Miniature American Shepherd vs Norwegian Lundehund
Breed Compatibility
75% Compatible
Energy Level
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Norwegian Lundehund: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Norwegian Lundehund: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Norwegian Lundehund: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Norwegian Lundehund3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Norwegian Lundehund3/5
Good with Strangers
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Norwegian Lundehund3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defect
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Cataracts: Vision clouding concern
Norwegian Lundehund
Lundehund Syndrome: Digestive disorder
Patellar Luxation: Knee joint issues
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Dental Issues: Tooth loss risk
Gastric Issues: Digestive sensitivity
Pros & Cons Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Versatile working ability
Compact size
Strong herding instincts
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct may need management
Requires consistent training
Norwegian Lundehund
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
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Norwegian Lundehund Fun Fact
Only dog breed with six fully developed toes on each foot, a trait evolved for cliff climbing!
Heritage & Purpose
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds, these dogs were bred specifically for herding smaller livestock and companion work.
Norwegian Lundehund
Origin:
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.
Special Considerations
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Norwegian Lundehund
Requires specialized diet management, regular exercise with climbing opportunities, and careful monitoring of digestive health. Early socialization important.