About The Buhund

Norwegian Buhund History

The name Buhund is derived from the Norwegian word ‘bu’ which means farm, homestead or mountain hut, where the shepherd lived while looking after his herd in the summer. The Buhund was used as an all purpose farm and herding dog, as well as a watch dog. The Buhund is still used for their original purpose in Norway and can often be seen on remote farms.

The Norwegian Buhund is a typical Spitz type dog with prick ears and a curled tail. Dogs similar to the Buhund were found in a Viking grave in Norway from about the year 900 a.d. In the Gokstad excavation in Norway, where a Viking grave was opened, skeletons from six dogs of various sizes were found. They would be the representatives of modern-day Buhunds.

It is documented that these dogs traveled with Vikings both by sea and land. The modern Buhund that we see today was developed on the western coastlands of Norway.

The first Buhund show was held at Jaeren, Norway in the 1920, at the initiative of Buhund enthusiast John Saeland. The Norsk Buhund Club was founded in 1939. Toralf Raanaas was the first President of the club. John Saeland and Toralf Raanaas selected the best animals for breed type and working ability. The first Buhund registered was named Flink.

The Norwegian Buhund was used as an all purpose farm dog for herding sheep and cattle and as a watch dog. The Buhund is an excellent obedience and agility dog and is currently being used as a hearing assistance dog. They are very high energy and enjoy having a job.

Buhund Activities

Buhunds are a very versatile breed! There are many activities Buhunds love to do with their owners and excel at, here are a few.

Conformation

Buhunds in Conformation

Conformation refers to a dog show where judges evaluate purebred dogs by how well the dogs conform to the established breed type for their breed, as described in a breed’s individual breed standard. As one of the most popular AKC events, conformation events range from large all-breed shows, with over 3,000 dogs entered, to small local specialty club shows that feature only one breed.

Herding

Buhunds in Conformation

Norwegian Buhunds were used as versatile farm dogs, herding sheep and cattle, and guarding their families, flocks and homes. The name “Buhund” translates to “farm dog” in Norwegian. Its in their blood and boy do they enjoy it!

Barn Hunt

Buhunds in Barn Hunt

Barn Hunt is a sport for your dog where they have to use their nose to locate rats (safely enclosed in aerated tubes) hidden in a maze of straw/hay. This is such a fun activity for your Buhunds as they have excellent noses and love to use them. They just love this sport!

FastCAT

Buhunds in FastCAT

FastCAT (which stands for Coursing Ability Test) is a timed 100-yard dash were dogs run one at a time chasing a lure. Buhunds are athletic and really enjoy stretching their legs chasing after the lure.

Trick Dog

Buhunds Performing Tricks

Buhunds LOVE learning and are extremely intelligent, they can really get into Trick dog training with their favorite people. Now you can achieve titles through AKC for Tricks.

Obedience/Rally

Buhunds in Companion Events

Obedience trials are one of the AKC’s oldest traditions, it demonstrates well-behaved dogs performing specified routines. In AKC Rally the dog/handler team must navigate a course made up of directional signs and each require a specific skill to be performed. Each course is unique and different; it is great for first-time competitors or anyone new to Companion Events.

Dock Diving

Buhunds in Dock Diving

Not a common event for our Buhunds but many enjoy splashing around in water which can be developed into enjoying Dock Diving events.

Agility

Buhunds in Agility

Dog agility is a dog sport in which a handler directs a dog through an obstacle course in a race for both time and accuracy. With Buhund intelligence and athleticism they both do well and enjoy this sport.

Nose Work

Buhunds in Nose Work

Nosework is an activity that allows your dog to use their natural desire to hunt. It harnesses a dog’s unique ability to detect scent and determine the source. This is such a fun activity for your Buhunds as they have excellent noses and love to use them.

Therapy

Buhunds as Therapy Dogs

Therapy dogs go with their owners to volunteer in settings such as schools, hospitals, and nursing homes. From working with a child who is learning to read to visiting a senior in assisted living, therapy dogs and their owners work together as a team to improve the lives of other people. I’ve found that Buhunds are so in tune to people and their emotions, they make excellent Therapy dogs.

Bunhund Personality

Intelligent

Alert, outgoing and incredibly fast learners, Buhunds require creative and mentally stimulating training.

Affectionate

Loving and loyal with their family, most Buhunds like to cuddle after a long day’s work. They are good with children, showing patience. When properly socialized, they are friendly towards other dogs, cats and people.

Lively

Always ready for action, though not to the point of hyperactivity, Buhunds are always up for any adventure. Buhunds are hard workers and the picture of endurance. They excel in venues such as Agility.

Vocal

Buhunds can be vocal, especially when left to they own devices. Early training can help discourage the behavior so it does not become an issue.

Curious

A tired dog is a happy owner, especially when it comes to Buhunds. A bored Buhund will find something to do and that could involve taking something apart. Daily physical and mental exercise is recommended.

Alert

They can be good watch dogs but not “guardy” unless provoked.

Happy

Love for life is infectious. Buhunds try to engage everyone around them in their play.

Fun

Buhunds are naturally happy dogs. They are playful, engaging, and perfectly at home living with humans. They have a sound disposition