Norwegian Buhund

Photographer: Vibeke Brath

 The breed’s name is derived from the old Norwegian term “bu”, which refers to such concepts as “farm”, “hut” and “livestock”, thus indicating the Buhund’s original use as a farm and herding dog. It was used for herding cattle and small livestock, but also reindeer and pigs. In many areas of the country, every farm had its Buhund. The dogs often lived in the barn, and herded the animals when they were put to pasture in the daytime.

In the early 1900s, the Norwegian Buhund population rapidly declined, partially due to the import of foreign breeds that outcom¬peted the Buhund. Fortunately, the situation was taken seriously and a considerable effort was made to save this unique breed. Systematic registration, controlled breeding and participation at shows held by the Norwegian Kennel Club resulted in the breed’s increasing popularity and formed the basis for the modern-day Buhund.

In the 1920s, Buhund shows were com¬monly held in connection with the state-run goat and sheep shows. These shows were surely important for the increasing interest in the Norwegian Buhund – as there were especially many active breeders in the “sheep county” Rogaland in south-western Norway. In recent years, about 100-150 Norwegian Buhund puppies have been registered annually by the Norwegian Kennel Club. The Norwegian Buhund is thus a small-numbered breed, and preferably its numbers should increase in order to ensure sound and effective breeding efforts.

Appearance and size

The Norwegian Buhund is a typical spitz dog, slightly below medium size. The Buhund is squarely built and has a dense, flat-lying coat. The ears are pointed and erect and their shape and size should harmonize with the head shape. The tail is carried firmly curled over the back.

The Buhund is either wheaten or black. The wheaten variant can range from rather light to yellowish-red, with or without dark-tipped hairs. Clean and bright colour is preferred. The black variant should preferably be self-coloured, but white as a blaze, chest spot or collar and on the paws is acceptable.

Eyes should be as dark as possible and harmonize with the overall appear-ance. Height at the withers is 43-47 cm for males and 41-45 cm for bitches. The weight should be in proportion to the dog’s size.

Utilization

The Norwegian Buhund was traditionally a herding dog, and is often preferably used to herd sheep, especially in large sheep drives. The breed is also used somewhat for hunting, e.g. in elk hunting. Due to its excellent learning abilities, the Buhund is now also being used for other purposes.

Increasing numbers of Buhunds are distinguishing themselves at such disciplines as obedience and agility. In England, they are also being used as guide dogs and drug detection dogs – which says a lot about the breed’s versatility and potential. A Norwegian Buhund is a good, friendly family dog, and is usually good-natured and loyal.

The Buhund is very active and needs a lot of exercise and stimulation. If not provided with sufficient daily challenges and activities, the Buhund will let you know – which is probably why the myth of a “yappy dog” arose. However, a satisfied Buhund is often a calm and devoted dog. (Source: Den norske hundeboka, Ulvund tekst & forlag)

Breed registration statistics

Below you can find the registration statistics for the Norwegian Buhund in the Nordic countries from 1990 onwards.