Is a Norwegian Buhund right for you?

The Norwegian Buhund belongs to a large class of dogs called the Spitz type.  They all have the pricked-up ears and a curled tail, in common.  There are many variations in size, coat and color among the Spitz breeds. 

In general, Norwegian Buhunds are mid-sized dogs that enjoy playing, herding, hiking, and agility.  They are very active and need some form of exercise on a daily basis.  The Buhund has a lot of energy and stamina.  Since Buhunds are extremely intelligent by nature, they require mental stimulation on a regular basis.  This self-appointed watch-dog is also content and pleased lying at your feet at the end of the day.  Buhunds are extremely vocal.  Their strong and intense bark travels far distances and is used for communication, and will bark to alert if an object is in motion....this includes cars, birds, etc..  Buhunds have a double-coat and usually have heavy seasonal shedding and well as a milder shed consistently.         

History of the Norwegian Buhund:

In the ancient Gokstad excavation in Norway, where a Viking grave from about the year 900 was opened, skeletons from six dogs of various sizes were found.  They would be the representatives of modern-day Buhunds.

When Vikings died, their most cherished and necessary possessions were buried alongside their owners.  This was to care for the Vikings in their afterlife.  Then these Buhunds who protected farms (bu) and herded cattle and sheep were expected to continue these duties in the afterlife.  It has been documented that these dogs traveled with Vikings on their many journeys, by sea and by land.

The more refined, beautiful type we see today were nurtured in the rainy western coast lands of Norway where they herded sheep and guarded farms.  Due to the initiative of Norway's state-counsel, John Saeland, the first Buhund show was held at Jaeren in the 1920's.  The Norsk Buhundklubb was established in 1939, and Toralf Raanaas was the first president.  These men selected the very best for show, breeding and workability.

Besides working ability, Buhunds are trained to aid the hearing handicapped, perform some types of police work, and score well in obedience and agility trials.  In the Buhunds history, they hunted bear and wolf, but today they work with livestock and guard home and family.   The Buhund is considered by many researchers to be the easiest of the Spitz breeds to train due to their innate desire to please plus a quick learning aptitude. Their Spitz independence is an asset if they have to be left alone for awhile.