Norrbottenspitz
Summary
The Norrbottenspitz is a small Swedish hunting dog developed in northern Sweden (Norrbotten) primarily for hunting large forest birds, such as the capercaillie and the black grouse, but also capable of working with other types of game. It was considered extinct for some time in the 20th century, but Swedish preservation programs managed to reconstitute the breed. It is an agile and hardy Spitz, optimized for forest terrain.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Small
- Height (male)
- 45 cm
- Height (female)
- 42 cm
- Weight (male)
- 8–15 kg
- Weight (female)
- 7–12 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 14–17 years
- Coat
- Double; short, hard, and straight outer coat; fine and dense undercoat
- Common Colors
- White with well-defined patches in shades of red, yellow, or fawn (fire color)
Temperament & Personality
The Norrbottenspitz is a confident, lively, and good-natured dog, with a keen hunting instinct but a welcoming temperament at home. It is intelligent, easy to train for its functions, and affectionate with the family. It has the vocalization tendency characteristic of Nordic hunting dogs and should be trained to manage its barking.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- High
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 60 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Low
- Shedding
- Moderate
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 6–8 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Generally very healthy and long-lived breed
- Hip dysplasia possible
- Recommended Health Tests
- Hip evaluation
Compatibility
- With Children
- Good
- With Other Dogs
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Acceptable
