Do you envision yourself high in the mountains, knee-deep in snow, chasing a moose? Who will you take with you? Of course, your faithful friend – a Norwegian dog. It is he who knows the wide frosty terrain best. Shining cold fjords, sparkling under the bright sun, green forests, falling waterfalls, steep cliffs of Norway have brought up their own peculiar group of dogs: spitzes and hounds. The harsh conditions of the country put their imprint on the formation of breeds, because in low temperatures, deep snows and cold waters can successfully live hardy, purposeful and companionable dogs. Several breeds of dogs have been developed for the purposes of hunting birds, animals, guarding and guarding farm pens. Among them we will name 5 most popular ones: Norwegian Buhund, Norwegian Elkhund (differentiate between Grey Elkhund and Black Elkhund), Norwegian Lundehund, Norwegian Hound and Halden Hound.
Farmer’s keeper – Norwegian Buhund
The Norwegian Buhund is a breed bred for guarding and caring for farms and is a spitz-like dog. The dog is wheat or black bright color with a black spout. The tail is high, tightly curled in a ring and tipped on the back. Males are 43 to 47 cm tall, bitches are 41 to 45 cm tall; males weigh about 14 to 18 kg, bitches about 12 to 16 kg. The dogs have a strong guarding instinct, are friendly to the owner and children, not aggressive. Farmers’ favorites are hardy and have a double dense water-repellent coat. The only drawback may be barking, but this issue is solved by proper training. Norwegian Buhunds are charged with irrepressible energy, thirst for life. You will not get bored with them, because dogs need constant long walks and games.
Who will catch a moose? – Norwegian Elkhun
The Norwegian Elkhund is a breed of spitz-like hunting dog that is still used today for hunting mainly moose. It has a square body shape and a height of 46 to 51 cm and a weight of about 20 kg. The dog is distinguished by its friendly character, which allows it to be a children’s favorite. The energetic dog loves outdoor play. The breed is divided into two varieties. The Norwegian Gray Elkhund is a very ancient group of animals, and relatively later the Norwegian Black Elkhund appeared.
The Gray Elkhund is characterized by high intelligence and participates in mountain rescue operations. It is worth noting that in the spring period the dog sheds a lot, so you will have to comb the Guardian’s coat frequently.
The Norwegian Black Elkhund is a versatile hunter, a little smaller in size than the Gray Elkhund. It has a loyal and self-sufficient, independent character. Therefore, you may encounter difficulties in training, because it needs a strong-willed owner.
Bird hunter – Norwegian Lundehund
Norwegian Lundehunds are one of the oldest and most unique breeds. The dog was used to hunt the Tupik birds that live along the Atlantic coast. The dog was on the verge of extinction, but the breed was restored and introduced a ban on the use of puppies for hunting. They are distinguished by a special flexibility of the body, have six toes on each paw for easy movement on rocks. Their ears are very mobile and do not allow water to enter the ear canals. The dog likes to chase birds, if you have pet feathered Pets, you should not get a Norwegian Lundehund. Needs a strong and authoritative owner, as he himself is sturdy and strong. The puppy should not be allowed to pull its leash on a walk, the puppy should walk beside you.
Norwegian and Halden Hound
The Norwegian Hound belongs to the group of Scandinavian hounds. The dog has a black coat with murmur and white flecks. The ears are floppy and the tail is straight. The breed is bred for the pursuit of hare. The dog is very hardy, intelligent and loyal. Rapidly achieves the goal, can take the trail even in deep snow. Aggression can show only on hunting, among the family is characterized by a balanced character. A good companion and guard for children. The breed should be kept outdoors, the thick coat will not give the dog a good feeling in a warm room.
The Halden Hound (Haldenstever) is the smallest Norwegian breed that belongs to the hounds. The dog has a sturdy build, dark coat and ears that are stretched forward and curled into a tube. It is a very good-natured breed, does not show aggression to strangers. Dogs are Shaluna, which get along well with children, there is no guarding instinct. Best of all, the dog shows itself in its element – hunting. These hunters work hard and do not return from the campaign without prey.
Conclusions
Norwegian dogs have a strong medium build, strong character, hunting instinct. All breeds love to spend time outdoors, run and play with kids. If you want an energetic, inquisitive Pet, you should consider Scandinavian dog breeds. Animals are friendly, attached to the owner and like to spend their leisure time actively. Always ready to stand up for themselves and their pets.
