Norwegian Buhund
The Norwegian Buhund is described by the AKC as confident, smart, perceptive, a member of the Herding Group, originally from Norway.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 17-18.5 inches (male), 16-17.5 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 31-40 pounds (male), 26-35 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Confident / Smart / Perceptive [1] |
| AKC group | Herding Group [1] |
| Origin | Norway [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 173 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Buhunds have been bred to work and herd for hours at a time. This can result in very energetic dogs who need vigorous exercise (that allows them to run fast) twice a day for optimum physical and mental health. These dogs love to run with a bicycle, retrieve balls, or go for long, all-day hikes. [1]
Grooming
Compared to other breeds, Norwegian Buhunds do not need extensive grooming. They are naturally clean and basically odorless dogs, even when wet. The Buhund has a double coat: an outer coat that is thick, rich, hard, and smooth lying, and a soft, dense, and woolly undercoat. [1]
Health issues to budget for
In general, Norwegian Buhunds tend to be healthy and hardy. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for health conditions such as hip dysplasia, von Willebrand's disease, and eye disease. Potential puppy buyers are always advised to confirm the health screening of the sire and dam. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Norwegian Buhund in 2009. [1]
- It ranked No. 173 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Buhund.” [1]
- The AKC lists Norway as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 2 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Close neighbors or thin walls: AKC rates barking 4/5
Common questions
How long do Norwegian Buhunds live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
How big does a Norwegian Buhund get?
AKC breed information lists height 17-18.5 inches (male), 16-17.5 inches (female) and weight 31-40 pounds (male), 26-35 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a Norwegian Buhund?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Norwegian Buhund, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.