5 Breeds Of Nordic Dogs: Learn More Here!
They are very easy to recognize and identify due to their huge amount of fur. After all, this is what allows them to walk in the snow and withstand the cold without problems. In the following article, we will tell you more about some Nordic dog breeds.
What are the Nordic Dog Breeds?
Although they can now be found almost anywhere in the world, Nordic breeds or snow dogs were bred in what used to be very cold surroundings. For that reason, they have a very thick coat and are used to pull sleds. Some of them are:
1. Siberian Husky
Of course, we couldn’t start this list of Nordic dog breeds without talking about the most famous of all. The Siberian Husky – the image that opens this article – was created by a tribe as a companion animal. In addition, his main job was herding deer, pulling sledges and keeping the children warm.
Similar in appearance to a wolf, this dog is medium in size, has very thick white fur with black or brown areas. Also, in most cases, it has blue eyes. As for his habits, he’s an intelligent animal, howls instead of barking, and loves living in a pack. In addition, this animal demonstrates great resistance to physical exercise.
2. Samoyed
Did you know that this dog is known as “the always smiling”? This is due to the shape of your face. It is a breed from northern Russia, raised by nomadic herders to help with herding tasks. In addition, it is also useful for pulling sleds and warming up owners at night, as well as huskies.
Samoyed is completely white – it has a double layer of fur – with the exception of the nose and the eyes, which are black. Another distinguishing feature is the tail, which hangs like a “hook” on the back. He has a lot of vitality, but he is not good as a guardian. Above all, this animal maintains its youthfulness until old age.
3. Alaskan Malamute
It is one of the oldest dog breeds in charge of pulling sleds. He is similar to the wolf and has the ability to pull large loads for tens of kilometers. These animals have abundant grey, white and black fur, the tail curves over the back and the ears are pointed.
As for behavior, the Alaskan Malamute is quite playful, faithful to its master and protector of children. He likes outdoor and open spaces. In addition, he is intrepid, full of energy and prefers to be accompanied by other dogs in a pack.
4. Elkhound
This is one of the Nordic dog breeds that was born precisely in this region of Norway, where it is considered the national dog. The term Elkhound means “Moose Hunter”. This animal was so named because that was its first use.
Nowadays, it is also used as a hunting, herding, guardian or defense dog. It is very resistant to exercise and low temperatures. Furthermore, he is known for being brave and not fearing animals bigger than him. The fur is gray, white and black, and its body is very compact and robust.
5. Karelian Bear Dog
The last of the Nordic dog breeds on this list originates from the Karelian area of Finland. This animal was used from the beginning for hunting (especially of bears, hence its name). Its thick black coat with white patches allows it to adapt to harsh Scandinavian weather conditions.
This breed is very old, of medium size, robust and strong, with rounded ‘upwards’ ears, thick and arched tail. It is a brave, agile and very tenacious dog. Although all your senses are highly developed, sight and smell are your main characteristics.
