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Norwegian Buhund

Herding Group

Intelligent, energetic and friendly

Norwegian Buhund

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Breed Overview

The Norwegian Buhund is an energetic, loyal companion ideal for active owners. Combining the traits of a diligent working dog with the warmth of a family pet, it offers spirited companionship and thrives on both physical and mental engagement.

Physical Characteristics
  • Size Medium
  • Height Males: 17-18.5 inches at the shoulder, Females: 16-17.5 inches
  • Weight Males: 31-40 pounds, Females: 26-35 pounds
  • Life Span 12-15 years
  • Coat Thick, hard outer coat with a soft undercoat
  • Color Wheaten (ranging from pale cream to bright orange), black
  • Grooming Moderate; regular brushing to manage shedding
  • Temperament Energetic, alert, loyal, intelligent
  • Energy Level High; requires regular exercise
  • Intelligence High; quick to learn and eager to please
Health Needs
  • Exercise Needs plenty of daily exercise
  • Trainability Highly trainable, responds well to positive reinforcement
  • Socialization Needs early socialization; friendly with people and animals
  • Grooming Moderate; regular brushing to manage shedding
  • Health Issues Generally healthy but can be prone to certain genetic conditions like hip dysplasia
Environment
  • Suitability for Families Excellent; affectionate and good with children
  • Suitable Living Space Adaptable to various living situations, thrives with enough space for exercise

About the Breed

The Norwegian Buhund is an ancient breed, traditionally used for herding livestock and as a watchdog. Their keen senses and agility make them excellent at these tasks. Today, they excel in various dog sports and are cherished family members.

History of the Breed

Originating from Norway and dating back to the Viking era, the Norwegian Buhund has a rich history of herding and guarding livestock, alongside being companions to Vikings. The breed was officially recognized in Norway in the early 20th century, marking its significant development and formal acknowledgment as a distinct breed.

Norway

Fun Facts About the Norwegian Buhund

What To Expect When Caring For a Norwegian Buhund

Health

Generally healthy but can be prone to hip dysplasia and eye disorders. Regular veterinary check-ups are important.

Grooming

Coat: Requires regular brushing to manage shedding, more during seasonal changes. Nails: Regular trimming is necessary. Ears and Teeth: Regular cleaning and dental care are recommended.

Exercise

Needs plenty of daily exercise; and enjoys walks, runs, and playtime. Excels in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding trials.

Training

Responds well to positive reinforcement techniques. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial for well-rounded behavior.

Nutrition

Requires a well-balanced diet suitable for their age, size, and activity level. Regular meal times and avoiding overfeeding are important to maintain a healthy weight.

This breed, with its rich history and endearing qualities, is perfect for those looking for an active, intelligent, and loyal companion. Proper care, exercise, and training will ensure a happy and healthy life for your Norwegian Buhund.

Norwegian Buhund Common Health Issues and Recommended Tests

The Norwegian Buhund is generally considered a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to specific health issues.

Description: A genetic condition where the thighbone doesn't fit snugly into the hip joint.

Description: Includes conditions like cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).

Description: The kneecap (patella) slides in and out of place, causing pain.

Description: Some dogs may be born deaf or lose their hearing with age.

Hip Dysplasia

Description: A genetic condition where the thighbone doesn't fit snugly into the hip joint.

Eye Problems

Description: Includes conditions like cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).

Patellar Luxation

Description: The kneecap (patella) slides in and out of place, causing pain.

Deafness

Description: Some dogs may be born deaf or lose their hearing with age.

Regular health check-ups and staying vigilant for any signs of these conditions can ensure prompt and effective treatment. Maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary care are also crucial in keeping a Norwegian Buhund healthy. Breeders should follow responsible breeding practices, including health screenings, to reduce the prevalence of these conditions in the breed.

Prescription Medication Assistance for Norwegian Buhunds

The iHeartDogs Free Rx Discount Card Program is a pet prescription discount card that can help you save money on your furry friend’s medications. The card is free to sign up for, and you can use it at participating pharmacies nationwide. To use the free program, simply show the card to your pharmacist when you pick up your pet’s prescription. The pharmacist will then scan the card, and you will receive a discount on the price of the medication.LEARN MORE

How Much Does It Cost To Care For A Norwegian Buhund?

Caring for a Norwegian Buhund, like any dog, involves various expenses. The annual cost can vary depending on several factors including the dog’s health, your location, and the level of care and lifestyle you provide. Here’s a breakdown of the typical expenses:

A purebred Norwegian Buhund puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite expensive. Always consider adopting from a shelter or rescue.

Initial Cost

$1000 - 2500

Potential Additional Costs:

When searching for a reputable breeder, seek online reviews, and advice from vets, groomers, and fellow Norwegian Buhund enthusiasts.

Initial supplies like a crate, bed, bowls, collar, and leash can really add up.

Initial Cost

$250 - 800

Potential Additional Costs:

You may already have many of these items at home. Costs will vary depending on your purchase choices.

High-quality dog food and treats for a medium-sized breed

Estimated Cost

$250 - 700

Potential Additional Costs:

Learn more about the best quality dog food for Norwegian Buhunds.

Regular brushing is needed; professional grooming may be desired a few times a year.

Estimated Cost

$100 - 300

Potential Additional Costs:

If you choose to perform simple grooming tasks at home you will need to invest in high-quality grooming supplies, such as dog-safe shampoos, nail trimmers, and haircutting shears.

Norwegian Buhunds require routine vet visits for check-ups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention.

Estimate Cost

$200 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

The cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on your geographic location and many other factors. This estimate only represents the cost of wellness care, and does not include any potential illnesses or injuries that may arise.

Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you can afford necessary veterinary care in the event of an emergency.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

Insurance premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose as well as your Norwegian Buhund's age and health. Get a FREE, no-strings quote from the top pet insurers!

Your Norwegian Buhund will need toys, chews, wellness supplements, car safety equipment, and other supplies throughout their life.

Estimated Cost

$100 - 500

Potential Additional Costs:

Additional supplies can add up depending on the level of care you provide your pup.

Professional training is extremely important, but can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your dog's care.

Estimated Cost

$500 - 1000

Potential Additional Costs:

Online Courses are available and can help you save money.

Setting aside funds for unexpected health issues is always a good idea.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Can easily reach into the thousands with surgical costs, IVs, medications and after hours treatment.

If you travel or work long hours, you may need boarding or pet sitting services.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Overnight-boarding, day-boarding, and pet-sitting costs vary depending on the area you live, length of stay/frequency of services, and the amenities offered by the boarding facility or pet sitter.

A one-time fee for microchipping and annual local licensing fees.

Estimated Cost

$35 - 70

Total Estimated Annual Cost:

$2635 - $7070

It's important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary. Also, the first year of owning a dog can be more expensive due to one-time costs like spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and training. Regular budgeting for your dog's needs and an emergency fund for unforeseen costs are essential for responsible pet ownership.

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