When deciding between an Icelandic Sheepdog and a Norwegian Buhund, understanding their temperaments is crucial. Both breeds hail from Nordic herding traditions and share some traits, but they also have distinctive personalities that suit different lifestyles and families. This listicle breaks down key temperament aspects of each breed to help prospective dog owners make an informed choice.
1. General Disposition
The Icelandic Sheepdog is famously cheerful and outgoing, often described as a “smiling” dog due to its expressive face and upbeat nature. It tends to be very friendly and approachable, eager to please and quick to bond with family members. In contrast, the Norwegian Buhund is alert and spirited, with a somewhat more reserved demeanor around strangers, reflecting its strong watchdog instincts.
2. Sociability with People
Icelandic Sheepdogs thrive on human companionship and are typically very affectionate with children and adults alike. They seek interaction and enjoy being part of family activities, making them excellent family pets. Norwegian Buhunds also bond closely with their families but may be more selective about who they warm up to, showing cautious friendliness toward visitors.
3. Energy Levels and Playfulness
Both breeds are energetic, but the Icelandic Sheepdog tends to have a more playful and exuberant energy, often described as clownish and entertaining. Norwegian Buhunds are agile and energetic as well, but their energy is more focused and purposeful, reflecting their herding heritage. They enjoy structured play and tasks that challenge their intelligence.
4. Trainability and Intelligence
Norwegian Buhunds are highly intelligent and eager to learn, responding well to consistent, positive training methods. They excel in obedience and agility sports due to their quick thinking. Icelandic Sheepdogs are also intelligent but can be a bit more independent, sometimes requiring patience and creativity from trainers to keep them motivated.
5. Herding Instincts
Both breeds have strong herding instincts, but the Norwegian Buhund’s background as a versatile farm dog means it often shows stronger herding behaviors, such as nipping at heels or circling. Icelandic Sheepdogs, while still herders, tend to be less intense and more social in their approach, often using vocalizations and eye contact to control livestock.
6. Vocal Tendencies
Icelandic Sheepdogs are known for their distinctive, expressive bark and often “talk” to their owners with a variety of sounds. They can be quite vocal, which suits their role as alert watchdogs. Norwegian Buhunds also bark to alert their owners but generally have a more reserved vocal style, barking primarily when necessary rather than frequently.
7. Adaptability to Living Environments
The Icelandic Sheepdog adapts well to active family environments and can tolerate apartment living if sufficiently exercised. Their social nature means they prefer not to be left alone for long periods. Norwegian Buhunds, due to their working background, do best in homes where they have space to roam and tasks to perform; they can become bored and destructive without enough mental and physical stimulation.
8. Socialization with Other Pets
Icelandic Sheepdogs generally get along well with other dogs and household pets, thanks to their friendly and easy-going temperament. Norwegian Buhunds can coexist peacefully with other pets but may show stronger territorial instincts, requiring early and ongoing socialization to ensure harmonious relationships.
9. Sensitivity and Emotional Responsiveness
Both breeds are sensitive to their owners’ moods and respond well to gentle, consistent handling. Icelandic Sheepdogs often display a sunny disposition and bounce back quickly from stress, while Norwegian Buhunds can be more reserved and cautious, sometimes needing extra reassurance in new situations.
10. Longevity and Health-Related Temperament Impact
Both breeds typically enjoy good health and longevity, with lifespans averaging 12 to 15 years. Their temperament is generally stable throughout life, but owners should be aware that both breeds can develop anxiety-related behaviors if under-stimulated or left isolated. Regular exercise and mental engagement are key to maintaining their cheerful and balanced temperaments.
How to Choose
When choosing between an Icelandic Sheepdog and a Norwegian Buhund, focus on your lifestyle and what temperament traits fit it best. If you want a highly social, playful companion who thrives on constant interaction, the Icelandic Sheepdog is a great match. For those seeking a more reserved but intelligent and alert dog with strong working instincts, the Norwegian Buhund may be preferable. Consider your living space, activity level, and how much time you can dedicate to training and socialization. Both breeds require mental stimulation and exercise, but the Buhund often demands more structured tasks, while the Sheepdog enjoys playful engagement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Icelandic Sheepdogs easier to train than Norwegian Buhunds?
Both breeds are intelligent, but Norwegian Buhunds often respond faster to training due to their strong work-drive and eagerness to please. Icelandic Sheepdogs can be a bit more independent, requiring patience.
Q: Which breed is better with children?
Icelandic Sheepdogs are generally more openly affectionate and playful with children, making them excellent family dogs. Norwegian Buhunds are good with kids too but may be more reserved.
Q: Do either breed make good watchdogs?
Both breeds have alert temperaments and will bark to alert owners, but Norwegian Buhunds tend to be more reserved and cautious, making them better watchdogs. Icelandic Sheepdogs are friendly but can be vocal and alert as well.
Q: How much exercise do these breeds need?
Both require daily physical and mental exercise; at least 1-2 hours of activity is recommended. Norwegian Buhunds may need more structured exercise like herding or agility work, while Icelandic Sheepdogs enjoy playful activities.
Q: Are these breeds prone to separation anxiety?
Yes, both breeds are social and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods without engagement. Early training and interactive toys can help reduce this risk.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between the Icelandic Sheepdog and the Norwegian Buhund largely depends on your household dynamic and what temperament qualities you value most. If you want a cheerful, outgoing, and highly social companion, the Icelandic Sheepdog offers a joyful presence with a playful spirit. For a more reserved, alert, and intelligent dog that thrives on purposeful activity, the Norwegian Buhund is a wonderful choice. Both breeds require commitment to exercise, training, and socialization to flourish as loving family members. Understanding these temperament nuances will help you select the dog best suited to your lifestyle and bring years of happiness and companionship.
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