Dunker
Other names
Norwegian Dunker, Norwegian Hound
Origin & history
The Dunker is a rare hunting dog breed originating from Norway. It was developed in the 19th century by Wilhelm Dunker, a Norwegian hunter who wanted to breed a dog suitable for hare hunting in the rugged Scandinavian landscape.
To achieve this, he crossed Russian Harriers with local Norwegian hunting dogs. The result was a strong, independent scenthound with exceptional scenting and endurance, easily adapting to Norway's harsh climate and hilly terrain.
Today, the Dunker is a rare but prized breed—especially among hunters who appreciate its determination, intelligence, and reliability.
Appearance & body shape
The Dunker is a medium-sized, elegant dog with a balanced and athletic build. It has a straight back, well-developed muscles, and long legs, making it suitable for long distances and difficult terrain.
Its coat is short, dense, and smooth, offering excellent protection against cold and wet conditions. The Dunker's most recognizable feature is its blue-gray marbled coat, a unique speckled pattern that distinguishes it from other Scandinavian hunting dogs.
The eyes are usually dark brown or blue, the ears medium-sized and drooping, and the tail is carried low.
Format
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Males: 50–55 cm height at the withers
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Bitches: 47–52 cm height at the withers
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Weight: 20–25 kg
Character & temperament
The Dunker is friendly, intelligent, and determined. Bred for hunting, it also has a gentle, sociable temperament that makes it a suitable companion dog.
At work, he's independent and focused—he follows trails with great precision and rarely loses focus. At home, he's calm, loyal, and loves being near his family.
The Dunker is a dog that responds well to positive, consistent training. He is sensitive to voice and prefers to work with an owner who exudes calmness and trust.
Good with children and other pets
The Dunker is generally very good with children. He has a gentle temperament, enjoys company, and is patient, making him a good fit for a family setting.
He generally gets along well with other dogs, especially when properly socialized from an early age. Because he's a hunting dog with a highly developed sense of smell, he can show a natural interest in small animals like rabbits or birds—early training helps control this.
His friendly nature and stable character make him a reliable family dog, especially for active families who spend a lot of time outdoors.
Movement & care
The Dunker needs plenty of exercise. He's a true outdoor dog who enjoys long walks, running, and tracking. A few short walks a day aren't enough for him; he needs space to burn off his energy.
He enjoys activities such as tracking, canicross, or gun training — anything that allows him to use his nose and stamina.
The coat is easy to maintain: a weekly brushing is sufficient to remove loose hair. Check the ears regularly, especially after walks through the woods or rough terrain, to prevent dirt and moisture buildup.
Health
The Dunker is a strong and healthy breed with an average life expectancy of 12 to 14 years.
Because the breed is relatively small in numbers, it's important to watch out for hereditary conditions. The most common are:
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Deafness, especially in dogs with a lot of white in their coat
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Hip dysplasia (HD) to a lesser extent
With responsible breeding and good care, the Dunker remains a vital and robust breed that can withstand cold and exertion well.
Difference with similar breeds
The Dunker resembles other Scandinavian hunting dogs such as the Finnish Lop or Schillerstövare, but is distinguished by its blue marbled coat and gentler nature.
While some Scandinavian dogs can be a bit aloof, the Dunker is more sociable and people-oriented. He combines the endurance of a true working dog with the friendliness of a companion dog.
Summary
The Dunker is a friendly, reliable, and energetic hunting dog with a unique appearance and a big heart. He is loyal, sociable, and full of energy—a dog that enjoys the outdoors, exercise, and cooperation with his owner.
For active families or nature lovers, the Dunker is an ideal companion: hardworking in the field, calm at home and always loyal to its people.