangular ears on the top of their wedge shaped head and tail that curls over his back. The Buhund should have dark oval shaped eyes.

5) Size
This is a medium sized, athletic and well muscled breed with average height between 16-19 inches which is 41-48 cm and weight is typically between 12-18 kgs, which is 26-40 pounds. Females are naturallly little bit smaller than males.

6) Name
The name Norwegian Buhund is very descriptive. They are from Norway, the word Hund means a dog and the word Bu is a norwegian word for homestead or mountain hut, which is a place where the shepherd in Norway lived. It can also means livestock, both explanation makes a lot of sense.

7) Family companion
You already know that this is a great worker, either a watchdog, farm dog or even service dog. But it is also a great choice as a typical family companion. Well, at least for active families. This is very intelligent, eager to please, cheerful and intelligent dog. They will love to play all day with older kids. Norwegian Buhund is also extremely well trainable, but because of their independent mind, they need firm and patient trainer.

8) Talking
The Buhund just loves to talk, this is a very vocal breed. Sometimes it really sounds they are trying to have a conversation with you, because they are using variety of different sounds, starting from barking, to yips, yodels, trills or chortles.

9) High energy

Oh yes, the Norwegian Buhund is always ready for any action or adventure. Their energy level is just endless. It is because in the past they were bred to work for hours, so they just need some kind of a work in their life. It is important to stimulate their body and mind. They will love long walks, hikes, good playtime or you can try some dog sport with them, they are good at agility or flyball.

10) Health
This is a healthy and hardy dog breed with average lifespan between 12-15 years. Just like all dogs, they can suffer from some health issues, most commonly from cataracts and hip dysplasia. And once again, if you want to have a healthy and happy Buhund in your home, daily proper exercise is a must.