A truly remarkable hard-working dog: the Norrbottenspets is a fascinating breed that possesses several qualities that is sure to capture the hearts of dog lovers. It may not be as popular compared to other breeds, but this breed left a significant impact when to comes to the field. It has an elegant appearance that would make heads turn on the streets. Along with its beautiful appearance, it showcases a courageous and sharp nature, making it capable for working as a hunter.
The Norrbottenspets is a unique breed that is a perfect choice for dog enthusiasts looking for a canine companion. If you are looking for a good-looking dog that is also an excellent working dog and family pet, the Norrbottenspets is no doubt a dog you should consider owning.
In this article, we are going to look into the different characteristics, as well as the origins of the Norrbottenspets.
Origins of the Norrbottenspets
Most people often categorize spitz dogs as hairy dogs that originated from the northern regions. We can easily identify the appearance of spitz dogs, mainly because of their beautiful hair and tail. These features are commonly seen in the Norrbottenspets, which is a spitz-type breed.
Despite the interesting characteristics of the Norrbottenspets, there is no exact record of the breed’s history. However, many people believe that the breed came from a small Laika type breed that we can trace back the origins to prehistoric times. These small dogs used to dominate the hunting field, along with people in the North Cape.
During this time, hunting was a significant activity in different parts of the globe. It is a means of survival for prehistoric people, which is where food and clothes came from. That is why small hunting dogs were common companions in the hunting field, helping humans in hunting. The breed continued to develop over the years and resulted to a breed that is more suitable for working in the field.
However, changes in society led to horrific results to the Norrbottenspets. After World War II, fur prices dropped drastically, which left the breed unemployed for a long time; its population dropped catastrophically and reached the brink of extinction. Years later, the breed was declared as extinct by the Swedish Kennel Club.
Thankfully, breeders found a surviving specimen decades later. These dogs were living with people as family companions in North Bothnia. This wonderful moment led the breed’s restoration process, and eventually, the breeders succeeded in reviving the breed. It may not be as glorious compared to when it first existed, but the breed surely kept most of its excellent traits. It was reregistered in Sweden as the Norrbottenspets with its new standard.
Moreover, after registering the new standard for the Norrbottenspets, breeders continued to work on developing the breed further. They tried to find more breed specimen that is similar to the standard, which is a way to get a stronger foundation of the breed. The breeders succeeded in gathering more foundations for the breed, wherein they found in Finland.
Today, the Norrbottenspets remained to be a significant breed capable of working in various types of canine tasks. It was then introduced to other countries, which boosted its population over the years.
Characteristics of the Norrbottenspets
Height: 16.5 – 18 inches
Weight: 20 – 30 pounds
Life Expectancy: 14 – 17 years
Hypoallergenic: No
The Norrbottenspets is a sturdy and agile breed that is a clear definition of a working dog. It is a medium-sized breed that could stand up to eighteen inches tall and weighs up to thirty pounds. This size is relatively bigger compared to other spitz-type dogs, but it is not big enough to be classified as a large dog. Despite its medium-sized body, this breed is strong enough to get the job done.
Speaking of its job, the Norrbottenspets is a working dog that was mainly used for hunting. Its early existence surely proves its reputation as a hunting dog. Interestingly, it is not just a breed that excels in hunting; it also dominates other fields, such as guarding, sports, and so on. A wide-scope of skills is what makes this dog a versatile worker. Furthermore, besides its incredible expertise in the field, the Norrbottenspets is perfect for being a lovable family companion.