Norwegian Lundehund
Quick Summary
Unique Norwegian breed with remarkable physical adaptations, best suited for active owners who can manage special dietary needs and provide engaging exercise opportunities.
Contents
Weight Range
20-30 lbs
♂ Male: 20-30 lbs
♀ Female: 20-30 lbs
Height Range
30-38 inches
♂ Male: 13-15"
♀ Female: 13-15"
Life Expectancy
12-15 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #68
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Non-Sporting Group
Originally bred for Developed along Norwegian coastal regions during the 1600s, these dogs were bred to hunt puffins and other seabirds in narrow cliff crevices of the Lofoten Islands
Popularity
#191
Less common breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 13"-15" |
| Female Height | 13"-15" |
| Male Weight | 20-30 lbs |
| Female Weight | 20-30 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
High initial purchase price due to rarity. Monthly costs include premium diet, regular vet care, and potential digestive supplements. Healthcare expenses may be significant due to breed-specific conditions.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Alert and energetic with strong hunting instincts. Shows loyalty to family while maintaining some independence. Demonstrates remarkable agility and problem-solving abilities, especially in climbing and exploration activities.
Social Needs
Moderately social breed requiring regular family interaction. Generally good with other dogs but may need early socialization. Can handle alone time if properly trained and exercised.
Breed Overview
Norwegian Lundehunds possess distinctive physical adaptations including six toes on each foot, extraordinary neck flexibility, and unique shoulder structure. Their compact, rectangular body features a dense double coat in reddish-brown to fawn with black hair tips. Alert and agile, these medium-sized dogs showcase remarkable climbing abilities and exceptional joint flexibility, historically vital for puffin hunting on steep Norwegian cliffs.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Unique physical capabilities
- ✓ Agile and athletic
- ✓ Loyal family companion
- ✓ Good with children
Cons
- ✗ Rare and expensive
- ✗ Special dietary needs
- ✗ Health concerns
- ✗ Strong hunting instincts
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Loyal, Energetic, Alert |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Agreeable |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise including climbing activities, agility training, and interactive play. Moderate to high intensity level with focus on engaging both mental and physical abilities through varied activities.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires specialized diet due to digestive sensitivities. Feed 2-3 small meals daily, totaling 1.5-2 cups of high-quality food. Consider specific dietary restrictions and supplements for digestive health.
Feed high-quality protein-rich food divided into 2-3 meals daily. Total amount varies from 1.5-2 cups based on size and activity level. Special attention needed for digestive sensitivities common in breed.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adaptable to apartments with sufficient exercise, but thrives in homes with secure yards. Ideal in moderate climates with access to climbing opportunities and exploration spaces.
Requires minimum space for indoor movement and climbing activities. Adapts well to various living situations but needs secure outdoor access. Thrives in environments with opportunities for exploration.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Native to remote islands of northern Norway, Lundehunds were developed to navigate treacherous cliffs and catch puffins in narrow rock crevices. Their unique physical adaptations evolved specifically for this dangerous hunting task.
Historical Purpose
Developed along Norwegian coastal regions during the 1600s, these dogs were bred to hunt puffins and other seabirds in narrow cliff crevices of the Lofoten Islands.
Fun Fact
Only dog breed with six fully developed toes on each foot, a trait evolved for cliff climbing!
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Requires specialized diet management, regular exercise with climbing opportunities, and careful monitoring of digestive health. Early socialization important.