Norrbottenspets, a Swedish spitz-type dog is known in its homeland as an excellent hunting dog, able to handle the long winters and deep snows to hunt birds, moose, and even bears. There are many legends of these dogs chasing away bears who have attacked their owners.
Norrbottenspets are 16.5 to 17.5 inches tall and weigh 25 to 30 pounds. The head is wedge-shaped, with moderately large, almond-shaped eyes and erect ears. The body is as long as the dog is tall at the shoulder. The chest is deep and the body strong. The tail reaches the hocks but is carried high and curls over the back. The undercoat is fine and dense, while the outer coat is hard, short, and straight. All colors are permitted, although white with red patches is the most common. This coat is easy to care for and requires twice weekly brushing. When the dog is shedding, additional brushing is advisable.
The Norrbottenspets is an active dog breed who will run alongside a bicycle or enjoy training on the agility course. A daily run or vigorous game of catch is necessary. A Norrbottenspets who does not get enough exercise will get into trouble. All exercise should be within a fenced yard, as these dogs still love to hunt and have a tendency to wander.
Although this dog breed can be quite independent, Norrbottenspets are intelligent, curious, and can be trained as long as the training is fun yet firm. Many of these dogs are serving admirably as search-and-rescue dogs. When hunting or searching, they have great stamina and work tirelessly. They are not watchdogs, although they can sometimes bark too much during play, which could cause problems with neighbors.
The Norrbottenspets needs an active owner who enjoys working with the dog. Although small to medium in size, this dog is not a lap dog; she needs a job to do. Affectionate and gentle, the breed is great with kids. She may not be trustworthy with smaller pets, though she is usually great with other dogs. This is a healthy, long-lived breed.