The Norwegian Buhund: A Fascinating Viking Dog Breed

Introduction

The Norwegian Buhund is a captivating Spitz breed with a rich history dating back to the Viking era. Prized for their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility, these dogs served as invaluable farm and household companions in their native Norway. Even today, their alert, energetic, and people-oriented nature makes them an intriguing choice for active dog lovers. However, their independent spirit and high exercise needs mean they aren‘t the right fit for everyone. Let‘s delve into what makes this ancient breed unique.

History and Origin

Norwegian Buhunds have been an integral part of Scandinavian life for over a thousand years. The breed‘s name comes from the Norwegian word "bu" meaning homestead, farm or mountain hut, and "hund" meaning dog. As the name suggests, they were all-purpose farm dogs involved in herding livestock, guarding property, and hunting game like puffins and other birds. Some historians even suggest they were used for collecting taxes in the form of stockfish and other goods.

These sturdy, medium-sized dogs were so cherished by the Vikings that they are mentioned in Norse mythology and sagas. In the Gokstad excavation of a 9th-century Viking grave, skeletal remains of six dogs were found, with at least four identified as Buhund ancestors. This discovery indicates that Buhunds sometimes were honored with ship burials alongside their masters.

As Vikings explored and settled in new lands like Iceland, Greenland, the Faroe Islands, and the British Isles, they brought their trusty Buhunds along. This is likely how the breed contributed to the development of other Nordic spitz-type breeds like the Icelandic Sheepdog, Karelian Bear Dog, Swedish Vallhund, and Norwegian Lundehund.

Breed Revival and Recognition

The Buhund‘s prowess as a farm and hunting companion began to cause a decline in their numbers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as farming practices changed in Norway. The breed nearly went extinct, but thankfully, dedicated fanciers realized the urgent need for preservation breeding.

In the 1920s, Norweigian Buhund enthusiasts Jon Saeland and Toralf Raanaas began a dedicated breeding program using the few remaining quality dogs. Their efforts, combined with those of other breeders, helped revitalize the Buhund population. The Norwegian Buhund Club of Norway was formed in 1939, and the breed standard was approved in 1954 by the Norwegian Kennel Club.

Norwegian Buhunds gained recognition with the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1955 and the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2009. Today, while still relatively rare, they have a devoted following around the world.

Appearance and Physique

The Norwegian Buhund is a medium-sized, compact spitz with a squarely built, athletic body. They have a wedge-shaped head, pointed muzzle, and small, triangular, erect ears. Their almond-shaped eyes are dark and lively, adding to their intelligent and friendly expression.

One of the breed‘s most distinctive features is their tightly curled tail, which is set high and carried over the back. According to the breed standard, males should stand 17-18.5 inches (43-47 cm) tall at the withers and weigh 31-40 pounds (14-18 kg), while females are slightly smaller at 16-17.5 inches (41-45 cm) and 26-35 pounds (12-16 kg).

Coat and Color

Norwegian Buhunds have a thick, weather-resistant double coat well-suited for cold climates. The outer coat is short and smooth on the head and front of the legs, and longer on the neck, chest, and back of thighs. A noticeable ruff frames the face and gives the breed their characteristic lion-like appearance. Tufts of hair, known as "harelike brushes," stand off the back of the ears. The undercoat is soft, dense, and varies in thickness depending on climate.

Buhunds come in two acceptable colors: wheaten and black. Wheaten encompasses any shade from pale cream to bright orange, with or without dark tipped hairs. A black mask, ears, and tips are desirable in the wheaten variety. The black color should be completely coal-black, although some white hairs are permitted on the chest, underside, and feet. A small, white star on the chest is allowed in both colors.

Grooming Needs

With their dense double coats, Norwegian Buhunds are moderate to heavy shedders. They "blow" their undercoat twice a year, usually in spring and fall, which requires daily brushing to keep loose hair under control. Weekly brushing is sufficient outside of shedding season.

A pin brush or slicker brush is effective for removing tangles and dead hair, while a wide-toothed comb can help redistribute skin oils and keep the coat shiny. Due to their naturally clean coat, Buhunds rarely need baths unless they get into something smelly. Overbathing can strip the coat of its protective oils.

Other grooming needs include regular nail trims, ear cleanings, and dental care. Nails should be trimmed every 1-2 months or as needed, and ears checked weekly for wax buildup, dirt, or signs of infection. Daily tooth brushing with a soft bristle brush and dog-safe toothpaste is ideal for preventing periodontal disease.

Personality and Temperament

Norwegian Buhunds are known for their lively, friendly, and curious nature. They bond closely with their humans and thrive on being part of all family activities. As a herding breed, they have a strong work ethic and enjoy having a job to do, whether it‘s rounding up kids, alerting to visitors, or competing in dog sports.

Buhunds are vigilant watchdogs with a strong sense of territory, making them excellent alarm dogs. They will bark to announce any unusual sounds or strangers, but are generally friendly once introduced. As with any guarding breed, early socialization is key to preventing excessive suspicion or shyness.

While not excessively vocal, Buhunds are far from silent. They are known to "talk" to their owners with grumbles, mumbles, yodels, and even howls when excited or trying to get their way. This talkative nature earned them the nickname "the barking bird dog" in Norway.

True to their spitz heritage, Norwegian Buhunds have an independent streak and can be stubborn at times. They require consistent, positive training from puppyhood to establish good manners and a respectful relationship. Like many intelligent breeds, Buhunds can be easily bored by repetitive training, so it‘s important to keep sessions short, fun, and rewarding.

Trainability and Intelligence

Norwegian Buhunds are highly intelligent dogs who excel in obedience, agility, rally, tracking, herding, and many other dog sports. They have a keen desire to please their owners and respond well to positive reinforcement techniques like clicker training, treats, and praise.

However, they can also be independent thinkers with a mind of their own. A firm but fair approach is necessary to establish leadership and prevent unwanted behaviors. Harsh corrections or punishment-based methods are counterproductive and can damage the trust between dog and owner.

Socialization is a crucial aspect of raising a well-rounded Buhund. Exposure to new people, animals, environments, and experiences from an early age helps them develop into confident, adaptable adult dogs. Puppy classes, dog parks, and regular outings are great ways to socialize a young Buhund.

With consistent training and socialization, Norwegian Buhunds can be wonderful family pets and thrive in active households. They get along well with children and other dogs, but their strong herding instincts may lead to chasing and nipping at heels. Supervision around young children and small pets is recommended.

Exercise and Activity Level

As a former farm dog bred for a variety of tasks, the Norwegian Buhund has high exercise needs. They require at least an hour of vigorous activity each day, broken up into several sessions. This can include brisk walks, jogging, hiking, swimming, fetch, or agility training.

Buhunds also need plenty of mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Puzzle toys, interactive games, and obedience training are great ways to challenge their active minds. They excel at nose work and tracking games, which tap into their natural hunting and foraging instincts.

Access to a securely fenced yard is ideal for Buhunds, as they love to run, play, and explore. However, they should never be left alone outside for long periods, as they may become bored, anxious, or destructive. Buhunds thrive on human companionship and do best when included in household activities.

While they are adaptable to various living situations, Norwegian Buhunds are not well-suited for apartment living unless their exercise needs are consistently met with long walks and trips to the dog park. They are also not ideal for sedentary owners or those who are away from home for extended periods.

Health and Lifespan

Norwegian Buhunds are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 12-15 years. However, like all purebred dogs, they are prone to certain genetic health conditions. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for these issues to minimize the risk of passing them on to puppies.

Some of the most common health concerns in Buhunds include:

• Hip Dysplasia: A hereditary condition that causes the hip joint to develop abnormally, leading to arthritis and lameness. Symptoms usually appear in adulthood and can be managed with weight control, exercise, and medication.

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A degenerative eye disorder that leads to gradual vision loss and blindness. Onset can occur anywhere from puppyhood to adulthood. There is no cure, but affected dogs can still lead happy lives with proper care and accommodations.

• von Willebrand‘s Disease (vWD): An inherited bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency in a protein necessary for blood clotting. Affected dogs may experience excessive bleeding from minor cuts, during surgery, or after giving birth. A DNA test is available to identify carriers and affected dogs.

Other less common health issues in the breed include hypothyroidism, patellar luxation, and Buhund-Poly Neuropathy. Regular check-ups, maintaining a healthy weight, and providing ample exercise and mental stimulation can help keep Buhunds in optimal health throughout their lives.

Feeding and Nutrition

Like all dogs, Norwegian Buhunds require a high-quality, balanced diet appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Whether feeding a commercial kibble, raw, or homemade diet, it‘s important to choose a formulation that meets AAFCO nutritional standards for canine health.

The amount of food a Buhund needs varies depending on their weight, metabolism, and energy output. A good starting point is 1-1.5 cups of kibble per day, divided into two meals. Puppies may need three to four smaller meals per day until they reach six months of age.

Buhunds are prone to obesity, so it‘s crucial to monitor their body condition and adjust portion sizes accordingly. A healthy Buhund should have a visible waist, tucked-up belly, and easily palpable ribs under a thin layer of fat. Avoid free-feeding or overindulging in treats, as excess weight can lead to joint problems, diabetes, and other health issues.

Fresh, clean water should be available at all times. Some Buhunds may benefit from raised food and water bowls to reduce neck strain and promote better digestion.

Buhund Fun Facts

• In Norse mythology, the god Odin had two loyal Buhund-like dogs named Geri and Freki, who accompanied him into battle and feasted at his feet in Valhalla.

• Norwegian Buhunds nearly went extinct in the early 20th century, but today several thousand exist in Norway and around the world. The Norwegian Buhund Club of America estimates there are around 1,000 Buhunds in the United States.

• The first Buhunds came to America in 1936 as a gift from the Norwegian Kennel Club to President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who had expressed admiration for the breed‘s role in Norwegian history.

• Characteristic "harelike brushes" of fur that stand off the tips of the ears are found behind newborn Buhund puppies‘ ears. These ear tufts help breeders identify true Buhunds from other similar spitz breeds in a litter.

• In their native Norway, Buhunds were often used as "napping cows" on farms. They would sleep with the cows at night, serving as a living alarm system against predators and intruders.

• Norwegian Buhunds are eligible to compete in AKC Herding events, a nod to their original purpose as all-around farm dogs. Some still serve as working farm and ranch dogs in Norway and beyond.

• Despite their small size, Buhunds have a big bark and a fearless nature. They won‘t hesitate to stand up to much larger dogs if they feel threatened or need to protect their territory.

Breed Comparison

Breed	Height	Weight	Lifespan	Traits	Origin
Norwegian Buhund	16-18.5 inches	26-40 pounds	12-15 years	Loyal, energetic, trainable	Norway
Icelandic Sheepdog	16-18 inches	20-30 pounds	12-14 years	Friendly, playful, alert	Iceland
Norwegian Elkhound	19.5-20.5 inches	48-55 pounds	12-15 years	Bold, independent, hardy	Norway
Swedish Vallhund	11.5-13.5 inches	20-35 pounds	12-15 years	Intelligent, sociable, watchful	Sweden

Conclusion

The Norwegian Buhund is a versatile, intelligent, and affectionate companion with a rich history as a Viking farm and hunting dog. While they may be small in stature, they have a big personality and an even bigger heart.

As with any breed, the Buhund has specific needs and characteristics that may not suit every lifestyle. They require plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent training to be well-behaved family members. Their independent nature and high energy level can be challenging for novice dog owners or those with limited time and space.

However, for experienced owners willing to put in the work, the Norwegian Buhund can be an incredibly rewarding and loyal companion. With their friendly nature, trainability, and adaptability, they excel in a variety of roles, from family pet to therapy dog to agility champion.

If you‘re looking for a lively, loving, and intelligent spitz breed with a unique history and personality, the Norwegian Buhund may be the perfect dog for you. As always, do your research, choose a reputable breeder, and be prepared to provide a lifetime of love, care, and companionship to your new furry friend.