Norwegian Buhund

The Norwegian Buhund is a compact farm spitz — bu means homestead, and the breed did whatever the farm required.

History

It has been in Norway since the Viking age; buhunds have been found in Viking ship burials, placed there to accompany their owners. On the farm it herded sheep and cattle, guarded the buildings and worked as a general help, and it remains a versatile working spitz rather than a specialist.

Temperament

The breed is known for being cheerful, energetic and highly trainable for a spitz, affectionate with its family, alert to arrivals and inclined to announce them at length.

Care and training

It needs substantial exercise and mental work. The barking needs shaping early — it is enthusiastic. The double coat sheds heavily twice a year and needs little else.

Health

Generally healthy, with hip dysplasia and hereditary eye conditions among the known tendencies. These are patterns for the breed rather than a forecast for one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.