Norwegian Buhund: description of the breed. Encyclopedia about pets

The Norwegian Buhund is a service dog belonging to the group of Kamchatka, Siberian and Greenland Shepherds. These animals were bred specifically to work on the farm. Therefore, they easily cope with the role of a shepherd or watchman. After reading today's article, you will learn about the main features of representatives of this breed.

Brief historical background

The Buhund, or Norwegian husky, is considered one of the oldest Scandinavian dogs. In 1880, a Viking burial was found on the territory of Gokstad. Along with them, six dog skeletons of varying sizes were unearthed. It is these animals that are considered to be the ancestors of modern bukhunds.

The Vikings used these dogs to guard livestock and protect their homes. They also hunted wolves and bears with them. These northern dogs followed their owners everywhere, accompanying them not only on land, but also at sea. Over time, they found their way to Ireland, Greenland and Scotland. According to one theory, the ancestors of modern Buhunds were Sheltie and

The first official exhibition in which representatives of this breed participated was organized by John Sealand. It took place in the 20s of the 20th century in the Norwegian town of Jøren. Several decades later, the breed was recognized by the United Kennel Club.

Exterior Features

The Buhund, or Norwegian Shepherd, is a strong, compact dog with a square format. On the dry, pointed head are dark, small eyes and pointed, erect ears. The massive short neck of this breed smoothly flows into a strong, well-defined withers and straight back.

The dog has a dense, muscular body with a deep chest and tucked belly. Under the harmoniously built body there are dry and strong limbs with oval paws. The dog's high-set short tail is curled into a ring and laid on its back. The height of an adult animal ranges from 41 to 47 centimeters. At the same time, the Norwegian Buhund weighs on average 12-18 kilograms.

Representatives of this breed are covered with thick, hard, tight-fitting hair. The wheat color of the animals varies from light cream to a reddish hue. The standard allows for a dark mask and the same tips of guard hairs.

Character

They are brave, playful and friendly dogs. They are distinguished by their independent character with well-developed hunting instincts. Therefore, the typical Norwegian husky is wary of unfamiliar people and animals. These are very vigilant dogs, always ready to rush to protect their “pack”.

Representatives of this breed make excellent guide dogs and companions. Despite their friendly and affectionate disposition, emotional bukhunds instantly react to any extraneous sounds. Therefore, they are often used as guards. They become very attached to their owners and need constant communication with people. The Norwegian Buhund retains a mischievous and playful character until old age. He treats children well, but in a fit of emotion he can accidentally turn the baby over.

In general, these are dominant animals with well-developed possessive instincts. They are not aggressive towards their fellow dogs, but may be averse to some other dogs.

The Norwegian Buhund is a very clean animal with virtually no specific odor. It is equally well suited for aviary and apartment keeping. The average life expectancy of representatives of this breed is 13-15 years.

These unpretentious dogs do not require complex care. It is enough to comb them a couple of times a week with a special brush. You should also periodically clean their ears and trim their nails. It is recommended to bathe such dogs as needed. It is advisable to do this no more than twice a year.

Buhunds living in city apartments require regular physical activity. You can practice obedience or agility with them. These cheerful and active dogs are distinguished by good health. But, like any other living beings, they are prone to various diseases. Some of the most common health problems associated with this breed include ear infections, epilepsy, and hip dysplasia. Norwegian Buhunds are also prone to eye diseases.

The Norwegian Buhund is one of the most ancient dog breeds. Translated from Norwegian, “buhund” means “peasant dog” - initially they were kept and bred exclusively by peasants. According to one version, Bukhunds originated from Norwegian Spitz dogs. Representatives of this breed performed any work on the farm. They guarded the house and the plot, protecting it from the invasion of strangers, grazed herds of cattle, herded deer, and harnessed themselves to sled dogs. The Norwegian Buhund served as the basis for the creation of another breed - the Icelandic dog. In the 20s of the 20th century, the breed became widespread in Great Britain. However, with rare exceptions, Buhunds were practically not exported from Norway - which means they are little known outside its borders.

The Norwegian Buhund is characterized by energy, endurance, vigilance and a love of herding. He is ready to herd anything that moves: cattle, small farm animals, pets and even people.

In order to stay in shape, the Norwegian Buhund needs long, active walks. He has a huge amount of strength and energy, an excess of which a dog cannot get rid of in a city apartment or while walking at a stadium. However, it is possible to keep a Norwegian Buhund in an apartment. It is only necessary to constantly give him significant physical activity. The dog is very hardworking and will happily take on the task.

Norwegian Buhunds are non-aggressive and have a positive attitude towards members of the family in which they live. They love children and enjoy taking part in their noisy games. But they don’t favor strangers. The guardian instinct inherent in the Norwegian Buhund makes them aggressive towards anyone who violates the boundaries of “their” territory.

The dog is easy to train and is suitable for participation in exhibitions and competitions.

FCI breed standard No. 237:

Characteristics of the breed. Adapted to life in nature, a very energetic and courageous dog, very independent. She is calm, friendly and cheerful, making her an excellent family dog. If the situation calls for it, she is aggressive and is therefore considered a good watchdog. Endowed with an outstanding sense of smell, which she uses when hunting birds.

Usage. Herding dog (deer, sheep), guard dog, universal service dog, companion dog.

Head. Wedge-shaped, dry. The skull is almost flat. The transition from forehead to muzzle is marked. The bridge of the nose is straight. The muzzle is short, tapering towards the nose. Lips tightly fitting.

Eyes. Dark. Must match the color of the dog.

Ears. Pointed, held strictly vertically.

Frame. Short, compact. The neck is dry and rather short. The chest is deep. The ribs are well sprung. The back is straight and strong. The lower back is strong.

Limbs. Lean, muscular, with strong bones. The paws are compact, oval in shape.

Tail. Set on high. The dog keeps it tightly rolled into a ring above his back. Covered with thick hair.

Hairline. The coat is thick, dense, hard, and close-fitting. On the head and front surface of the limbs - short, on the neck and front of the chest - longer. The undercoat is soft, thick, fluffy.

Color. Red (from light red to golden red, a mask is possible) or pure black. White markings on the front of the chest, a collar on the neck and small spots on the paws are acceptable.

Height at withers. Males: 43 - 47 cm. Females: 41 -45 cm.

Weight. Males: 14-18 kg. Females: 12 - 16 kg.

The Norwegian Husky or Buhund is incredibly adorable. This is a multifunctional dog, whose name slightly reveals the whole mysterious origin story - “Boo” in Norwegian means hut or farm, and “hund” means dog.

It is difficult to imagine a more multi-talented animal, and besides, the Buhund is endowed with a wonderful and interesting character. But first things first.

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Classmates

Story

Our hero belongs to one of the oldest groups called “Laika”. This is a whole list of aboriginal breeds endowed with devotion to humans and excellent working characteristics.

Throughout their history, they accompanied their owners on the hunt, protecting them from predatory animals and helping them get food, protecting a person’s property, home and family. Buhund was often used as a sled dog. But the main advantages of the dog lay in its hunting abilities.

The Norwegian Laika coped well even with hunting bears and wolves. In 1880, an interesting find was discovered in Norway. On a ship that once belonged to the ancient Vikings, six skeletons of dogs were found; after careful analysis, it was determined that these were the remains of the ancestors of our heroes. Spread to other European countries began in the seventh century. The Norwegian Buhund began to win the love of the inhabitants of Iceland and Greenland.

It almost immediately began to be considered a separate breed, although it first appeared at the exhibition only in 1939. Already in 1963, the International Canine Federation included them in its register at number 237. The Buhund also had great success in Great Britain, where the Northern Laika variety was also adopted by the British Kennel Club.

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Standard

The Norwegian Husky has many similarities in appearance description with other representatives of the group. They have clearly expressed sexual dimorphism. External differences between a male and a female are visible to the naked eye. Exist the following accepted standards:

• The head has a wedge-shaped format, almost flat, dry without skin folds.
• The nose is pigmented in black.
• The lips and eyelids are also painted black.
• The eyes are oval, slightly slanted. The iris is always a dark palette.
• Jaw with scissor bite.
• The neck is well defined, not too long, strong and mobile.
• Strong and straight back.
• The tail is typical for a Laika - high set, curled into a ring and folded over the back, slightly turned to the side.
• The limbs are muscular and smooth.
• The height at the withers can reach forty-seven centimeters.
• The average weight is fifteen kilograms.
• The coat is coarse and of medium length. It is slightly shorter on the muzzle and front side of the limbs, but longer on the chest, neck and tail. There is a warm, dense undercoat.
• The color is predominantly wheaten or black.

Description of the breed

Our heroes truly Scandinavian character. It was not for nothing that they were the ones who kept the Vikings company on long voyages. They are very brave, loyal, friendly and cheerful. Their endurance and active lifestyle require constant walks and games with their owner.

The pet is impeccable in relation to its owners. He is very patient, helpful, affectionate and has a need for communication. He loves children very much and treats them with protective love. Ready to constantly support the child in all kinds of games and pranks. Perfect as a family pet. The Buhund is also still used as a hunter.

This is such a versatile dog that it is difficult to imagine any use for which it would not be capable.

He feels comfortable outside during the cold season and is able to spend the winter in an enclosure. You should not make a mansion that is too spacious for your pet, as it will be uncomfortable for him. A small enclosure with a designated area for eating and a small booth is the best housing option for our Norwegian four-legged friends.

A born guard he will happily patrol the territory and warn of the approach of strangers. Affectionate towards people he knows, he is very suspicious of everyone else. There is no need to tease or immediately establish a familiar relationship with the Buhund, as he does not like this and may react accordingly.

As for training, it is important not to overestimate your own strengths. The dog is quite stubborn and willful; if you are new to dog breeding, then immediately trust the professionals. At the same time, she is very smart and will be able to quickly learn the necessary commands if she is captivated and interested in the process.

Before starting the educational process, you should decide for what purposes you will need the help of your four-legged friend. A watchman, a pet, and a professional hunter learn different commands, and the educational process for each is developed individually.

Grooming is required only during the period of active shedding. But even then everything is limited to brushing twice a week. The dogs are very clean and are able to take care of themselves. To get rid of lost hair, you can buy a pet using a specialized shampoo and be sure to dry it well after taking the water procedure.

Be careful of drafts when swimming. Periodically clean your eyes and ears, and ensure that plaque is removed from your teeth in a timely manner. If necessary, cut off the claws. The dog is capable of grinding them off on his own, but when kept in an apartment or closed enclosure, his capabilities are limited.

average life expectancy Bukhundov is fifteen years. Northern huskies are not compromised by their health; they are quite hardy and can easily acclimatize in any region. If you carefully monitor and care for your pet, it will be able to stay with you for a longer period. It is important to get the necessary vaccinations and undergo timely preventive examinations with a veterinarian.

Feeding

Food is a very important element for a healthy and proper lifestyle. To prevent an allergic reaction, always adhere to the rule that food intended for humans is not suitable for your four-legged friend.

• smoked meats and sausages,
• salty and spoiled food,
• any sweets, especially chocolate,
• small bones,
• bread and flour products,
• pasta.

Meat should be frozen first to kill the bacteria living on it. If you give raw vegetables and fruits, be sure to wash them. It is recommended to give buckwheat and rice as cereals. Along with the porridge, you can serve stewed or raw meat, vegetables and even dry food. Choose only premium food. Before purchasing, review the list of ingredients and pay attention to the expiration date.

Price

The Norwegian Buhund is not a common breed in Russia, so finding a suitable kennel will not be easy, but it is possible. The main thing is to approach this task responsibly and check the breeder for reviews about him on the Internet.

Puppy price starts from thirty thousand rubles and can reach up to fifty, depending on the characteristics of the baby and his pedigree.

Beware of scammers who are ready to sell you a dog of a non-purebred breed. Often on the Internet you can come across advertisements offering low prices, most likely they are talking about mestizos.

Since ancient times in Norway, the way of life of local residents required that not only people, but also dogs look after the house and livestock. Therefore, a dog breed that meets these conditions and requirements naturally appeared - the Norwegian Buhund ( Norwegian Husky, Norwegian Shepherd, norwegian buhund).

The name, in turn, reflects the main duty of the animals. Buhund means "peasant dog". Dogs of the Buhund breed herded sheep, guarded the house and their owners, and were devoted and faithful for centuries. Norwegian Buhunds were once brought to Iceland to develop the Icelandic breed. The general public became aware of the Norwegian Buhund only at the beginning of the 20th century, and it was officially registered only in the middle of the 20th century.

The friendly nature of the dog had a major influence on the widespread spread of the breed. It is known that dogs have a fairly high intelligence, which naturally developed historically, due to the survival of more intelligent species and the need to often perform the human functions of shepherds.

Appearance and use of the breed

The standard appearance of the dog is very cute. This is a medium-sized athletic dog with a square profile and a tightly curled tail that rises above the center line of the back. The head is wedge-shaped with alert ears and a black nose. The height at the withers of the representatives of the breed is about 40-45 centimeters, weight up to 18 kg, wheaten color - any shade from pale cream to bright orange. Dogs are very hardy and strong, they can withstand any weather, and as a result, live not only in the house, but also on the street.

In addition to herding skills, buhundas are excellent at hunting and home guarding. Again thanks to high intelligence, chu such hearing, alertness and smell. Easy-going disposition and trainability help make the dog not only a good hunting, herding and guard dog, but also a companion dog. The “universal” Buhund is suitable for almost any job: driving and grazing livestock, guarding the yard, babysitting children, and in its homeland, in some cases, it is even used as a sled dog.

Character, care and maintenance

Representatives of the breed can be kept not only on the street (which, however, is desirable), but also at home, without fear for furniture and small children. With proper upbringing, animals behave very well, and for a child the dog will become a real protector and friend. It is surprising that rather large and seemingly dangerous representatives of the breed, capable of protecting, in the rarest cases can show some kind of aggression towards their owners. The disadvantages of the breed include seasonal heavy shedding, which requires serious care. Also, the nature of the Buhund requires constant socialization. Dogs of this breed do not tolerate loneliness and long separations. They get along well with their relatives and other animals if they grew up with them.

An ideal breed for country life in the country, in the countryside and on the farm. However, it can also take root in the city, but requires sufficient attention. In addition to regular grooming, your dog needs to be given long walks and exercise.

Why is it better not to pamper the Norwegian Buhund and who is he anyway, why will you love the fluffy Dandie Dinmont Terrier and whether the Glen of Imaal Terrier will be quite touching - read in this collection about unusual and not often mentioned dog breeds.

1. Norwegian Buhund

The Norwegian husky, whose height rarely reaches more than half a meter, will become your faithful friend and reliable guard, who, by the way, gets along well with children. These are reliable, intelligent, quick-witted and people-friendly dogs.

Norwegian Buhunds have endurance and good health, they feel more comfortable in winter, just like other Scandinavian breeds. Their double thick, water-repellent coat helps them withstand slush and frost; on hot days, dogs prefer to rest in the shade.

2. Dandie Dinmont Terrier

A miniature shaggy dog ​​with an elongated body, shaggy head and short legs. Very kind, cheerful dogs. Loyal to their owner, very gentle and affectionate. By the way, they were nicknamed the gentlemen among terriers.

The breed was bred artificially. Bedlington Terriers and Skye Terriers took part in the crossing. Initially, these dogs were created as hunting dogs, so they were given all the necessary characteristics for this: speed of movement and reaction, compact size, and so on. Today they have become quite common pets.

Her height barely reaches twenty-eight centimeters, her weight is ten kilograms. There are two main colors of such dogs - mustard and pepper.

3. Glen of Imaal Terrier

Irish terrier breed of medium size. Usually obedient, but if you push him, he will bark. Very hardy. But keep an eye on the health of such a dog - some may have problems with the eyes or heart.

An adult Glen of Imaal Terrier weighs approximately 16 kg (35 lb) and measures 35.5 cm (14 in) at the withers. The breed is characterized by medium-length wool, usually wheat or bluish in color. Possible brindle color or blue and red. The head is large. The legs are short and squat.

The Glen of Imaal Terrier is usually docile. Aggression can sometimes be caused by provocations. There have been no reports of serious injuries caused by this breed.

4. Tibetan Spaniel

They were guards in Tibetan monasteries. Proud stately dog. They are stubborn and independent, but at the same time very sweet. Strangers are shunned.

Along with the chained Tibetan mastiffs, the dogs served as guards: lying on the walls of the monastery, they watched the surrounding area and when strangers appeared, they barked to attract the attention of people and huge dogs. In some monasteries, dogs turned prayer mills, and they were even allowed to enter the premises and be present during hours of prayer.

The Tibetan Spaniel is a small, active, elongated dog. The head is small relative to the body, proud, without signs of coarseness even in males, slightly rounded. The muzzle is of medium length with a large chin, without wrinkles. A small bite is typical for this breed, but the teeth and tongue should not be visible.

5. Icelandic dog or Icelandic sheepdog

This is an ancient breed of dog, whose representatives were used as shepherds in Iceland. They are sociable and become very attached to their owner. They rarely have to be called - a man's friend tries to be nearby as often as possible.

This dog breed comes from dogs brought to Iceland by the Vikings. Later, these dogs were brought from Iceland to the British Isles and served as the basis for the development of the Collie and Welsh Corgi breeds.

The Icelandic Shepherd is sensitive, very loving and develops a strong bond with its owner. They are also very sociable, making them a great family dog. Icelanders get along well with other animals, as well as with children. Icelandic Shepherds adore people and prefer to be nearby all the time, follow the owner and sleep at his feet.

6. Norfolk Terrier

Another name is Norfolk Terrier. Norfolk Terriers are brave, cheerful and sensitive dogs. They are considered one of the smallest terriers. Well adapted to life in the city, they can be kept even in a small apartment, but taking into account daily walks and regular trips to nature, where the dogs can run freely without a leash.

The Norfolk Terrier is a passionate hunter of rats and other small animals that cause harm to the household. These dogs can work both in a pack and alone, fearlessly driving the animal out of the hole.

Dogs that are not grumpy, vigilant, balanced and gentle towards children make excellent companions and watchdogs.

7. Leonberger

The pet looks, frankly, scary. In fact, individuals are usually docile. But this quality applies only to the owners. For the rest, it’s better not to allow yourself too much in relation to the four-legged one.

The breed was recognized by the FCI in 1905. Divorces have been taking place in Russia since 1989. Leonbergers are very powerful dogs with a balanced temperament and can be used as guard dogs, companions, and family dogs.

A very strong, muscular and yet elegant dog. A harmonious physique and self-confidence are combined with a calm disposition and a lively temperament. Males are especially powerful and energetic.

8. American Eskimo Spitz

He is also an American Eskimo dog. A relative of the German Spitz. A strong dog with an elongated body, which, thanks to its muzzle, looks a little like a fox. Dogs, as a rule, are kind and cheerful, with an easy-going character.

This is the perfect lap dog that has many talents. This Spitz is an excellent watchdog, a reliable guard, he can search for drugs, participate in agility and other types of dog sports.

He is gentle with his owner, incredibly loyal and in love. He is always cheerful and playful, will not refuse to have fun with children, is easy to learn and strives to please his owner.

9. Nova Scotia Retriever or Toller

A hunting dog, no more than half a meter tall. But training such a pet will take more time than training his fellow retrievers. Quite stubborn and willful. Although he cannot be denied his protective qualities - rest assured, you are under reliable tailed protection.

This is still a very young breed, it was recognized in Canada in 1945. These dogs are significantly smaller than other retrievers, measuring only 45-51 cm in height. They are a compact, tan-colored dog with white markings on their paws, tail, chest and face.

Currently, Tollers are a fairly popular dog in many European countries, primarily in Scandinavia. Their small size makes Tollers very comfortable dogs to keep in an apartment.

10. Keeshond or German Wolfspitz

This is the largest representative of the Spitz family. Its homeland is Holland and Germany, where it was first identified as a separate species. This is a medium-sized animal, 42-45 cm high at the withers.

This breed was especially popular in the Netherlands, where it is called the Keeshond or barge dog, since they were bred by sailors and boatmen to guard barges. Maybe that's why these dogs love to swim. They were also used to protect houses, guard and herd livestock, and even for hunting.

The Keeshond is affectionate, playful, but quite clingy. But he is very trainable and loves to play with children.

Wolfspitz dogs come only in wolf color, which is why they got their name. It can be all kinds of shades of gray. There should also be a black mask on the face, and black ears on the head.