Technically speaking, the Pomeranian is a spitz-type dog, the smallest member of the subgroup, German Spitzen group which is made up of five different sizes of dogs. The smallest of all the Nordic primitive breeds, however, is the Norrbottenspets, the National Dog of Sweden.  This small breed (18 inches at the shoulder, and approximately 25 pounds) has a big personality that will win over those who encounter it, but therein lies the rub. 

Fewer than 360 are said to exist in North America, but even that is a step in the right direction because in 1948, the Norrbottenspets was declared extinct. Breed enthusiasts determined to resurrect this wonderful breed found the few remaining dogs in remote villages in the late 50s and started a successful breeding program that lead to the breed making a strong comeback. In 1967, the Swedish Kennel Club accepted the Norrbottenspets into its registry again, and a new standard was written which the FCI confirmed in 1966.  Happily, breed numbers are healthier abroad. The Norrbottenspets population is about 1,600 in Sweden and 1,300 in Finland.

The Norrbottenspets is classified as a hound, and for the right person or family, makes a delightful companion. In fact, the breed has been rated among the top 10 breeds for gentleness with children). What’s the right family? One that doesn’t mind shedding (twice a year), barking, and a slight doggie odor that hound people never really mind, if they notice it at all.

By the way, Norrbottenspets is pronounced “Nor-boat-en-spets.”

Image of “Karina” found on Pinterest – waiting to learn to whom photo credit should be given