Family Concerns

The Norwegian Buhund or “Norsk Buhund”, a herding dog of the spitz group, is the farm dog of Norway, making the breed a great pet for families. Although the Norwegian Buhund has been in the UK for quite some time he has never become as popular a breed as you might have thought it would, so obtaining a puppy can take some patience, and breeders my not be available locally to all towns.

The Kennel Club Breed Standard requires the breed to have a height of 17¾” and the females must be slightly smaller. Please note that despite there being lightly built this dog is very solid. His weight will surprise you. The breed was first entered in agricultural shows in 1913, then it appeared again when the first Buhund shows were held in the 1920’s. These dogs are just waiting for exercise, training and challenges on their intelligence every day. Give them that and you will have an enormously eager and friendly trainable dog for a pet.

The Norwegian Buhund makes an excellent house-dog and their warning bark will deter unwelcome visitors despite their relatively small size. For a dog there is one great enjoyment, other than food(!), and that is getting out and exercising, As a dog owner you must appreciate that the deal is that you have to do this. If you don’t exercise your dog it is cruel.

At the beginning of this century the breed was on strong retreat, partly because of competition from foreign dogs imported to Norway, and partly due to mixing with other breeds without any breeding selection. These dogs are good family dogs, and also make good watch dogs around the home.

Since these dogs were introduced into this country more than forty years ago, there have been a small number of cases of epilepsy and a few of hip displaysia.

These dogs are friendly, fun-loving, loyal, affectionate and very intelligent.

History: The breed does like to bark, and if not kept occupied and taught when barking is allowed, it can become a nuisance.

Like most herding breeds, they are easily trained, agile and alert. Do consider this breed before you go out and buy you next dog. You will not regret it as long as you train them out of barking too much. In return you will be the owner of a hugely affectionate, gentle and companionable pet.

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