Origin: Sweden
Origin of Name: The Norrbottenspets has traditionally been kept as a hunting dog in Northern Sweden.
Size | Temperament | Shedding | Drooling | Monthly keeping cost | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Medium | Zero High |
Negligible Hair Everywhere |
Zero Excess |
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For centuries, people of the world's most northern cult have known a type of dog known as the breed. These Nordic breeds can be dainty just like the Allscan Malamute or like the Pomeranian, but the Spitz types share some traits. They have a deep tail that is tightly folded at the back, a wedge-shaped head that is usually a fox-like expression and erect. Norbotenspets (not-bo-tn-spets) are members of this ancient clan of cold weather predators and workers.
Norbotenspets (or Norbotenspitz in English) means Spitz from North Bothonia County and probably originated from the small Lyca type Spitz that was known to live with prey in prehistoric times in the North Cape region; Small prey spitzes have survived for thousands of years through natural selection. In the very harsh areas of the northern parts of the Scandinavian Peninsula, survival was needed for food and fur hunting. Precious furs such as sable, marten-skin and ermine were the only legitimate currency for centuries. When fur prices fell drastically after World War II, interest for Norbotenspitz increased. The breed disappeared and there was no registration for many years; Hence the Swedish Kennel Club (SKK) declared it extinct. But only a decade later, there were reports that some true-to-type specimens were found in the inland region of North Bornea to see dogs living as pets and in small homes. Due to the very dedicated work of some men, this old type of hunting spitz was saved. In 1967, Norbottenspitz was reintroduced to the registry in Sweden and a new standard was created. FCI accepted the new breed standard and the official name became Norbottenspenet.
Following the desire of the Swedish Cannel Club, the Finns began a search in the remote countryside of northern Finland for native dogs, which matched the standard for broadening the gene pool. They were successful and most of the foundation dogs came from Finland. The studbook is still open in Finland, but was closed in Sweden in the 1980s. Norbrotenspets has a population of about 1600 in Sweden and 1300 in Finland, with individuals scattered in a few tens worldwide.
In November 2007, Norbottenspets was accepted for the Foundation Stock Service of the American Kennel Club. As of November 2012, 181 Norbotenspets, 175 of these 3-generation pedigresses, were recorded with the Foundation Stock Service of the American Kennel Club.
The Norbottenspets are double-coated with a topcoat that is tough, short and straight and an undercoat that is fine and dense. They are very clever and clean dogs with no unpleasant odor. Beyond regular weekly grooming, very occasional baths will keep them clean and look their best. Their nails should be trimmed if necessary with a nail clipper or grinder to avoid overgrowth, splits, and cracks. The ear should be examined regularly to avoid a buildup of wax and debris, which may result in infection. The teeth should be brushed if necessary.
"As with all breeds, initial socialization and puppy training classes are recommended. This breed has a reputation for being difficult to house. However, in every other case, it is very easy to train them. For example, They like to perform tricks and learn new ones quickly. They respond very well to training based on positive rewards rather than harsh or negative methods. This breed is required to live with his family and is likely to result in undesirable behaviour if he is regularly left alone for long periods of time.
Nobles are lively, energetic and playful with an attractive and affectionate nature. Exercise options include playing time in the backyard, preferably being fired, or taking a walk several times a day. Exercise can also come in the form of indoor activities, such as sneaking, chasing a rolled ball on the floor, or learning new tricks. Some outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, and retrieving balls or flying discs can provide a good outlet for spending energy. If you live in an apartment, even a short walk in the hallway can give your dog some exercise, especially during inclement weather. Training for dog sports such as agility, obedience and rally can also be a great way to give your dog exercise.
Norbotenspet should perform well on high quality dog food, whether it is commercially manufactured or prepared with the supervision and approval of your vet. Any diet should be appropriate for the age of the dog (puppy, adult or senior). Some dogs are at risk of being overweight, so watch your dog's calorie consumption and weight level. Treatment training can be an important aid, but giving too much can lead to obesity. Know which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. If you have any concerns about your dog's weight or diet, check with your vet. Clean, fresh water must be available at all times.
Some dogs may face health challenges in their lives, but most Norbotenspets are healthy dogs. Working with a responsible breeder, prospective owners can acquire the education they need to know about specific health concerns within the breed.
Recommended health tests from the National Breed Club: