Miniature American Shepherd vs Norwegian Buhund
Breed Compatibility
76% Compatible
Energy Level
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Norwegian Buhund: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Norwegian Buhund: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Norwegian Buhund: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Norwegian Buhund3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Norwegian Buhund3/5
Good with Strangers
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Norwegian Buhund3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defect
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Cataracts: Vision clouding concern
Norwegian Buhund
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Cataracts common
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap issues
Von Willebrand's: Blood disorder
Skin Allergies: Various triggers
Dental Issues: Regular care needed
Pros & Cons Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Versatile working ability
Compact size
Strong herding instincts
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct may need management
Requires consistent training
Norwegian Buhund
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Good with families
Excellent watchdog
Adaptable to different environments
Cons
High exercise needs
Can be vocal
Requires regular grooming
Strong herding instincts
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Norwegian Buhund Fun Fact
Viking age artifacts show these dogs were so valued they were often buried alongside their owners!
Heritage & Purpose
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds, these dogs were bred specifically for herding smaller livestock and companion work.
Norwegian Buhund
Origin:
Developed in Norway during the Viking age as versatile farm dogs, these skilled herders managed livestock and served as watchdogs across the Norwegian mountains.
Special Considerations
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Norwegian Buhund
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.