7 Norwegian Dog Breeds: Pictures, Facts & History
Tucked away in Northern Europe, the Scandinavian country of Norway is a land of dramatic landscapes – from deep fjords and snow-capped mountains to the windswept coastlines of the Arctic Circle. It‘s a place of raw, rugged beauty with a climate to match. And amidst these harsh conditions, a collection of unique and fascinating dog breeds have emerged over the centuries – breeds exquisitely adapted to thrive in this challenging environment.
The history of dogs in Norway is a long one, with canine remains discovered alongside human settlements dating as far back as the Stone Age. For thousands of years, dogs have lived and worked in partnership with the Norwegian people – hunting game, guarding livestock, herding reindeer, and serving as loyal companions on farms and homesteads. Over time, the demands of this lifestyle shaped the evolution of several distinct breeds, many of which remain little-known outside their native land.
Norwegian dog breeds can be divided into two main classifications – the spitz-type dogs and the scent hounds. Spitz breeds, which include the Norwegian Elkhound and Buhund, trace their lineage back to ancient times. They are characterized by their thick, stand-off double coats, prick ears, and a wolf-like appearance. These are dogs built for the cold, with sturdy bodies and lush tails that can cover their nose when curled up against the chill. Bold, intelligent, and independent-minded, spitz dogs had the fortitude and wits to expertly navigate the Scandinavian wilderness.
The scent hound breeds, like the Halden Hound and Hygen Hound, emerged more recently in the last 200 years. They were developed by crossing various European hounds to create tenacious trackers well-suited to hunting hare and fox in Norway‘s dense forests and rocky highlands. These medium-sized dogs have long, hanging ears, shorter coats, and a strong prey drive. While perhaps a bit more biddable than their spitz cousins, they still possess the toughness and work ethic that‘s a must for any Norwegian breed.
Let‘s take a closer look at the seven recognized breeds that comprise Norway‘s canine patrimony:
The Norwegian Lundehund is arguably one of the most unique dog breeds on the planet. Originating on the remote Lofoten Islands off Norway‘s northern coast, this small spitz-type dog was specifically bred to scale cliffs and raid the nests of puffin birds. To accomplish this daunting task, they developed several extraordinary physical adaptations including six toes on each foot for extra grip, elastic necks that can crane backward to touch the spine, and ears that fold shut to keep out dirt and moisture. Sadly, as puffin hunting was outlawed and the breed declined, the Lundehund nearly went extinct in the 1940s. Today, they are still exceedingly rare with only around 1,500 dogs in the world. While not suited to every home due to their primitive nature and escape artist tendencies, Lundehunds are loyal and playful companions known for their acrobatic antics and affectionate "clowning."
The Norwegian Buhund, meaning "farm dog" in Norwegian, is an ancient spitz-type breed and a cherished part of the country‘s cultural heritage. Remains of Buhund-like dogs have been excavated from Viking graves, a testament to the breed‘s long history as a treasured companion. A true jack-of-all-trades, Buhunds were used to herd livestock, guard property, and hunt game on farms throughout Norway. They are compact but powerful dogs – standing around 17 inches tall with a square, well-muscled build. The thick wheaten or black coat, curled tail, and upright ears give them a striking, foxy appearance. This is an agile, energetic breed with the stamina to work all day. While their independence and watch dog tendencies can be challenging for novice owners, in the right hands Buhunds make deeply devoted and trainable pets.
The Norwegian Elkhound is probably the most well-known of the Norwegian breeds due to a concerted effort by fanciers to promote them internationally in the early 20th century. The "Gray" variety has been especially popular in America and was recognized by the AKC all the way back in 1913. Bigger and more substantial than the Buhund, male Elkhounds stand around 20 inches tall with a solid, muscular frame. As their name suggests, they were originally used to track and hold moose and other big game at bay until the hunter could arrive. This required a dog of immense courage and tenacity – qualities the breed still possesses in spades. While Elkhounds are famous for being strong-willed and somewhat stubborn, they respond well to positive training and make loyal, affectionate companions. Just be sure to provide plenty of exercise for this boisterous breed!
In addition to the standard Gray, there is also a Black variety of Norwegian Elkhound. Slightly bigger than their gray cousins, Black Elkhounds have a solid jet-black coat with no other markings. They were traditionally used as trackers for moose hunting and excel in this role due to their stamina, strong nose, and bold nature. Like the Gray Elkhound, they need an experienced owner ready to put in the time and training this willful breed requires. But with proper socialization and firm boundaries, they can make wonderful companions known for their gentle, friendly personalities.
The Hygen Hound is a rare Norwegian breed developed in the mid-1800s by crossing various German and Scandinavian hounds. Named after breeder Hygen Olsen Hygendalen, they were purpose-built to hunt hare in Norway‘s rocky, challenging terrain. Standing around 21 inches tall, Hygen Hounds have a rectangular build with long legs, hanging ears, and a short red or tricolor coat. Stamina, speed, and scenting ability were the top priorities when developing this breed. They are determined, tireless hunters with the prey drive to match. Interestingly, they are known to be highly territorial and suspicious of strangers, making them excellent watch dogs but potentially a challenge in homes with lots of visitors. Currently there are only around 100 Hygen Hounds registered each year, mostly in Norway.
The Halden Hound, also called the Haldensstover, was created by crossing English Foxhounds with local Norwegian hounds in the late 19th century. Like the Hygen, they were bred to pursue hare through Norway‘s dense forests, a job they still excel at today. These are relatively small scenthounds, with males standing about 20-22 inches tall. The coat is short and fine in black, brown, and white. They have long, inquisitive muzzles and the hanging ears typical of hound breeds. This is an extremely rare breed with only a few hundred in existence, nearly all in Norway. Halden Hounds are prized for their friendly, outgoing nature and trainability. They can make very rewarding companions for active families committed to providing the exercise and mental stimulation these bright, inquisitive dogs need. However, their strong prey drive means supervision and secure fencing are a must.
Rounding out our survey of Norwegian breeds is the Dunker, also known as the Norwegian Hound. With a name meaning "the other dog," Dunkers were developed as an all-purpose hunting dog adept at tracking rabbit and fox as well as larger quarry like deer and moose. To create this versatile hunter, Norwegian scenthounds were crossed with Bloodhounds and various Russian hounds starting in the early 1800s. The result was a medium-sized, muscular hound standing 20-24 inches with a distinctive blue merle or tricolor coat, long floppy ears, and an keen, friendly expression. Dunkers are revered for their stamina, scenting ability, and toughness in cold conditions. They have a strong prey drive and a beautiful, melodious voice when on the trail. Still used primarily as a hunting breed, Dunkers can make faithful companions but require patience, training, and plenty of vigorous exercise.
As you can see, the seven native breeds of Norway each have a unique history and set of characteristics reflecting their purpose-bred origins in this beautiful but unforgiving land. From the puffin-hunting Lundehund to the moose-tracking Elkhound, these are tough, intelligent, independent dogs shaped by the demands of a hardscrabble life in the cold north.
Sadly, many of these breeds are now in danger of disappearing forever. Changing lifestyles, a decline in hunting culture, and the introduction of foreign breeds have all contributed to shrinking populations of purebred Norwegian dogs. The Halden Hound, for example, is listed as critically endangered by the Norwegian Kennel Club with only around 30 new puppies registered each year. Other breeds like the Buhund and Lundehund, while faring slightly better, still number only in the hundreds.
For Norwegians, protecting their native dog breeds is about more than preserving pedigrees – it‘s about safeguarding an integral piece of their cultural identity. Breed clubs and devoted fanciers are working hard to promote interest and responsible breeding of these national treasures. In 2017, the Norwegian Kennel Club even launched a "breed of the year" campaign to shine a spotlight on endangered native breeds.
If you‘re considering adding a Norwegian breed to your family, do your research to ensure you can provide the right environment for these active, strong-willed dogs. Look for a responsible preserve breeder who health tests their stock and is committed to bettering the breed. Be prepared to provide plenty of exercise, training, and "jobs" to fulfill their high energy and working drive.
With their noble history and captivating personalities, the native dogs of Norway are a fascinating study for any dog lover. Though rare, these breeds have so much to offer as both working partners and cherished companions. By opening our hearts and homes to Norway‘s canine ambassadors, we not only enrich our own lives but help preserve an amazing legacy for generations to come.
