Crackling hearths, wandering fjords, and the aurora borealis dancing in the sky… These quintessential sights and sounds of Norway spell magic for everyone. But for the natives, there’s another equally endearing symbol of their homeland- the sprightly and faithful, Norwegian Buhund.
You might have come across this adorable breed and been charmed by its intelligence, friendly temperament, and especially its stunning good looks. But then, dog owners would know that beauty, like everything else, comes with a cost. And in the case of the Norwegian Buhund, it is potentially a heap-load of shedding!
Does this mean that owning this beautiful breed equals a lifetime sentence of constantly wielding the vacuum cleaner, or resigning to a life drowned in the sea of dog hair? Thankfully, it’s not that daunting. But before we help you navigate through the shedding seasons of a Buhund, let’s dive into some fascinating facts about this breed you might not know before.
Named after the Norwegian word for homestead (bu) and dog (hund), the Norwegian Buhund is a friendly and intelligent breed that is right at home in cold climates. Historically, these dogs were bred to herd sheep and cattle, guard homesteads, and even hunt game. A Viking’s voyage was incomplete without a Buhund by his side, with canine remains discovered in Viking burial sites dating as far back as 900 AD. Known for their extreme agility and natural instinct towards guarding, Norwegian Buhunds are all-rounders and a favorite among dog lovers and farmers alike.
Shedding isn’t unique to the Buhund breed. It is, in fact, a normal process for most dogs. Like us, dogs also have hair growth cycles where old hair is replaced by new ones. Problems arise when the canine sheds excessively, spreading those fine locks all over your home. So, does a Norwegian Buhund shed a lot?
The quick answer is yes – Buhunds are indeed moderately high shedders. They possess a double coat, consisting of a dense, soft undercoat that insulates them from the frigid Norwegian climate, and a smooth, hard upper coat that repels water. These furry buddies will shed their undercoats twice a year, typically during spring and fall, and their overcoats year-round.
During shedding season, it might seem like tufts of hair are exploding off your pet. But don’t let that discourage you from welcoming a Buhund into your life. Armed with the right tools and a little understanding of the process, dealing with dog hair doesn’t have to be as daunting as it seems.
Regular grooming is key. Brushing your Buhund several times a week will significantly reduce the hair-mess around the house. Grooming isn’t just about keeping your home free from dog hairs, it is also essential for your pet’s wellbeing. It removes dead fur and dirt, distributes the natural oils in your dog’s coat, stimulates better skin health, and reduces the risk of skin infections. Plus, it’s great bonding time with your pet!
Tools like slicker brushes, deshedding tools, and undercoat rakes are your best friends during the shedding season. Remember to groom slowly and gently to avoid scraping your Buhund’s skin. We recommend doing this activity outside, perhaps in your backyard, to reduce indoor clean-up.
Bathing your Buhund too can help loose hair fall out more easily. Use a dog-appropriate shampoo and follow up with a good conditioner to nourish their double coat and reduce hair fall. After bathing, towel-dry your Buhund or dry him completely before grooming to prevent knots and tangles.
Diet plays an important role in your dog’s overall health and, in turn, its shedding. Feed your Buhund high-quality dog food rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. These nutrients promote better skin health and a shinier, healthier coat, reducing excessive shedding.
Remember, owning any pet comes with a certain trade-off, and for all the joy a Norwegian Buhund brings into your life, a bit of shedding is a small price to pay. Understand your dog’s shedding pattern, equip yourself with the right tools, and commit to regular grooming. You’ll be navigating through the shedding seasons like a pro. After all, what’s a bit of fur compared to the unconditional love, loyalty, and delightful companionship that a Buhund promises!
