Norbottenspets

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Norrbottenspets (also known as Nordic Spitz, Norrbottenspitz, Pohjanpystykorva) is an ancient breed of spitz type dogs that originated in Sweden. This dog was primarily used as hunting and farm dog but is now gaining popularity as family companion pet. Announced the National dog of Sweden, the Norrbottenspets originated in 1600s from Dingo dogs. It became almost extinct during WWII but was revived in 1960s when some dogs were found in remote Swedish villages.

The Norrbottenspets is a small, squarely built compact dog that stands between 16-18 inches and weighs about 18-33 lbs. There should be lightness and power reflected in the dog. It comes with a wedge-shaped broad skull and moderately long muzzle that tapers to a black nose. Large almond shaped eyes can be of any colour, from light amber to deep brown. High set ears are erect. The back is rather short but strong and muscular. The dog has a well developed fore-chest, a deep chest and a rib cage that reached below the elbows. The double coat of this breed has fine, soft and thick undercoat and rough, straight and close-fitting topcoat. White is common colour with red, tan or brown markings. Rather high set tail is carried in a high curve, loosely curled with the tip of tail touching side of thigh.

This breed is NOT recognized by AKC but is registered with Foundation Stock Services, awaiting full recognition. It is recognized by other major kennel clubs like FCI, UKC and CKC.

Color

This dog comes in primarily white colour with preferable markings of red, brown or tan. Black, fawn and agouti patches are also acceptable but not desired. Markings should be large. Colour should cover the sides of head and ears.

Coat

Double coat of the dog has soft, dense and fine undercoat and rough, straight and hard outer coat that lies close to the body. Both coats protects the dog from extremely harsh and cold weather conditions.

Personality

The Norrbottenspets, once were threatened to extinct, are now gaining immense popularity among common people, not only due to their impressive and eye-pleasing appearance but also for their even temperament and loving nature. These dogs are loving and loyal, forming strong bond with their human family. This breed is regarded as among top ten notable breeds for their gentleness with children. These dogs are non-aggressive even if teased or harassed by children and would simply retreat. Protective instincts of these dogs together with their affectionate personality make them a very trustworthy protector of children. This dog also gets along well with other dogs. With its alert nature and loud bark, the dog makes an excellent alarm dog and will announce arrival of a stranger but they are poor guard dogs due to their friendly nature. It is an excessive barker but with proper training, can be taught not to bark without a reason. Its intelligence and eager to please attitude makes it an easy dog to train with positive and innovative training routines as the dog is known to become bored with repetitive commands. It has high energy levels and consequently, high demands for exercise. This breed will be suitable for active families with a large open space where the dog can burn its excessive energy by playing and running. This dog makes an excellent partner of hiking, jogging, camping and other outdoor activities. It is also used successfully in search and rescue operations. The Norrbottenspets are excellent all around working dogs with a wonderful temperament to be an excellent family pet.

Care

With an easy to maintain coat and no doggy smell, the Norrbottenspets is an easy breed to take care of. Regular, 2-4 times a week brushing should be enough to keep the coat clean and in top condition. Bathe only when necessary.

Training

This intelligent and eager to please dog is very trainable. Harsh training methods will not work on this dog as it needs gentle and innovative training routines. Repetitive training routines will make this dog bored so the owner/trainer should be innovative and gentle when training these dogs.

Activity

Its high energy levels demand high exercise needs. This dog loves outdoor activities with its owner and can be an excellent partner when it comes to activities like jogging, running, hiking, camping etc. It needs large open spaces to run and play. For this reason, it may not be a good choice for apartment living.