Quick Links: Table of Contents
- Norwegian Buhund Versus Pyrenean Shepherd: Introduction
- Norwegian Buhund versus Pyrenean Shepherd: Overview
- Norwegian Buhund versus Pyrenean Shepherd: Comparison Table
- The Most Remarkable Differences Between the Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd
- The Similarities Between the Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd
- Size (Weight and Height) of Norwegian Buhund versus Pyrenean Shepherd
- Lifespan of Norwegian Buhund versus Pyrenean Shepherd
- Adopting the Norwegian Buhund versus Adopting the Pyrenean Shepherd
- The Popularity of Norwegian Buhund versus Popularity of Pyrenean Shepherd
- Health Problems of Norwegian Buhund versus Health Problems of Pyrenean Shepherd
- Tolerates Being Alone: Norwegian Buhund versus Pyrenean Shepherd
- Do Norwegian Buhunds shed more than Pyrenean Shepherds?
- Which one drools more, the Norwegian Buhund or the Pyrenean Shepherd
- Which is Easier to Groom, the Norwegian Buhund or the Pyrenean Shepherd?
- Does the Norwegian Buhund Have a Higher Prey Drive than the Pyrenean Shepherd?
- Do Norwegian Buhunds Bark and Howl? What about Pyrenean Shepherds?
- Can Norwegian Buhunds Tolerate Cold Weather? And can Pyrenean Shepherds Tolerate Cold Weather?
- Wanderlust Potential: Norwegian Buhund vs. Pyrenean Shepherd
- Can Norwegian Buhunds Tolerate Hot Weather? Can Pyrenean Shepherds Tolerate Hot Weather?
- Which Dog Breed is more Dog-Friendly, the Norwegian Buhund or the Pyrenean Shepherd?
- Are Norwegian Buhunds good family dogs? What about Pyrenean Shepherds?
- How Kid-friendly are Norwegian Buhunds and Pyrenean Shepherds?
- Is the Norwegian Buhund Easier to Train than the Pyrenean Shepherd?
- Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the Norwegian Buhund
- Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the Pyrenean Shepherd
- Other Breed Comparisons that Might Interest You
- Conclusion: Norwegian Buhund versus Pyrenean Shepherd. Which One is a Better Pet?
Norwegian Buhund Versus Pyrenean Shepherd: Introduction
Are you thinking of getting a new pet dog, and you have narrowed down your choices to the Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd? Well, you have come to the right place. Because in this article, we will provide you with a detailed comparison of these two dog breeds to help you decide which of the Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd better suits you.
We will provide you a detailed discussion and comparison of dog attributes such as intelligence, price, general health, friendliness, etc, for both the Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd.
Furthermore, we will let you know which one of the Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd is better suited for new dog owners, for owners with kids, for owners that live in apartments, for owners with dog allergies, etc.
Importantly, we did some analysis and calculation and we obtained a number that we call the Better-Pet Score™ for both the Norwegian Buhund and for the Pyrenean Shepherd. The dog breed with the higher Better-Pet score is the `better` pet. We hope that these Better-Pet Scores will provide you with more insight into deciding which pet to get between the Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd.
Our only goal here is to help you make a well-thought-out decision on your next long-term companion, be it the Norwegian Buhund or the Pyrenean Shepherd.
Norwegian Buhund versus Pyrenean Shepherd: Overview
A very important difference between the Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd is the size difference between the two dog breeds. The Norwegian Buhund is a medium-sized dog while the Pyrenean Shepherd is a small-sized dog.
Furthermore, both the Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd are Herding Dogs. This means both the Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd were bred for moving livestock, including sheep, cattle, and even reindeer. Herding dogs work closely with their human shepherds, and their natural intelligence and responsiveness make them highly trainable. They have high levels of energy, which needs to be channeled properly to prevent destructive behavior. Herding breeds are protective of their people and property and make excellent watchdogs. Their intelligence, agility, and activity level make them well suited to dog sports.
Norwegian Buhund versus Pyrenean Shepherd: Comparison Table
The table below compares the Norwegian Buhund to the Pyrenean Shepherd based on different important factors such as Price, Health, Kid-friendliness, etc.
When a dog breed scores higher for a factor than the other dog breed, the box of the breed that scores higher is shaded green and the box of the breed that scores lower is shaded red. When there is no difference between the breeds for a particular factor then the box is shaded gray for both pets. Also, when the factor is not important in picking a pet, or when the factor cannot be compared between two pets, the box for the factor is shaded gray for both pets
Most of the factors in the table for each dog breed are ranked on a scale of 1 to 5. “1” means “worst”, and “5” means “best”.
However, some factors such as “Price”, “Average Lifespan”, etc. cannot be on a scale of 1 to 5, so they are not on a scale of 1 to 5 in the comparison table.
Later in this article, we will further explain each factor as it applies to the Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd
| Factor | Norwegian Buhund | Pyrenean Shepherd |
|---|---|---|
| Does NOT Drool | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Life Span | 12 to 15 years | 15 to 17 years |
| Height | 16 to 18 inches tall at the shoulder | 15 to 21 inches tall at the shoulder |
| Tolerates Hot Weather | 2/5 | 3/5 |
| Easy To Groom | 2/5 | 3/5 |
| Low Prey Drive | 4/5 | 2/5 |
| Weight | 26 to 40 pounds | 25 to 30 pounds |
| Adapts Well To Apartment Living | 3/5 | 5/5 |
| Good For Novice Owners | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Easygoing | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Dog Friendly | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Friendly Toward Strangers | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Does NOT Shed | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Potential NOT to Gain Weight | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Intelligence | 3/5 | 4/5 |
| Does NOT chew on things | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Tolerates Being Alone | 4/5 | 1/5 |
| General Health | 4/5 | 2/5 |
| Easy To Train | 4/5 | 2/5 |
| Does NOT Bark or Howl | 2/5 | 1/5 |
| Tendency NOT to Wander | 2/5 | 4/5 |
| NOT Rambunctious | 2/5 | 2/5 |
| Calmness/ Low Vigor | 2/5 | 1/5 |
| Tolerates Cold Weather | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| Affectionate With Family | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Kid-Friendly | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Minimal Exercise Needs | 1/5 | 1/5 |
| Potential For Playfulness | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Average Lifespan | 13.5 years | 16.0 years |
| Price Range | No Data | No Data |
| Average Price | No Data | No Data |
| Common Health Problems and Recommended Health Tests |
|
|
| Popularity out of 200 Dog Breeds | 168 | 178 |
Next, we added the scores of the factors that can be added together for the Norwegian Buhund in the table (that is, `Ease of Grooming` score + `General Health` score + `Calmness` score + …etc) and we compared it to the corresponding total score for the Pyrenean Shepherd. We call these total scores the Better-Pet Scores, as we mentioned earlier. We called this score the Better-Pet score because the better dog breed will have a higher score. This is because the pet will the higher score will have minimal needs and be easier to have as a pet.
The Better-Pet score for the Norwegian Buhund is 81 out of 125 while the Better-Pet score for the Pyrenean Shepherd is 72 out of 125.
Based on their Better-Pet scores, the Norwegian Buhund is a better pet than the Pyrenean Shepherd. So, you should get the Norwegian Buhund!
Although we have done our best to analyze these two dog breeds in a very unbiased way, however, we will like to let you know that there are some dog attributes that cannot be assigned a number for comparison. We cannot put a number on how cute a dog breed is, for example. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Also, the dog breed that best suits you will depend on your peculiar lifestyle, your taste, and your priorities, which we do not know. So, for you to decide on which breed is right for you, read through the rest of the article to further understand both the Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd so that you can make your own well-informed decision on which pet to get.
The Most Remarkable Differences Between the Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd
Below is a list of where the Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd are most different:
The Similarities Between the Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd
The Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd are very similar in certain aspects. Below is the list of where the Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd are most similar:
Size (Weight and Height) of Norwegian Buhund versus Pyrenean Shepherd
Now, let us discuss the difference in size between the Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd.
Norwegian Buhunds weigh 26 to 40 pounds when fully grown. Norwegian Buhunds are 16 to 18 inches tall at the shoulder when fully grown.
On the other hand, Pyrenean Shepherds weigh 25 to 30 pounds when fully grown. Pyrenean Shepherds are 15 to 21 inches tall at the shoulder when fully grown.
Lifespan of Norwegian Buhund versus Pyrenean Shepherd
The lifespan of Norwegian Buhunds is between 12 to 15 years. The average lifespan of Norwegian Buhunds is 13.5 years.
The lifespan of Pyrenean Shepherds is between 15 to 17 years. The average lifespan of Pyrenean Shepherds is 16.0 years.
Pyrenean Shepherds live longer than Norwegian Buhunds.
Adopting the Norwegian Buhund versus Adopting the Pyrenean Shepherd
You may consider adopting a dog instead of buying a puppy. Many Norwegian Buhunds and many Pyrenean Shepherds are currently available for adoption.
These adorable and cute dogs are waiting in dog shelters hoping that someday someone will rescue them. Furthermore, adoption costs are lesser than the cost of a new puppy. Dog adoption costs are usually around $300. In addition to your local dog shelter, a good place online to see dogs that are available for adoption is petfinder.com.
Below is an adorable Male Norwegian Buhund named Odie that is currently available for adoption on Petfinder.com. You can find other lovely adoptable Norwegian Buhunds like Odie on pefinder.com.
Also, like Norwegian Buhunds, Pyrenean Shepherds are also available for adoption. For example, Boone is a Male Pyrenean Shepherd that is currently available for adoption on petfinder.com. You can find more Pyrenean Shepherds like Boone that are up for adoption on petfinder.com.
You can find more Norwegian Buhunds and Pyrenean Shepherds that are available for adoption on petfinder.
The Popularity of Norwegian Buhund versus Popularity of Pyrenean Shepherd
Every year, the American Kennel Club (AKC) publishes information on how popular a dog breed is in that particular year. The AKC gets the popularity information of a breed from how many dogs of that breed the owners register with the AKC every year. The AKC collects this data for about 200 dog breeds. The AKC collects this data for purebred dogs only(no mixed or hybrid dogs).
The graphs and the table below show the popularity of the Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd over the years.
Based on the AKC popularity data over the years, the Norwegian Buhund is more popular with dog owners than the Pyrenean Shepherd. This is because, over the years, the average popularity of the Norwegian Buhund is 168 out of about 200 dog breeds while the average popularity of the Pyrenean Shepherd is 178 out of about 200 dog breeds.
Popularity of Norwegian Buhund
Popularity of Pyrenean Shepherd
| Year | Norwegian Buhund Popularity Rank | Pyrenean Shepherd Popularity Rank |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 166 | 169 |
| 2014 | 172 | 178 |
| 2015 | 165 | 176 |
| 2016 | 174 | 176 |
| 2017 | 170 | 180 |
| 2018 | 165 | 181 |
| 2019 | 169 | 182 |
| 2020 | 168 | 182 |
Health Problems of Norwegian Buhund versus Health Problems of Pyrenean Shepherd
Every dog breed has its own set of health problems that it has a tendency to develop. There is nothing like a perfect dog breed.
Both the Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd are prone to certain genetic health conditions. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) is the organization that keeps track of health problems in dogs. Based on the extensive records that the OFA keeps, the OFA knows what health problems each dog breed is naturally prone to develop. Hence, the OFA recommends which health screening that breeders should perform on a dog breed to make sure that the breeders won`t breed `defective` dog parents that can pass down defective genes to their puppy offspring.
The more health problems a dog breed is prone to develop, the more health tests the OFA will recommend for that dog breed.
Based on our review of OFA records, we found that the Pyrenean Shepherd is prone to more genetic health problems than the Norwegian Buhund.
This is because the OFA recommends more screening health tests for the Pyrenean Shepherd than for the Norwegian Buhund.
3 health tests are recommended for Norwegian Buhund while 5 tests are recommended for the Pyrenean Shepherd.
Below is a detailed discussion of health problems in Norwegian Buhunds and in Pyrenean Shepherds.
Norwegian Buhund Health Problems
Norwegian Buhunds are genetically prone to certain health problems. However, breeders can reduce the chances of producing Norwegian Buhund puppies with genetic defects by making sure that a puppy`s parents are free from genetic health problems before allowing the parent to make puppies.
The OFA provides breeders recommendations on which genetic diseases that breeders should screen their dog parents and puppies for.
If you want a Norwegian Buhund puppy that will grow up to be healthy, make sure that your Norwegian Buhund breeder screens your puppy or your puppy`s parents for the health problems that the OFA recommends for your puppy`s breed. This will increase the chances that your puppy is free from genetic defects.
The following are the health tests that Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) recommends that breeders should screen Norwegian Buhunds for:
You can find out more about OFA`s recommended tests for Norwegian Buhunds here.
Pyrenean Shepherd Health Problems
Pyrenean Shepherds are genetically prone to certain health problems. However, breeders can reduce the chances of producing Pyrenean Shepherd puppies with genetic defects by making sure that a puppy`s parents are free from genetic health problems before allowing the parent to make puppies.
The OFA provides breeders recommendations on which genetic diseases that breeders should screen their dog parents and puppies for.
If you want a Pyrenean Shepherd puppy that will grow up to be healthy, make sure that your Pyrenean Shepherd breeder screens your puppy or your puppy`s parents for the health problems that the OFA recommends for your puppy`s breed. This will increase the chances that your puppy is free from genetic defects.
The following are the health tests that Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) recommends that breeders should screen Pyrenean Shepherds for:
You can find out more about OFA`s recommended tests for Pyrenean Shepherds here.
More Discussions on Health Problems in Norwegian Buhunds and Pyrenean Shepherds
Based on our analysis of data from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, of all known genetic health problems in dogs, the health problem that is most commonly seen in the Norwegian Buhund Breed is Eyes problems.
This is because the Norwegian Buhund ranks 35 out of 182 dog breeds for Eyes problems. In fact, in a health test conducted on 244 Norwegian Buhunds, 7 of them had Eyes problems.
The genetic diseases that were found to commonly occur in Norwegian Buhunds, and how common these diseases are in Norwegian Buhunds relative to other dog breeds, are given below:
Based on our analysis of data from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, of all known genetic health problems in dogs, the health problem that is most commonly seen in the Pyrenean Shepherd Breed is Dentition Database problems.
This is because the Pyrenean Shepherd ranks 24 out of 49 dog breeds for Dentition Database problems. In fact, in a health test conducted on 79 Pyrenean Shepherds, 4 of them had Dentition Database problems.
The genetic diseases that were found to commonly occur in Pyrenean Shepherds, and how common these diseases are in Pyrenean Shepherds relative to other dog breeds, are given below:
The table below lists the common health problems in Norwegian Buhund and in Pyrenean Shepherd and the rank (prevalence), compared to other dogs, of these health problems in the Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd:
| Disease | Norwegian Buhund Rank | Pyrenean Shepherd Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Eyes problems | 35 out of 182 dog breeds | 44 out of 182 dog breeds |
| Hips problems | 131 out of 198 dog breeds | 71 out of 198 dog breeds |
| Dentition Database problems | Not Common | 24 out of 49 dog breeds |
| Congenital Cardiac problems | Not Common | 27 out of 159 dog breeds |
| Patella problems | Not Common | 72 out of 145 dog breeds |
*To learn more about each of these diseases, go to OFA.org and search for the disease.
Again, most of these health problems can be prevented through health screening. Responsible breeders screen male and female dog parents for genetic problems. These breeders will only breed dogs that are free of genetic defects. That way, there is little or no chance that their puppies will grow up to have genetic health problems. Always ask a breeder for the list of health tests the breeder screens their dogs for before buying a puppy from such a breeder.
Tolerates Being Alone: Norwegian Buhund versus Pyrenean Shepherd
Norwegian Buhunds can be left alone for some time without problems.
Pyrenean Shepherds do not like to be left alone.
Do Norwegian Buhunds shed more than Pyrenean Shepherds?
Norwegian Buhunds shed moderately.
Pyrenean Shepherds shed moderately.
Which one drools more, the Norwegian Buhund or the Pyrenean Shepherd
Norwegian Buhunds do have a very low tendency to drool.
Pyrenean Shepherds do have a very low tendency to drool.
Which is Easier to Groom, the Norwegian Buhund or the Pyrenean Shepherd?
Norwegian Buhunds require a lot of grooming and they are not very easy to groom.
Pyrenean Shepherds are moderately easy to groom.
Does the Norwegian Buhund Have a Higher Prey Drive than the Pyrenean Shepherd?
Norwegian Buhunds have a very low prey drive. This means they get won`t chase after smaller pets. They tend to get along well with other pets.
Pyrenean Shepherds have a high prey drive. They have the tendency to chase after smaller animals and pets. They do not get along well with other pets.
Do Norwegian Buhunds Bark and Howl? What about Pyrenean Shepherds?
Norwegian Buhunds are highly vocal. They have the tendency to bark and howl.
Pyrenean Shepherds are highly vocal. They have the tendency to bark and howl.
Can Norwegian Buhunds Tolerate Cold Weather? And can Pyrenean Shepherds Tolerate Cold Weather?
Norwegian Buhunds can very well tolerate cold weather.
Pyrenean Shepherds can very well tolerate cold weather.
Wanderlust Potential: Norwegian Buhund vs. Pyrenean Shepherd
Norwegian Buhunds have a high tendency to wander. They are easily distracted by other animals or objects.
Pyrenean Shepherds do not have the potential to wander after things that capture their attention. They tend to stay around where you leave them.
Can Norwegian Buhunds Tolerate Hot Weather? Can Pyrenean Shepherds Tolerate Hot Weather?
Norwegian Buhunds cannot tolerate hot weather. They are not suited for hot environments.
Pyrenean Shepherds can tolerate hot weather as long as the weather is not too hot.
Which Dog Breed is more Dog-Friendly, the Norwegian Buhund or the Pyrenean Shepherd?
Norwegian Buhunds get along fairly well with other dogs.
Pyrenean Shepherds do not get along well with other dogs.
Are Norwegian Buhunds good family dogs? What about Pyrenean Shepherds?
Norwegian Buhunds are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.
Pyrenean Shepherds are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.
How Kid-friendly are Norwegian Buhunds and Pyrenean Shepherds?
Norwegian Buhunds get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.
Pyrenean Shepherds get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.
Is the Norwegian Buhund Easier to Train than the Pyrenean Shepherd?
Norwegian Buhunds are very easy to train.
Pyrenean Shepherds are not easy to train.
Is the Norwegian Buhund Better for Apartment Owners than the Pyrenean Shepherd?
Norwegian Buhunds adapt moderately well to apartment living.
Pyrenean Shepherds adapt very well to apartment living.
Which is Better for New Dog Owners, the Norwegian Buhund or the Pyrenean Shepherd?
Norwegian Buhunds are OK for new dog owners.
Pyrenean Shepherds are not the best dogs for new dog owners.
Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the Norwegian Buhund
Furthermore, there are other dog breeds that are very similar to the Norwegian Buhund that you can consider on your quest to get the best pet.
We crunched the numbers and found that the following dog breeds have similar personality and temperament as the Norwegian Buhund:
Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the Pyrenean Shepherd
Furthermore, there are other dog breeds that are very similar to the Pyrenean Shepherd that you can consider on your quest to get the best pet.
We crunched the numbers and found that the following dog breeds have similar personality and temperament as the Pyrenean Shepherd:
Other Breed Comparisons that Might Interest You
You may also be interested in how the Norwegian Buhund and how the Pyrenean Shepherd compares to other breeds. So, see below the comparison of the Norwegian Buhund and of the Pyrenean Shepherd to other breeds:
Norwegian Buhund Versus Other Dog Breeds
Norwegian Buhund versus Kai Ken Norwegian Buhund versus Jack Russell Terrier Norwegian Buhund versus Labrador Retriever Norwegian Buhund versus Tibetan Terrier Norwegian Buhund versus English Setter Norwegian Buhund versus Yorkipoo Norwegian Buhund versus Black and Tan Coonhound Norwegian Buhund versus Shiranian Norwegian Buhund versus Akita Chow Norwegian Buhund versus Siberian Husky Norwegian Buhund versus Puggle Norwegian Buhund versus Chinook Norwegian Buhund versus Mastiff Norwegian Buhund versus Finnish Spitz Norwegian Buhund versus Chinese Shar-Pei Norwegian Buhund versus Australian Kelpie Norwegian Buhund versus Belgian Sheepdog Norwegian Buhund versus Swedish Vallhund Norwegian Buhund versus American Bulldog Norwegian Buhund versus Pug Norwegian Buhund versus Schnoodle Norwegian Buhund versus Bloodhound Norwegian Buhund versus Komondor Norwegian Buhund versus Dalmatian Norwegian Buhund versus Welsh Terrier
Pyrenean Shepherd Versus Other Dog Breeds
Pyrenean Shepherd versus Valley Bulldog Pyrenean Shepherd versus Chorkie Pyrenean Shepherd versus Cockapoo Pyrenean Shepherd versus Chinese Crested Pyrenean Shepherd versus English Springer Spaniel Pyrenean Shepherd versus Kuvasz Pyrenean Shepherd versus Japanese Chin Pyrenean Shepherd versus Akbash Pyrenean Shepherd versus American Staffordshire Terrier Pyrenean Shepherd versus Italian Greyhound Pyrenean Shepherd versus Plott Pyrenean Shepherd versus Kuvasz Pyrenean Shepherd versus Xoloitzcuintli Pyrenean Shepherd versus Mountain Cur Pyrenean Shepherd versus Portuguese Water Dog Pyrenean Shepherd versus Japanese Spitz Pyrenean Shepherd versus Goldendoodle Pyrenean Shepherd versus Bichon Frise Pyrenean Shepherd versus Brussels Griffon Pyrenean Shepherd versus Welsh Terrier Pyrenean Shepherd versus Basset Fauve de Bretagne Pyrenean Shepherd versus Lagotto Romagnolo Pyrenean Shepherd versus Pomapoo Pyrenean Shepherd versus Japanese Chin Pyrenean Shepherd versus Treeing Tennessee Brindle
Conclusion: Norwegian Buhund versus Pyrenean Shepherd. Which One is a Better Pet?
In summary, there is nothing like a better dog breed or a worse dog breed. The important question to ask is which dog breed better matches your interests and lifestyle. We hope our discussion above will help you in deciding which dog breed between the Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd better suits you and your family.