Herding group
Norwegian Buhund
A Viking farm dog — cheerful, energetic and eager to work.
Norwegian Buhunds are medium-sized spitz herding dogs from Norwegian farms. They are cheerful, affectionate and intelligent, with high energy and a readiness to bark.
- Height
- 16–18.5 in41–47 cm
- Weight
- 26–40 lb12–18 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 years
- Size
- Medium
- Group
- Herding
- Origin
- Norway
Coat: Thick, harsh, smooth double coat. Colours: Wheaten, Black.
At a glance
Ratings describe typical dogs of the breed on a 1–5 scale. Individual dogs vary with lines, upbringing and training.
Temperament
Buhunds are friendly, lively and affectionate. They love children and generally get along with people and other dogs.
They are energetic and vocal, bred to herd and alert on farms. Without activity they become noisy and restless.
Living with a Norwegian Buhund
Exercise
Needs an hour or more of vigorous daily activity plus training or herding.
Grooming
Brush weekly and daily during heavy seasonal sheds. The harsh coat sheds dirt easily once dry.
Training
Eager and intelligent; reward-based training works well. Teach a quiet cue.
Kids & other pets
Excellent with children and usually good with other dogs; their cheerful nature suits busy households.
Time alone
Prefers company; may bark or become restless if left alone for long periods.
Home fit
Best suited to a house with secure outdoor space; apartment living is hard on this breed and its neighbours.
Is a Norwegian Buhund right for you?
Take the Breed Fit quiz to see how a Norwegian Buhund matches your home, schedule and tolerance for shedding, barking and exercise — or find out which breed matches your personality with Dogsona.
Health
With good breeding and care, a Norwegian Buhund typically lives 12–15 years. These are the conditions most associated with the breed — not a prediction for any individual dog.
Hip dysplasia
Screened parents reduce the risk of joint disease.
Hereditary cataracts
Inherited cataracts occur; annual eye exams help.
Eye disease
Other inherited eye conditions occasionally occur.
Ask a breeder for
- Hip evaluation
- Eye examination
Sources: OFA CHIC breed requirements: Norwegian Buhund; Norwegian Buhund Club of America. This is general information, not veterinary advice — talk to your vet about your own dog.
Cost to own
After the first year, expect roughly $1,200–$2,500 a year for food, routine vet care, preventives, insurance and supplies (US estimate).
- Pet insurance for a puppy typically runs $30–$60 a month; premiums rise with age and breed risk.
History
Buhund-type dogs have lived in Norway since the Viking era; dogs resembling them were found in a Viking grave dating to around 900 AD. “Bu” means homestead or livestock in Norwegian.
The breed herded sheep and cattle and guarded farms. The AKC recognised the Norwegian Buhund in 2009.
Did you know?
- Buhund-like dogs were buried with Vikings around 900 AD.
- “Bu” means homestead or livestock in Norwegian.
- Buhunds have tightly curled tails carried over the back.
Library guides for Norwegian Buhund owners
Grooming
Brushing
A brushing routine keeps Norwegian Buhund shedding under control.
Exercise & Play
Fetch
A fast way to meet a high exercise need.
Exercise & Play
Hide and Seek
Brain work that tires busy minds.
Exercise & Play
Dog Walking
Getting daily walks right for a Norwegian Buhund.
Grooming
Nail Clipping
Every dog needs regular nail care.
New Dog Owners
How to find a reputable dog breeder
What to ask a Norwegian Buhund breeder about health screening.
Similar breeds
Frequently asked questions
- Are Norwegian Buhunds good family dogs?
- Yes — they are cheerful and great with children, with enough exercise.
- Do Buhunds bark a lot?
- Yes, they are vocal.
- Do Buhunds shed?
- Yes, heavily during seasonal sheds.