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Norwegian Buhund Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Norwegian Buhund so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Pastoral / Herding Dogs
Popularity Rank170
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OriginNorway flagNorway
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a Norwegian Buhund known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed.
Norwegian SheepdogNorsk Buhund
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Norwegian Buhund? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Purebred

Norwegian Buhund Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Norwegian Buhund? Learn how big the Norwegian Buhund breed typically grows.
Medium
Weight Statistics
How much does a Norwegian Buhund weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Norwegian Buhund breed.
Male: 31-40 pounds (14-18 kg), Female: 26½-35½ pounds (12-16 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Norwegian Buhund?
Male: 35.5 pounds (16 kg), Female: 26.5-35.5 pounds (14 kg)
Height
How tall is the Norwegian Buhund? Norwegian Buhund height:
Male: 17-18.5 inches (43-47 cm), Female: 16-17.5 inches (41-45 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Norwegian Buhund?
Male: 17-18½ inches (45 cm), Female: 16-17½ inches (43 cm)

Norwegian Buhund Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does a Norwegian Buhund puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Norwegian Buhund costs.
$800-$1000
If you choose to purchase the Norwegian Buhund, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Norwegian Buhund for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Norwegian Buhund gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Norwegian Buhund? How many Norwegian Buhund are there in the world?
Frequent: The Norwegian Buhund is easier than average to get. Maybe there is some risk of overbreeding, as it is a popular breed.

Due to its popularity, inbreeding may occur. A new study shows that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful and seek the help of an experienced person or a professional, in making your decision.

Norwegian Buhund Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Norwegian Buhund? Discover the Norwegian Buhund's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one. Keep in mind that if you want to teach them any tricks, they understand and memorize new commands in 40-80 repetitions. Norwegian Buhund obey the first command 30% of the time or better. So if you want to have a smart dog, you might have to reconsider your choice with this breed.

The Norwegian Buhund ranks below average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Norwegian Buhund? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's trainability and response to training methods.
Norwegian Buhund dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Norwegian Buhund as a watchdog? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's alertness and guarding instincts.
Norwegian Buhund dogs are good watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're consistent in their effort. Good vocal cords and a sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're territorial and protective about their property, so the Norwegian Buhund dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Territorial Protection
Is a Norwegian Buhund protective of its territory? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's guarding instincts and behavior.
Norwegian Buhund dogs are average defenders. Some dogs are very protective of their territory, while others easily let a stranger to trespass. This breed is not sure to defend its territory in every situation.

Norwegian Buhund Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does a Norwegian Buhund have? Learn about characteristic Norwegian Buhund temperament and behavior traits.
FunnyLovingAgileEnergeticCourageousFriendly
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Norwegian Buhund sensitivity:
Norwegian Buhund dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. Sometimes it's okay to change the daily routine, have guests and listen to loud music.

Some dogs handle moderate punishment very well, while others crumble apart at a dirty look. This breed is not affected emotionally by moderate punishment.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Norwegian Buhund a good family dog?
High: Norwegian Buhund dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Norwegian Sheepdog need? Norwegian Buhund social needs:
Norwegian Buhund dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Norwegian Buhund to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Norwegian Buhund roam?
The wanderlust potential of the Norwegian Buhund is strong enough to escape from home. They have a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Norwegian Buhund have high prey drive?
Norwegian Buhund dogs have low to an average impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals.

Norwegian Buhund Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does a Norwegian Buhund bark a lot? Learn about typical Norwegian Buhund vocalization patterns and triggers.
A lot: Norwegian Buhund is a particularly loud breed. They often enjoy barking and howling loudly. If you want a quiet dog, not the best choice.

The main triggers for barking are fear, attention, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking, and defense.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Norwegian Buhund? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Norwegian Buhund breed.
The Norwegian Buhund is a highly playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Norwegian Buhund live in an apartment? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's suitability for apartment living.
It is not recommended to keep the Norwegian Buhund breed in the home. It does best in the garden, but if you do want to keep it indoors, it should be exercised thoroughly with long daily walks, so you can keep the Norwegian Buhund indoors by introducing daily routines.

Norwegian Buhund Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Norwegian Buhund to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's flexibility to new situations.
Norwegian Buhund dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Norwegian Buhund be left alone? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's tolerance to solitude.
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Norwegian Buhund Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Norwegian Buhund biting potential? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's bite risk factors.

Low 🔽

The Norwegian Buhund has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Norwegian Buhund mouthy? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's tendency to use mouth during play.
Norwegian Buhund dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Norwegian Buhund dogs need to be taught a good attitude.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Norwegian Buhund bite? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's bite force measured in PSI.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Norwegian Buhund bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Norwegian Buhund measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Norwegian Buhund is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Norwegian Buhund bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Norwegian Buhund bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Norwegian Buhund puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Norwegian Buhund, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Norwegian Buhund bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Norwegian Buhund can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Norwegian Buhund Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Norwegian Buhund live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Norwegian Buhund breed.
13-15 years
The average lifespan of Norwegian Buhund: 14 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Norwegian Buhund handle different weather? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's climate adaptability.
Prefers cold weather
The Norwegian Buhund can adapt well to harsh weather conditions, and also can be a good mountain dog. Dogs can suffer from frostbite and hypothermia in extremely cold weather, so it is important to take precautions to keep your dog safe and comfortable during the winter months.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Norwegian Buhund? Discover typical conditions affecting the Norwegian Buhund breed.
Norwegian Buhunds tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds. Regular vet check-ups are needed.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Norwegian Buhund need vet visits? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's veterinary care requirements.
Frequent
The Norwegian Buhund should have a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Norwegian Buhund breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Norwegian Buhund breed? Most common health risks of Norwegian Buhund:
Eye Problems Hip Dysplasia Von Willebrand's Disease

Norwegian Buhund Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Norwegian Buhund? Understand daily activity needs of the Norwegian Buhund breed.
Norwegian Buhund dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn't the perfect choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Norwegian Buhund need? How much exercise do Norwegian Buhund dogs require per day?

Do Norwegian Buhund dogs need a lot of exercises?

Norwegian Buhund dogs need a lot of exercises. Long walks should be on a daily schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Norwegian Buhund breed need?
Norwegian Buhund dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

Norwegian Buhund Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is a Norwegian Buhund prone to weight gain? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's obesity risks.
Average: The Norwegian Buhund has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Norwegian Buhund weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Norwegian Buhund need daily? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's feeding requirements.
1 to 2 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Norwegian Buhund Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Norwegian Buhund hypoallergenic? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's suitability for allergy sufferers.
No
Norwegian Buhund dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Norwegian Buhund come in? Discover all possible Norwegian Buhund color variations.
BlackWheaten
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Norwegian Buhund need? Learn about Norwegian Buhund coat maintenance requirements.
Effortless: The Norwegian Buhund requires minimal grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned sometimes to avoid infections. Norwegian Buhund is one of the best choices if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Highly recommended for beginners.
Drooling Tendency
Does a Norwegian Buhund drool a lot? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's drooling habits.
The Norwegian Buhund is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Norwegian Buhund could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Norwegian Buhund.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Norwegian Buhund smell bad? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's natural odor levels.

Medium

The Norwegian Buhund has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Norwegian Buhund have? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's fur characteristics.
Dense
Bathing Needs
How often does a Norwegian Buhund need baths? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's bathing requirements.
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. According to a study, 56% of pet parents don’t bathe their dogs as frequently as they should, and 60% use the sniff test when deciding when it’s bath time.

Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

Shedding Level
How much do Norwegian Buhund dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Norwegian Sheepdog? Do Norwegian Buhund dogs shed a lot?
Norwegian Buhund dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.

Norwegian Buhund Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Norwegian Buhund good with children? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's behavior around kids of different ages.
Norwegian Buhund dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Norwegian Buhund get along with other pets? Discover the Norwegian Buhund's compatibility with other animals.
Norwegian Buhund dogs are one of the friendliest dog breeds.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Norwegian Buhund temperament with other people:
Norwegian Buhund dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Cat Friendly
How well do Norwegian Buhund dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Norwegian Buhund breed live with a cat?
Norwegian Buhund dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Norwegian Buhund good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Norwegian Buhund dogs get along with other dogs?
Norwegian Buhund dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Norwegian Buhund breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Norwegian Buhund breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Norwegian Buhund dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Norwegian Buhund dogs good office canines? Do Norwegian Buhund dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
Yes
Norwegian Buhund is one of the best dog breeds for office environment
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Norwegian Buhund dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Norwegian Sheepdog temperament with senior people? Are Norwegian Buhund dogs good for elderly owners?
Norwegian Buhunds are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

Norwegian Buhund As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can a Norwegian Buhund be a service dog? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's service work potential.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Norwegian Buhund is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Norwegian Buhund good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's therapy work aptitude.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Norwegian Buhund is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Norwegian Buhund good at detection work? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Norwegian Buhund is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Norwegian Buhund do search and rescue? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's SAR capabilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Norwegian Buhund is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Norwegian Buhund good on boats? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's maritime capabilities.

Not really

Norwegian Buhund breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Norwegian Buhund pull carts? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's drafting abilities.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Norwegian Buhund is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was a Norwegian Buhund used in military service? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's military history.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Norwegian Buhund Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Norwegian Buhund usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
4-8 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Norwegian Buhund pregnant? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Norwegian Buhund: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Norwegian Buhund have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

Norwegian Buhund Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Norwegian Buhund in? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's AKC classification.
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2009 as a Herding breed.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Norwegian Buhund in? Learn about the Norwegian Buhund's international classification.
Recognized by FCI in the Spitz and primitive types group, in the Nordic Watchdogs and Herders section.

Norwegian Buhund Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Grooming Requirements: Effortless: The Norwegian Buhund requires minimal grooming.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Norwegian Buhund is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Watchdog Rating: Norwegian Buhund dogs are good watchdogs.
  • Lifestyle Adaptability: Norwegian Buhund dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Compatibility: Norwegian Buhund dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
  • Cat Friendly: Norwegian Buhund dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Norwegian Buhund is one of the best dog breeds for office environment
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Norwegian Buhunds are one of the best breeds for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Norwegian Buhund dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Intelligence Rating: Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
  • Health Concerns: Norwegian Buhunds tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds.
  • Allergy Friendliness: Norwegian Buhund dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Adaptability: It is not recommended to keep the Norwegian Buhund breed in the home.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: The wanderlust potential of the Norwegian Buhund is strong enough to escape from home.

Norwegian Buhund History

The breed’s origin leads us back to ancient times when dogs sailed seas and traveled with the invaders of Norway, the Vikings in 900 a.d. The remains of spitz-type dogs have been found in Viking graves and in the oldest archaeological sites in Norway. According to ancient paganist beliefs, the dogs were buried with the Vikings after their death, with the purpose of continuing their various duties in the afterlife, serving their owners even beyond the grave.

The breed’s traits are very similar to the Icelandic Sheepdog’s, they were both bred to be farm dogs serving as herders, guardians of owners and property, and all-purpose farmhands. In fact, the breed got its name from the Norwegian word “bu” meaning “farm”, thus its name basically translates as “farm-dog” in the local language. The Norwegian Buhund is also known as the Norwegian Sheepdog or as Norsk Buhund.

The Buhund remained an indispensable member of the Norwegian farm life for centuries, but in the early 1900s, the import of other similar herding breeds caused the decrease of their population. Yet, despite this decline, in the breed’s homeland, Norway, farmers still use the breed as general farm dogs. In most areas, every farm had Buhunds to herd and watch over the pigs, reindeer, sheep, cattle, and various livestock. The shepherds spent the summers in mountains with the herd, and they brought their dogs to watch over them. The dogs had to work independently to gather stock, because the land was usually rocky, with steep slopes. They gathered easily the flock finding and flushing them by barking, they even walked on the sheep’s backs to get from one side of the flock to the other.

The breed was first shown in 1913 in an agricultural show, after that in the 1920s, multiple shows dedicated just for the Buhunds were held with state-run sheep and goat shows, in order to rekindle interest in farmers for the breed.

The Norsk Buhund Club was founded in 1939. After World War II., the breed was exported to England and later to the United States. In America, the Norwegian Buhund Club was formed in 1983. In 2004, the AKC (American Kennel Club) recognized the breed and the Buhund became a member of the AKC Herding group.

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