Norwegian Buhund vs Harrier - Breed Comparison | PetzLover

Developed in Great Britain, the Harrier is another hunting dog – a hound that primarily hunts hares and small prey. The breed itself is medium sized - smaller than an English Foxhound and larger than a Beagle. Although the definitive origins of the Harrier are not set, it is believed that he is a cross of the Basset Hound, Talbot Hound and Bloodhound. Others believe the breed is a cross of the Greyhound and the English Foxhound. The Harrier looks like a smaller version of the English Foxhound.

The Harrier is a pack dog and in 1260, Sir Elias de Midhope established the first pack in England. From there the breed spread to Wales and Western England, most used in Ireland where they hunt fox as well as hares. However, hunting hares is the specialty of the breed and even gave the breed its name. In 1885 they were recognized by the American Kennel Club in the Hound Group. Yet despite this and despite the number of Harriers working in England, they are not recognized by the UKC.

The Norwegian Buhund is a spitz type dog belonging to the herding group of dogs. The dog is related to the Icelandic Sheepdog and the Jämthund.

This dog breed dates back thousands of years to Nordic Viking times. For centuries these dogs have served working dogs, being herders as well as guardians of flock. Even today in remote parts of Norway, you’ll still find this dog doing farm work.

The Harrier is a typical hound dog much like the English Foxhound. The breed is a little smaller than the Foxhound but is muscular and large boned like his cousin. They have short hard hair that sheds and ears that hang. The Harrier is a large boned breed built for strength and stamina in the race with hares. They have broad skulls, strong muzzles, with hazel or brown eyes. They also have a black, wide nose and a high, medium length tail.

They say he has a ‘courtly grin’ on an expressive face. Being pack dogs, they must be sturdy, able to cover any type of terrain, for as long as the hare runs. It is critical that their scenting and running tools are exceptional. He is blue or yellow-pied. His feet are cat like and the chest is dropped low. He is an extremely well-proportioned dog

The Norwegian Buhund stands at 41 to 47cm in height both male and female. He is a medium sized dog and weighs between 12 and 18kg.

Known as a herding dog, he is described as being deep chested with a well built, compact body, erect ears and a tail which curves over the back. The head of the dog is wedge-shaped and he has a bright, intelligent look to him.

The coat is essentially a wheaten color but it can be other shades such as a pale cream color to bright orange and sometimes even black. The coat is short to medium in length and he sheds moderately with some seasonal shedding as well.

Temperament:

Fun loving, friendly and social, the Norwegian Buhund is also an active dog who will always be pleading with you for a game or walkies. His pleading brown eyes will hopefully soften your heart towards him so that you give him a ball game or a run in the park. It is why this dog breed gets on well with children – he loves to be playing games with them.

They are such lovable dogs, wanting to spend time with their human family and always ready with a doggy kiss. They want to protect the ones they love and this makes them good watchdogs too, being wary around strangers. He is highly intelligent and will go through training and socialization with ease.

Children friendliness

Yes, they are good with children but are very rambunctious and should be supervised with young children.

Special talents

Scenting ability and wonderful personality

Adaptability

This breed is very adaptable as long as it gets enough exercise. He can live in the country or she can live in the city with an outlet for exercise.

Learning ability

Smart but stubborn at times. Therefore, his learning ability is moderate.

The Norwegian Buhund is a cheerful, social and active breed.

He will need exercise on a daily basis. They are lovable dogs and are affectionate towards children in the home. They form strong bonds with their human family.

He is a strong willed dog, and will require training and socialization. As a working and herding dog, he wants to be busy, and is perhaps best suited to life in the suburbs or countryside as opposed to living in the city.

He makes an awesome companion dog and he wants to please his human family and be an active part of their lives.

Health Problems

It seems the only real health issue other than hunting accidents or foot and toe incidents due to hunting.is:

Hip Dysplasia

This abnormality in the hip socket can cause arthritis and lameness that is very painful. This is the most severe form. The Harrier can have a milder form that does not progress to this level. Hip dysplasia has a genetic component, but the environment plays a role as well and active hunting dogs are especially prone to this.

Ear Infections

Floppy ears that hang down are always susceptible to ear infections. Check them often and clean them at least weekly.

Provide your Norwegian Buhund with the right care and he can get to 15 years of age. Hip dysplasia is always an issue with dogs and you should be very wary of it as it can cause lameness and pain.

Cataracts is another illness that you want to be aware of. Although not painful, this eye aliment can lead to blindness.

Look out for other common dog illnesses such as bloat, skin allergies and cancer.

Feeding the puppy

Feed a high nutrition puppy food dry food made for an energetic breed. Feed 3 times a day ½-3/4 cup each time.

Feeding the adult

Again feed a high nutrition adult food for an active breed. Feed twice a day 1-11/2 cups each time.

Points for Good Health

Outstanding health unless in a hunting accident.

Games and Exercises

The Harrier is an energetic, hunting breed that needs a lot of exercise on a daily basis. Long walks and jogging or running is good for the Harrier. If they are not working, hunting dogs they need more exercise. A fenced yard for playing is good. If this intense breed does not get enough exercise and mental stimulation, he needs there could be issues with destructive behavior and obesity. Flyball, tracking, agility, coursing, rally and hunting are great activities for this breed of dog. In addition, they are pack animals and do better in a family that has more than one dog.

Exercise:

You’re going to need to provide this dog of yours with activities that stimulate him physically and mentally. The Norwegian Buhund isn’t a couch-potato type of dog and he doesn’t do well with just lying around. Take him on walks and hikes, throw balls or frisbees for him and buy him some toys that can entertain him. You want to avoid him barking and digging from sheer boredom.

Grooming:

Like all other spitz-breed dogs, the Norwegian Buhund has a thick double coat, and because he sheds moderately, you will need to brush him at least twice a week. Check simultaneously for ticks and fleas.

Check your pets eye and ears for infection and check his teeth. A rotting tooth at the back of his mouth can be the cause of a lot of pain and problems throughout the body. Keep his nails clipped as well so as to prevent them hooking onto things.

Provide your pet with a nice warm, dry, comfortable place to sleep. If he goes outside, make sure he has a place to lie in the shade or in the sun.

Take your pet to the vet when he appears to be lethargic and sick. Remember to keep his vaccines up to date.

Diet:

Feed your pet food which is known for its nutritional value. Home made food is a real treat for your pet, but high quality commercially manufactured food can be good and convenient too.

Dogs love simple, consistent diets which don’t upset their stomachs. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta, and some vegetables such as sweet potatoes, spinach and carrots chopped up into his food from time to time can be superbly nutritious for your pet. Try and also include a little bit of raw meat occasionally. Always have a bowl of fresh, cool water available to your pet.