Could this once-endangered breed be North America's dog of the future?

This handsome, foxy-looking dog was considered extinct in 1948 by the Swedish KC. due to the determination of a few enthusiasts who scoured the countrysides of Sweden and Finland for good stock, the breed was reinstated in 1967 and has made a strong comeback. It has now made its entry into North America ... and what an entry it is! Canine fanciers who have never seen these dogs before strive to learn more about them.

There's no questions this lively, fearless dog will make the ideal pet for country or city living. They are very affectionate, trainable, loyal, faithful, never aggressive and gentle with children.

An eternal, faithful friend to the Vikings of old, the Norrbottenspets is a vigilant protector of the family home. Their low maintenance double-coat and an unusually long lifespan top off a long list of outstanding qualities.

What kind of dog is that??! That's what many dog fanciers are asking when they spot these bright, clean-lined dogs for the first time.

If you answered, "It's a Basta Jacthund, which is Swedish for 'best hunting dog' ... or if you said it's a 'Pohjanpystykorva', which is a Finnish name, you'd also be right. But in North America, they're call, Norrbottenspets.

Apart from the elegance these little Arctic dogs display, they can be tough. In Sweden and Finland, they are legendary for being model hunting dogs for birds and fur-bearing animals such as bear and moose. In North America, although there are only just a few to date, they are already making a name for themselves in search and rescue.

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Many judges remark that this is a "free moving dog".