Norrbottenspets: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

History, Care Tips, and Helpful Information for Pet Owners

The Norrbottenspets is a small to medium-sized spitz-type dog breed from Sweden with a short, dense double coat that typically comes in white with colored markings. They have wedge-shaped heads with upright ears, almond-shaped eyes, and tails carried high, curving over the back. Also known as the Nordic spitz, they once played an integral role in Scandinavia as hunting and farm dogs. This compact, muscular, well-balanced, and rugged breed can withstand rough terrain and climates.

These active and affectionate dogs are mainly seen as companion animals today. Learn about the Norrbottenspets dog breed and find out if this is the right dog for you and your family.

Breed Overview

Group: Miscellaneous

Height: 16.5 to 18 inches

Weight: 20 to 30 pounds

Coat: Short double coat

Coat Color: White with/without orange, fawn, or cream markings, red or tan patches, sable, and/or a black mask

Life Span: 14 to 17 years

Temperament: Active, affectionate, fearless

Hypoallergenic: No

Origin: Sweden

Characteristics of the Norrbottenspets

Norrbottenspets are energetic dogs who generally have sweet, attentive temperaments, but tend to bark when they get excited. They're loving with owners but not always tolerant of children. High energy also helps to shape this dog’s personality, and they prefer an active household.

History of the Norrbottenspets

Spitz-type dogs have existed in various forms in Scandinavia for centuries. The Norrbottenspets’ origin is unclear. But its name essentially means spitz from Norrbotten, a Swedish province. Its ancestors likely existed in the region for hundreds if not thousands of years when semi-wild dogs would serve as hunting companions for the people there.

Hunting for both food and fur was a necessity in this area for a long time. However, the demand for fur dropped after World War II, and the Norrbottenspets breed all but vanished as it was no longer needed for hunting. The remaining purebred dogs were located in Sweden and Finland, and breeding programs ensued to preserve the breed.

The American Kennel Club admitted the Norrbottenspets into its Foundation Stock Service, which helps to monitor breeding, in 2007. And it is now grouped in the AKC’s miscellaneous class. It still is quite uncommon in Scandinavia and very rare elsewhere.

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Norrbottenspets Care

The Norrbottenspets' primary need is activity—plan to spend a good amount of time each day exercising this breed. Grooming needs are fairly straightforward and the breed generally takes well to training.

Exercise

Aim for at least an hour or two of exercise for this bright and energetic dog every day. Brisk walks, jogging, hiking, swimming, and vigorous games of fetch all are ideal activities. Plus, dog sports, such as agility, can help challenge your dog mentally and physically. If they don’t receive enough mental stimulation and physical activity, the Norrbottenspets might become destructive, engaging in unwanted chewing or other disruptive behaviors.

Always keep Norrbottenspets on a leash or in a securely fenced area while outdoors. Otherwise, their prey drive might cause them to run off chasing small animals or other perceived prey.

Grooming

Brush your Norrbottenspets weekly to remove loose fur and any dirt. Expect periods of higher shedding, often when the weather changes in the spring and fall. You’ll likely have to brush a few times per week to keep up with the loose fur during these times.

Bathe your dog roughly once a month, depending on how dirty they get. This breed is known for a clean coat with minimal odor, but outdoor activities may change that. Check your dog’s ears at least weekly to see whether they need cleaning and trim the nails every month or so. When possible, try to brush your dog's teeth daily.

Training

Start training and socialization from as young of an age as possible to instill good manners and prevent bad habits. The intelligent Norrbottenspets generally does very well with positive-reinforcement training methods; avoid using harsh corrections. Also, try to make training sessions fun and varied to hold your dog’s attention.

Norrbottenspets may be somewhat reserved around strangers, so aim to expose them to different people and other dogs from an early age. Positive experiences can help to curb some of the breed's wariness.

Common Health Problems

Little is documented regarding the health of the Norrbottenspets, but with such a small population breeding is tightly controlled, and responsible breeders adhere to the breed standard. As a result, the breed is typically healthy with few hereditary health issues. Still, these dogs can experience age-related health issues just like any dog. The following health conditions are sometimes seen in the breed:

• Luxating patella

• Epilepsy

• Progressive rod-cone degeneration

Diet and Nutrition

Always have fresh water accessible for your Norrbottenspets and feed a quality canine diet with balanced nutrition, typically via two measured meals per day. Discuss the type of food and the amount with your veterinarian to meet your dog’s individual needs. Nutritional requirements vary based on age, activity level, and other factors. Use good judgment with treats and other extra food; don’t be talked into overfeeding by a persistent beggar.

Where to Adopt or Buy a Norrbottenspets

Finding a Norrbottenspets will likely be a tough task. This breed was once on the brink of extinction, and its numbers are still limited. Even so, it’s worth checking local animal shelters and rescue groups and getting your name on a breed wait list if possible. Responsible breeders also are generally few and far between. For a puppy from a reputable breeder, expect to pay around $2,000 to $3,000 on average and to wait some time for a puppy to become available.

For further information to help you find a Norrbottenspets, check out:

• American Kennel Club Breeder Listing

• American Norrbottenspets Association

• National Icelandic Sheepdog Rescue Alliance
  

Norrbottenspets Overview

Pros

• Typically affectionate with family

• Generally very healthy

• Good for active owners

Cons

• Very rare and thus can be difficult to find

• Needs ample exercise and mental stimulation

• Can have a high prey drive

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More Dog Breeds and Further Research

As with any breed, do thorough research before bringing home a Norrbottenspets to make sure it’s right for your lifestyle. Talk to breed owners, rescue organizations, reputable breeders, and veterinary professionals to learn more.

If you’re interested in similar breeds, check out:

• Finnish spitz

• American Eskimo

• Shiba Inu

There’s a whole world of potential dog breeds out there—with a little research, you can find the right one to bring home!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Norrbottenspets rare?

The Norrbottenspets is rare, especially outside of Scandinavia. The breed nearly went extinct during the 1900s, but its numbers are slowly climbing back up.

Are Norrbottenspets good family dogs?

The Norrbottenspets can be a good dog for families with respectful older children. However, it's not always tolerant of young children.

Are Norrbottenspets aggressive?

The Norrbottenspets is moderately reserved around strangers and other dogs. However, with proper training and socialization, it is generally not an aggressive dog.

Read the original article on The Spruce Pets.