All About Norsk Buhund, The Dog Of The Vikings

The Norsk Buhund, also known as the Norwegian Shepherd Dog , is a dog native to Northern Europe, in particular the Scandinavian countries. It belongs to the Spitz family and is a distant relative of the Icelandic Shepherd and the Jamthund. It is considered to be one of the oldest breeds in Western culture. Let’s find out everything there is to know about this medium-sized dog, docile and truly tireless.

The origins of Norsk buhund

The history of this interesting breed follows the myth of the existence of wolf dogs. According to what has been handed down, the first examples of Norsk buhund derived from the result of the natural crossing between the wolfhounds of the peat bogs. It is also believed that they were already known by the Vikings, given the references that Norse mythology offers regarding these animals.

In short, many are convinced that they are the living proof of the cross between dog and wolf. Historical records suggest that the bog wolfhound began accompanying humans who lived near the northern lakes more than 10,000 years ago.

Experts assure that the Norsk Buhund breed maintained its appearance and characteristics over the centuries. This means that it has managed to resist for over 6 thousand years.

Norsk Buhund: the oldest breed in Northern Europe

This ancient breed stands out in many respects. Its adaptation to coexistence with human beings is remarkable. So much so that his own evolution took place parallel to that of his  best friend .

In relation to its genetic inheritance markedly derived from the wolf, it is distinguished:

• Its temperate character.

• Ease of learning.
• Good coexistence with children.
• Devotion to work.

His name already indicates the fundamental purpose of his education. The term Buhund derives from the word “bu” which, in the Norwegian language, means farm, house, rural or mountain refuge. In short, this was the animal that cohabited in the place of residence of shepherds and peasants of Northern Europe  .

An excellent herding dog

The Norsk Buhund is the Norwegian Shepherd by definition. Throughout its history it has been used for grazing herds, as a guard dog in homes and has often grown  in contact with children.

For many years he was regarded as a country dog ​​and was on the verge of extinction. It was the time when the Nordic countries experienced a radical change after the industrial revolutions in Europe.

Only in the decade of the 1920s, when few Buhunds remained in the same native Norway, were incentives allocated for their protection and reproduction, finally managing to preserve the breed.

Currently, Norsk Buhund specimens can be found practically all over Europe. They continue to work as herding dogs but also for moose and deer hunting. Since they are perfectly suited to both  country and city life,  they are also popular as pets.

What are the main features of the Norsk Buhund?

In relation to the physique, we are talking about a specimen of medium size  with a square structure, strong and athletic physique with very robust legs. Its noble appearance recalls the characteristics of the wolf. It has a refined head, pointed nose and hairy ears that are straight and wider at the base.

The abundant fur, consisting of a double layer of hair, allows the animal to resist the cold temperatures of Northern Europe. If you live in cold areas and are looking for a good companion animal, you don’t need to know more. The hairs on the outer layer are long, thick and bright and can be cream, corn yellow or black.

They can present health and behavior problems when subjected to very high temperatures. Nonetheless, life expectancy is approaching 12 years. Compared to  specific care, this dog does not need too much dedication. Obviously, you will have to take care of better managing the thick fur: brush it frequently and, after washing, dry the dog completely, to avoid the accumulation of moisture, which favors the proliferation of microorganisms.

Some Norsk Buhund specimens may present with hip dysplasia in old age. Especially those who are engaged in heavier work.

His temperament is quite independent. Therefore, in order to perform more complex work, intense training is required to balance his strong instinct. It is packed with a  lot of energy and needs adequate space to run freely. The character is balanced, an advantage that makes this dog suitable for living with children.

The nobility of its temperament and the beauty of its appearance make the Norsk Buhund an interesting dog. Adopt one and, together with a beautiful gesture, you can have at home  one of the dogs used by the Vikings !