Are you privy to the fascinating saga of the Norwegian Buhund? A stunningly attractive breed, these dogs were once embarked on long expeditions with the restless Vikings! Unlike your usual everyday canine companion, the Buhund has literary references dating back to 900 AD and a prestigious origin hailing from Norway. But, with such an electrifying history, an intriguing question arises: “Does this Nordic dog require a special diet?”
An immediate answer to our rousing inquiry is no, the Norwegian Buhund doesn’t specifically ‘need’ specially tailored dog food. Nonetheless – and here’s the interesting part – a nutrition plan that is as unique as their historical significance indeed can contribute in their hale and hearty existence; let alone a more agile, aesthetically pleasing Norwegian Buhund!
This captivating breed of dog is part of the herding category and is known for its incredible energy levels. On an average, they love spending around an hour each day indulging in serious exercise. Given their inexhaustible vigor, their dietary requirements need to support their pedigree characteristics as agile working dogs.
Standard dog foods often aim to accommodate an extensive range of dog breeds and sizes. While they can fulfill average nutrition requirements, they may not be the optimal choice for a dog breed with unique requirements like the Norwegian Buhund.
The Buhund is a muscular, medium-sized dog with a healthy appetite that harmonizes with its energy requirements. To cater to these individualities, particular attention needs to be paid to maintain an excellent balance of protein, fats, carbohydrates, and micronutrients in their meals.
Right at the helm, the diet should chart high-quality, lean proteins that must constitute around 18%-25% of a Buhund’s diet. Protein sources can vary from chicken, beef, fish to lentils. Protein helps in maintaining their gorgeous, sleek, and sturdy physique, and promotes the health of their double-coat.
Fats should not exceed 15% of a Buhund’s diet and must originate from wholesome sources like flaxseeds and fish oils. This assists in preserving the quality of their coat and provides the calories necessary for them to sustain their high energy levels.
Whole grains like brown rice, oatmeal, and fruits & vegetables, are excellent sources of carbohydrates and fibers that assist in maintaining a healthy gut. Moreover, the addition of Vitamin E, Omega-3, and Omega-6 are great for promoting neurological health and a lustrous coat.
Coming towards micronutrients, a Norwegian Buhund would thrive on dog foods boosted with Glucosamine and Chondroitin. These compounds are exceptional for promoting joint health, a common concern in this breed as they age.
When selecting food for your Buhund, ensuring the food contains a balance of these ingredients rather than just banking on generic dog food, will result in a healthier, happier, and potentially longer-living dog.
Feeding puppies and elderly Buhunds warrant an additional layer of caution. Puppies need more calorie-dense food owing to their high growth rate, while the elderly dogs require foods that are gentle on their digestive system, and enriched with compounds that promote joint health.
While commercially available dry kibbles for puppies and mature dogs are often a popular choice due to convenience, many Buhund owners have found success in home-made preparations of meat and veggies.
The final verdict: While a Norwegian Buhund can comfortably live on regular dog chow, owners who invest the time to understand and cater to their unique nutritional needs will be rewarded with a pet that lives a fuller, healthier life.
In all its splendid glory, the Norwegian Buhund is indeed a wonder to behold. With a balanced diet meticulously adjusted to their athletic lineage, they can continue to make history, one bark at a time!
