GROUP 5 - WORKING DOGS

Brief History
The Norwegian Buhund is the farm dog of Norway. A member of the spitz family, the Buhund has been recognised as a breed since the 1600s and is a herding dog as well as a guardian of the livestock and home.

Average Life Span
When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime.

The average life span is 13 to 15 years.

Temperament
An active, self confident and independent dog, he is affectionate and intelligent.

General Breed Description
A medium, short coated breed, praised as a watchdog, his size means readily adaptable to city or rural living, provided he is given regular outdoor exercise. Obedience training and socialisation from an early age ensures a well-mannered dog. Coat colours include wheaten, red, wolf-sable.

Coat and Care Requirements
The Buhund has a short, double coat: a soft dense undercoat and a thick hard outer coat. This coat is easily cared for, only requiring a good brush several times a week. During shedding, daily brushing is recommended.

Size
Height: Males 45cms (18ins), Females slight less than the male.

Health
All breeds have individual health issues. When speaking to breeders it is recommended you enquire about breed’s health and what health testing the breeder does. The Buhund is generally a healthy breed, however health conditions do occur occasionally.

Suitability
The Buhund is the ideal size for a house pet and is a great people lover. He is an active breed, needing daily exercise and enjoying mental and physical stimulation. Obedience training is recommended as the breed can be headstrong. It is not easy to acquire a Buhund, as there are only few breeders in Australia.

In Conclusion
Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs. With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come.

Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership.

Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular the preservation of pure breeds.

Link to Dogs Australia Breed Standard: https://dogsaustralia.org.au/breed/detail/162