The Norwegian Hound (also known as Dunker) is a medium size strong dog that originated in Norway. This dog got its name from its developer, Herr Wilhalm Dunker, who created this breed in the beginning of 19th (1820 to be precise) century. The main purpose of development was to create a hare hunting dog. Russian Harlequin Hounds were crossed with reliable scent hounds to produce this breed.
The Dunker can hunt by scent rather than by sight. It is an elegant yet robust breed with sleekness of sighthound and rippling muscles of a scent hound. Its appearance displays endurance and power. The dog stands between 18.5 to 22.5 and weighs between 35-49 lbs. It has an elongated head with long and narrow muzzle. Eyes are large and dark with calm expression. Ears are long, thin, flat and carried close to the head. Black nose has wide and open nostrils. Topline is level with strong and straight back and broad chest with well sprung ribs. The tail is set at topline, thick and tapers to the end. It is usually carried straight. Moderate length coat is rough, dense and straight and comes in two colour varieties; blue with marbled pattern or tan/brown colour.
The Dunker is not well known outside its country of origin. The dog is NOT recognized by AKC however it is recognized by FCI and UKC.
