Dog Breeds - Norrbottenspets

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a breed is likely to exhibit towards family members and familiar individuals can vary. Certain breeds may display aloofness towards everyone except their owner, whereas others tend to treat everyone they know as their closest companion or best friend.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The level of tolerance and patience a breed exhibits towards children, as well as their overall family-friendly nature, can vary. It is important to note that dogs should always be supervised when interacting with young children or with children of any age who have limited exposure to dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The general friendliness of a breed towards other dogs can vary. While all dogs should be supervised during interactions and introductions with other dogs, some breeds have a natural predisposition to get along well with other dogs both in the home and in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair a breed is likely to leave behind can vary. Breeds that shed heavily will require more frequent brushing and are more likely to trigger allergies in certain individuals. Additionally, they may necessitate more regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to maintain a clean environment.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming and other coat maintenance tasks can vary among breeds. When considering the grooming needs of a breed, it's important to take into account the amount of time, patience and budget you have available for such care. All breeds, however, require regular nail trimming as part of their grooming routine.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency for a breed to drool can vary. If you have a preference for cleanliness and are a neat freak, it may be important to consider that some dogs have a propensity to leave drool trails on your arm or create large wet spots on your clothes. If this is a concern for you, it might be best to choose a breed that is less prone to excessive drooling.
COAT TYPE +
Double
COAT LENGTH +
Short

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The level of welcoming behavior a breed exhibits towards strangers can vary. Some breeds tend to be reserved or cautious around unfamiliar individuals, regardless of the location, while others are generally happy to meet and interact with new people whenever the opportunity arises.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of enthusiasm for play can vary among different breeds. While some breeds will continue to be enthusiastic about playing games like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years, others may prefer to relax on the couch and enjoy a more laid-back lifestyle. It is important to consider a breed's activity level and playfulness when determining if their energy matches your own and your desire for playtime interactions.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Certain breeds have a natural inclination to alert their owners when strangers are present. They are more likely to react to potential threats, such as the arrival of the mailman or even a squirrel outside the window. However, these breeds are still capable of warming up to strangers who enter the house and are accepted by the family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed in handling change is truly remarkable. This includes adjustments to living conditions, noise levels, weather patterns, daily schedules and various other aspects of everyday life.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
Dive into the realm of training your furry friend and witness the incredible inclination they have towards learning. Some breeds are naturally inclined to make their owners proud, while others have a preference for following their own desires at their own pace and wherever they choose.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The exercise and mental stimulation requirements vary between different dog breeds. High energy breeds exhibit great enthusiasm for engaging in activities and are always eager to embark on exciting adventures. Their typical day involves a lot of running, jumping and playing. On the other hand, low energy breeds resemble couch potatoes as they are content with lounging and peacefully dozing.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency at which a breed vocalizes, whether through barking or howling, can vary. Certain breeds tend to bark at every person walking by or a bird spotted through the window, while others reserve their barks for specific circumstances. It is worth noting that even barkless breeds may still find alternative ways to communicate and express themselves through other sounds.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The level of mental stimulation necessary for a breed to maintain their happiness and overall well-being is significant. Purpose-bred dogs often have specific tasks that demand decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other mental qualities. Without adequate mental exercise, they may resort to creating their own activities to keep their minds occupied and these projects might not align with your preferences or expectations. It is crucial to provide them with appropriate mental challenges to ensure their contentment and prevent any undesirable behaviors.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of affection a breed is likely to exhibit towards family members and familiar individuals can vary. Certain breeds may display aloofness towards everyone except their owner, whereas others tend to treat everyone they know as their closest companion or best friend.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

The level of tolerance and patience a breed exhibits towards children, as well as their overall family-friendly nature, can vary. It is important to note that dogs should always be supervised when interacting with young children or with children of any age who have limited exposure to dogs.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The general friendliness of a breed towards other dogs can vary. While all dogs should be supervised during interactions and introductions with other dogs, some breeds have a natural predisposition to get along well with other dogs both in the home and in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair a breed is likely to leave behind can vary. Breeds that shed heavily will require more frequent brushing and are more likely to trigger allergies in certain individuals. Additionally, they may necessitate more regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to maintain a clean environment.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming and other coat maintenance tasks can vary among breeds. When considering the grooming needs of a breed, it's important to take into account the amount of time, patience and budget you have available for such care. All breeds, however, require regular nail trimming as part of their grooming routine.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The tendency for a breed to drool can vary. If you have a preference for cleanliness and are a neat freak, it may be important to consider that some dogs have a propensity to leave drool trails on your arm or create large wet spots on your clothes. If this is a concern for you, it might be best to choose a breed that is less prone to excessive drooling.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Double

COAT SPECTRUM

Short

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The level of welcoming behavior a breed exhibits towards strangers can vary. Some breeds tend to be reserved or cautious around unfamiliar individuals, regardless of the location, while others are generally happy to meet and interact with new people whenever the opportunity arises.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The level of enthusiasm for play can vary among different breeds. While some breeds will continue to be enthusiastic about playing games like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years, others may prefer to relax on the couch and enjoy a more laid-back lifestyle. It is important to consider a breed's activity level and playfulness when determining if their energy matches your own and your desire for playtime interactions.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

Certain breeds have a natural inclination to alert their owners when strangers are present. They are more likely to react to potential threats, such as the arrival of the mailman or even a squirrel outside the window. However, these breeds are still capable of warming up to strangers who enter the house and are accepted by the family.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of a breed in handling change is truly remarkable. This includes adjustments to living conditions, noise levels, weather patterns, daily schedules and various other aspects of everyday life.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

Dive into the realm of training your furry friend and witness the incredible inclination they have towards learning. Some breeds are naturally inclined to make their owners proud, while others have a preference for following their own desires at their own pace and wherever they choose.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The exercise and mental stimulation requirements vary between different dog breeds. High energy breeds exhibit great enthusiasm for engaging in activities and are always eager to embark on exciting adventures. Their typical day involves a lot of running, jumping and playing. On the other hand, low energy breeds resemble couch potatoes as they are content with lounging and peacefully dozing.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Medium

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The level of mental stimulation necessary for a breed to maintain their happiness and overall well-being is significant. Purpose-bred dogs often have specific tasks that demand decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other mental qualities. Without adequate mental exercise, they may resort to creating their own activities to keep their minds occupied and these projects might not align with your preferences or expectations. It is crucial to provide them with appropriate mental challenges to ensure their contentment and prevent any undesirable behaviors.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
White	199

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Fawn Markings	008
Orange Markings	102
Red Patched	100
Sable	026
Tan Patches	090
Black Mask	004
Cream Markings	044

About The Breed

The Norrbottenspets is a compact and slightly rectangular spitz breed displaying a well-balanced physique with strong and lean muscles. They possess a remarkable alertness and carry their head high showcasing their fearless nature and incredible agility. Notably, they exhibit a calm demeanor and remain attentive, reflecting their kind disposition.

Despite not being large dogs (with males typically standing just under 20 inches in height), Norrbottenspets dogs are built with resilient sinewy bodies capable of withstanding demanding terrains and harsh climates. These small-sized hunting dogs of the Spitz-type were once considered extinct, but they managed to survive and thrive as farm and hunting companions in the northern regions of Sweden and Finland. Evolving to navigate the rugged landscapes and endure the harsh climate of Scandinavian forests, they developed exceptional agility, ruggedness and weather resistance. Additionally, they possess a fearless attitude enabling them to confront formidable game such as moose. However, this remarkable breed doesn't sacrifice their affectionate and amiable nature, as they make delightful and devoted companions at home. They exhibit a balanced combination of physical traits since they excel in various tasks and responsibilities.

What to Expect When Caring for A NORRBOTTENSPETS

Owning a dog is indeed a significant responsibility that extends far beyond providing the basic necessities of food and shelter. Dogs as sentient beings require a comprehensive level of care that encompasses physical health emotional well-being, and mental stimulation.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Norrbottenspets: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	Although a few dogs may face health challenges as they grow older, it is important to highlight that the vast majority of Norrbottenspets dogs generally enjoy good health. Collaborating with a reputable breeder enables prospective owners to acquire valuable insights regarding the breed's particular health considerations. Recommended Health Tests from the National Breed Club: Hip Evaluation Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Grooming

	The Norrbottenspets possesses a dual coat, consisting of a firm, short and straight topcoat complemented by a dense and fine undercoat. These dogs are highly intelligent and maintain their cleanliness without emitting any unpleasant odors. Aside from their regular weekly grooming needs, an occasional bath will suffice to ensure they stay fresh and maintain their pristine appearance. To prevent overgrowth, splitting and cracking, it is important to trim their nails as needed using a nail clipper or grinder. Regularly checking their ears is essential to avoid the accumulation of wax and debris, which can potentially result in infection. As for their oral hygiene, brushing their teeth should be done as necessary.

Exercise

	Nobs are full of life, bursting with energy and possess a playful nature coupled with an endearing and loving temperament. There are various options available to ensure they receive adequate exercise. For instance, engaging in backyard playtime preferably within a fenced area or taking them for multiple walks throughout the day are great choices. Indoor activities such as hide-and-seek, chasing a ball rolled along the floor or even learning new tricks can also provide stimulation and exercise. Outdoor activities like swimming, hiking or playing fetch with balls or flying discs serve as excellent outlets for expending their energetic nature. Even for those residing in apartments taking short walks in the hallways can offer exercise opportunities especially during unfavorable weather conditions. Engaging in dog sports like agility, obedience or rally training can also be a fantastic way to keep your dog active.

Training

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Nutrition

	The Norfolk Terrier is best served with a high-quality dog food, whether it is commercially produced or prepared at home under the guidance and approval of a veterinarian. It is crucial to ensure that the chosen diet is appropriate for the dog's specific age category, be it puppy, adult or senior. As certain dogs have a tendency to gain excess weight, it is important to carefully monitor their calorie intake and weight. While treats can be a valuable tool in training, it's important to avoid indulging them excessively, as this can lead to obesity. It is recommended to familiarize oneself with safe human foods for dogs while being aware of those that are not suitable. Should any concerns or inquiries arise regarding the dog's weight or diet, it is advisable to consult with a veterinarian. Lastly, it is essential to provide the Norfolk Terrier with clean and fresh water at all times.

Historiography

That's fascinating information about the Norrbottenspets, it’s always interesting to learn about different dog breeds and their histories. The Norrbottenspets is a member of the spitz family and has its origins in the northern parts of Scandinavia.

It's remarkable how the breed almost went extinct but was saved through the dedicated efforts of a few individuals. The fact that true-to-type specimens were discovered living as pets and watch dogs on small homesteads in North Bothnia is a testament to the resilience of this breed. Thanks to the hard work of these individuals, the Norrbottenspets was reintroduced to the Swedish Kennel Club and a new breed standard was established.

It's also intriguing to note that Finns played a role in broadening the gene pool of the Norrbottenspets by searching for native dogs in the remote countryside of North Finland. By doing so, they were able to contribute to the preservation and development of the breed.

The popularity and recognition of the Norrbottenspets spread internationally and it was accepted into the American Kennel Club's Foundation Stock Service in 2007. The breed is still relatively small in numbers with populations recorded in Sweden, Finland and a few individuals scattered around the world.

It's wonderful to see how a breed with such a rich history and cultural significance has been preserved and continues to thrive today.