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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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Norwegian Buhund dog profile picture
OriginNorway flagNorway
Other Names
What other names does the Norwegian Buhund have?
Norwegian SheepdogNorsk Buhund
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Norwegian Buhund Size and Weight

Size
Is a Norwegian Buhund small, medium or large dog?

How big do Norwegian Buhund get?

What is the average size of a Norwegian Buhund?

Medium
Weight
How much does the Norwegian Buhund weigh? How much should a Norwegian Buhund weight? What is the normal weight of a Norwegian Buhund? How much does a full-grown Norwegian Buhund weight?
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
How much does the Norwegian Buhund puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Norwegian Buhund in the United States? How much money is a Norwegian Buhund?

Where to buy a Norwegian Buhund with a good pedigree?

$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

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Norwegian Buhund? Is the Norwegian Buhund breed dumb or smart?
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.

Trainability
Are Norwegian Buhund dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Norwegian Buhund?
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 Ability
Is Norwegian Buhund good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
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.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Norwegian Buhund dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
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

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Norwegian Buhund have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
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

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Norwegian Buhund is a highly playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do Norwegian Buhund dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Norwegian Sheepdog bark?
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.

Apartment Friendly
Is Norwegian Buhund good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Norwegian Buhund in an apartment?
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

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
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.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Norwegian Buhund be left alone? How long can you leave a Norwegian Buhund alone?
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 Force PSI
Does the Norwegian Buhund has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Norwegian Buhund? How much bite force does a Norwegian Buhund have? How strong is a Norwegian Buhund bite?

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.

Biting Potential
Do Norwegian Buhund bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Norwegian Sheepdog? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Norwegian Buhund? Why do dog bites happen?

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.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Norwegian Buhund do?
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.

Norwegian Buhund Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Norwegian Buhund dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Norwegian Buhunds tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds. Regular vet check-ups are needed.
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
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Norwegian Buhund breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Norwegian Buhund see the vet?
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.
Life Expectancy
How long do Norwegian Buhund dogs live? How old can a Norwegian Buhund be? What is the age limit of the Norwegian Buhund? How many years can the oldest Norwegian Buhund live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Norwegian Buhund?

How long is the lifespan of a Norwegian Buhund?

13-15 years
The average lifespan of Norwegian Buhund: 14 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
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.

Norwegian Buhund Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Norwegian Buhund have? What is the activity level of the Norwegian Buhund?
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

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Norwegian Buhund need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Norwegian Buhund breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Norwegian Buhund? How much food should I feed my Norwegian Buhund?
1 to 2 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Norwegian Buhund risk for obesity:
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.

Norwegian Buhund Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Norwegian Buhund have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
Dense
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Norwegian Buhund coats?
BlackWheaten
Grooming
How to groom the Norwegian Buhund and how often? How often should I take my Norwegian Buhund to the groomer?
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.
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.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Norwegian Buhund need a bath? How often should you give a Norwegian Buhund a bath? Can I bathe my Norwegian Buhund every day?
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.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Norwegian Buhund breed hypoallergenic?
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.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

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.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Norwegian Buhund drool?
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.

Norwegian Buhund Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Norwegian Buhund dogs get along with other pets? Are Norwegian Buhund dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
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.
Child Friendly
Are Norwegian Buhund dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Norwegian Buhund temperament with children:
Norwegian Buhund dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
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
Are they good as service dogs? Can Norwegian Buhund be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

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 Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Norwegian Buhund be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Norwegian Buhund be an emotional support animal?

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.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Norwegian Buhund be a sniffer dog?

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 and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Norwegian Buhund be a search and rescue dog?

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.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Norwegian Buhund be a boat dog?

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.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Norwegian Buhund be a drafting dog?

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.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Norwegian Buhund dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

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

Norwegian Buhund Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Norwegian Buhund pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Norwegian Buhund breed is pregnant?

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.

Litter Frequency

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.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Norwegian Buhund have in a litter? How many puppies can the Norwegian Buhund breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Norwegian Buhund have? How many puppies can a Norwegian Buhund give birth to?
4-8 puppies

Norwegian Buhund Recognition

AKC Group
Is Norwegian Buhund recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2009 as a Herding breed.
FCI Group
Is Norwegian Buhund recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Spitz and primitive types group, in the Nordic Watchdogs and Herders section.

Norwegian Buhund Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Grooming: Effortless: The Norwegian Buhund requires minimal grooming.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Norwegian Buhund is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Watchdog Ability: Norwegian Buhund dogs are good watchdogs.
  • Adaptability: Norwegian Buhund dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Friendly: 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
  • Intelligent Rank: Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
  • Health Issues: Norwegian Buhunds tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds.
  • Hypoallergenic: Norwegian Buhund dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Friendly: 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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