Norwegian Buhunds: What's Good About 'Em, What's Bad About 'Em

The Norwegian Buhund is a happy-go-lucky dog who plays vigorously, yet is light on his feet and very agile. Because the Buhund was bred to work all day (he is a herding breed), you must provide plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation. Agility classes are a great outlet for his energy and enthusiasm. Also hiking, running at the dog park, and chasing balls and frisbees.

The Buhund is not a breed to leave alone all day. He likes to be at the center of his family, demanding (and offering) a great deal of companionship.

Most Norwegian Buhunds are polite (or a bit wary) with strangers. With their keen senses and watchful attitude, they make dependable alarm dogs – sometimes too dependable, i.e. barking can easily get out of control. To make matters worse, the Buhund has a rapid, high-pitched bark that can set your teeth on edge.

Norwegian Buhunds are usually fine with other family pets if raised with them.

This breed is less headstrong and more willing to work with you, compared with other spitz breeds. (A spitz is a type of dog with a thick furry coat, pricked ears, curled tail, and foxy face.) But he still has an independent mind of his own, and may use his intelligence in clever ways that suit his own purposes. Yet owners who know how to lead will find him eminently trainable.

If you want a dog who...

Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training.

• You can avoid some negative traits by choosing an ADULT dog from an animal shelter or rescue group. With an adult dog, you can easily see what you're getting, and plenty of adult Norwegian Buhunds have already proven themselves not to have negative characteristics.
• If you want a puppy, you can avoid some negative traits by choosing the right breeder and the right puppy. Unfortunately, you usually can't tell whether a puppy has inherited temperament or health problems until he grows up.
• Finally, you can avoid some negative traits by training your Norwegian Buhund to respect you and by following the 11-step care program in my book, 11 Things You Must Do Right To Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy.

More traits and characteristics of the Norwegian Buhund

If I was considering a Norwegian Buhund, I would be most concerned about...

1. Providing enough exercise and mental stimulation. Norwegian Buhunds are not couch potatoes who are content to hang around with nothing to do. These herding dogs need regular opportunities to vent their energy and do interesting things. Otherwise they will become bored, which they usually express by chewing destructively and barking.

   

2. Providing enough socialization. Standoffish by nature, Norwegian Buhunds need extensive exposure to people and to unusual sights and sounds. Otherwise their natural caution can become suspiciousness.
3. Barking. I've mentioned this trait several times, for a reason. Norwegian Buhunds are vocal dogs! Their intense, high-pitched bark and keen watchfulness means you cannot leave this breed outside without supervision. Your neighbors will either call the police, or quietly let your Buhund out of his yard to get lost.
4. Shedding. Like all spitz breeds with a thick double coat, Norwegian Buhunds shed a good deal. Be sure you're okay with this.
5. Mind of their own. Although very trainable in the right hands, Norwegian Buhunds have an independent mind of their own and are not pushovers to raise and train. You must show them, through absolute consistency, that you mean what you say.

   To teach your Buhund to listen to you, "Respect Training" is mandatory. Read more about Norwegian Buhund Training.

6. Finding one and paying the price. In the United States, a Norwegian Buhund is hard to find and expensive.