Norwegian Lundehund

also known as Norsk Lundehund, Lundehund, Norwegian Puffin Dog

Pros History


The Norwegian Lundehund is a small, agile breed of dog that has a long and rich history dating back to the 17th century. The breed is believed to have originated in Norway and is known for its unique physical characteristics, including six toes on each foot, and its ability to climb steep cliffs and narrow crevices to hunt for puffins. The name "Lundehund" literally translates to "Puffin dog" in English.

The origins of the Norwegian Lundehund can be traced back to the 17th century in the Arctic region of Norway, where the breed was used to hunt for the Atlantic Puffin, a seabird that nested in difficult to reach areas on steep cliffs and in narrow crevices. The Lundehund's unique physical characteristics, including its six toes on each foot and its ability to rotate its ears, made it well-suited for this type of hunting.

In the 19th and early 20th century, the breed's popularity declined as hunting for puffins became less common and the breed's unique characteristics were no longer needed. The breed's population dropped to dangerously low levels, and by the 1930s, the Lundehund was considered a rare breed.

Efforts to revive the breed began in the 1940s, led by a group of dedicated breeders in Norway. The breed was officially recognized by the Norsk Kennel Klub (NKK) in 1938, and the breed standard was established in 1947. The breed was also recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1963. The breed is not yet recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) or the United Kennel Club (UKC).

The name "Norwegian Lundehund" translates to "Puffin dog" in English, reflecting the breed's original purpose of hunting for Puffins in Norway's Arctic region. The name "Lunde" is the Norwegian word for Puffin, and "hund" means dog in Norwegian. So Lundehund is a combination of these two words, "Puffin dog" which indicates the breed's main function of hunting these birds. The name "Norwegian" is added to distinguish it from other breeds that may have similar names but are not originated from Norway.

Breed Information


Type

Is Norwegian Lundehund a purebred?

Purebred

Purpose

What were Norwegian Lundehunds originally used for?

Retrieve live puffins

Lifespan

How Long Do Norwegian Lundehunds Live? What is average life expectancy for a Norwegian Lundehund? How long can Norwegian Lundehunds live?

10-12 years

The average Norwegian Lundehund lifespan is somewhere between 10-12 years, provided they aren't beset by any exceptional health issues or injuries.

Norwegian Lundehund Height & Weight


How big is a full grown Norwegian Lundehund?

What is the average height of a Norwegian Lundehund? How big is a Purebred Norwegian Lundehund height? Norwegian Lundehund dog height:
Height
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 13-15 inches (33 - 38.1 cm) 20.5 inches (52.1 cm) 22.5 inches (57.2 cm) 24.5 inches (62.2 cm)
Female 12-14 inches (30.5 - 35.6 cm) 18.5 inches (47 cm) 20.5 inches (52.1 cm) 22.5 inches (57.2 cm)
What is the average weight of a Norwegian Lundehund? How much should Norwegian Lundehunds weigh?
Weight
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 13-20 pounds (6 - 9 kg) 73.5 pounds (33 kg) 104.5 pounds (47 kg) 110.0 pounds (50 kg)
Female 13-20 pounds (6 - 9 kg) 68.5 pounds (31 kg) 97.0 pounds (44 kg) 103.5 pounds (47 kg)
Weight Gain Potential

Do Norwegian Lundehunds get fat easily?

The Norwegian Lundehund is a breed that has an average risk of becoming obese. Daily walks and a balanced diet of quality dry dog food can help maintain a healthy weight. An active lifestyle and monitoring weight regularly is recommended.

Hypoallergenic

Are Norwegian Lundehunds Hypoallergenic?

No

Unfortunately, the Norwegian Lundehund is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What is a Norwegian Lundehund personality? What are Norwegian Lundehund dogs best known for?

Alert
Loyal
Energetic
Protective

Shedding Level

Are Norwegian Lundehunds heavy shedders? How Much Does a Norwegian Lundehund Shed?

Norwegian Lundehund dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Norwegian Lundehund. This will remove loose hair and keep his coat growing in the same direction.

Watchdog Ability

What is the watchdog ability of a Norwegian Lundehund dog?

Norwegian Lundehunds are very good watchdogs. They are a vocal breed, and are wary of outsiders, so if someone approaches your home or aims to intrude, the Norwegian Lundehund is going to make sure everyone knows about it.

Breed History


Origin

Where do Norwegian Lundehunds come from?

Norway

Ancestry

What are Norwegian Lundehunds descended from?

Spitz

Breed recognition

What organizations or kennel clubs recognize/register the Norwegian Lundehund breed?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
Continental Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
National Kennel Club
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Norwegian Lundehunds first bred? How old is the Norwegian Lundehund breed?

Unknown

Breed Group

What Breed Group is a Norwegian Lundehund?

Non Sporting (AKC:2011)
Northern Breed (UKC)

Norwegian Lundehund Appearance


Eye Color Possibilites

What color are Norwegian Lundehund eyes?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What color can Norwegian Lundehund nose be naturally?

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What color can Norwegian Lundehund coat be naturally?

Sable
Gray
Red
White

Coat Length

How long is a Norwegian Lundehunds coat?

The coat of a Norwegian Lundehund falls in the medium length category.

Coat Density

How Dense Is The Norwegian Lundehund Coat?

Coat Texture

What is the texture of the hair of a Norwegian Lundehund?

Straight

Litter Size

How many puppies can a Norwegian Lundehund have in a litter? How many puppies can a Norwegian Lundehund have in her first litter?

10-12 puppies per pregnancy

A Norwegian Lundehund can have a litter of 10-12 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

The adaptability of Norwegian Lundehund dogs is a well-known trait, they are known for being able to adjust well to different living environments and lifestyle changes.

Norwegian Lundehund Health Issues


Health Issues

Do Norwegian Lundehunds have a lot of health problems?

The Norwegian Lundehund is generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns to be aware of when owning a Norwegian Lundehund?

Lundehund Syndrome

Minor Concerns

What are the less significant issues to keep in mind when it comes to Norwegian Lundehunds?

Hip Dysplasia
Kneecap Dislocation

Occasional Diagnoses

Various Eye Diseases

Occasional Tests

What are the occasional tests recommended for Norwegian Lundehund breed?

OFA
CERF
X-Rays
Full Physical Examination

Norwegian Lundehund Needs and Activities


Energy

Do Norwegian Lundehunds have a lot of energy?

Norwegian Lundehunds are known for their high energy levels, so if you're looking for a more low-key dog, this breed may not be the best choice.

Social Needs

Do Norwegian Lundehunds need socialization? How social are Norwegian Lundehunds?

Norwegian Lundehund have above average social needs compared to other breeds.They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

How much exercise should Norwegian Lundehunds get?

The Norwegian Lundehund needs a high level of physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They also make great companions for people who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy running, hiking or other outdoor activities. These breeds are not suitable for people with sedentary lifestyle or those who live in small apartments

Sleeping Need

How much sleep should a Norwegian Lundehund have? Do Norwegian Lundehunds sleep a lot?

Norwegian Lundehunds dogs are tend to sleep less than other breeds, but they still require adequate sleep to maintain good health.

Drooling Tendency

Does a Norwegian Lundehund drool a lot?

The Norwegian Lundehund is a breed of dog that is characterized by its minimal drooling, making it an ideal choice for people who dislike drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

How much does it bark?

Norwegian Lundehund dogs tends to bark less frequently than most other dogs. They tend to be quieter and less vocal than other breeds. They may only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner of something or to communicate something. They do not bark excessively, and may not bark as much as other dogs in certain situations, such as when they are left alone.

Territorial

Do Norwegian Lundehunds exhibit aggressive behavior to safeguard their home and territory? Do they possess a natural tendency to guard?

Norwegian Lundehund dogs are known for being average at defending. They possess the capability to defend their territory or owners, but it is not their primary trait. They are not the best choice for guard dogs

Mouthiness

Are Norwegian Lundehunds mouthy?

Roaming urge

What is the likelihood of a Norwegian Lundehund running away? Do they have a tendency to explore or wander frequently?

Prey Drive

Do Norwegian Lundehund dogs have a high prey drive?

Tolerance of being left alone

Grooming

What level of grooming should be provided for a Norwegian Lundehund?

The Norwegian Lundehund is a breed of dog that requires an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

How often should you brush a Norwegian Lundehund?

Daily

Ideally, Norwegian Lundehund should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What are the most commonly used brushing tools for Norwegian Lundehunds?

Pin Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Costs


Norwegian Lundehund Characteristic


Intelligence

How intelligent is a Norwegian Lundehund?

The Norwegian Lundehund have below the average degree of obedience intelligence among other breeds. However, calling them “dumb dogs” is unfair. Where Norwegian Lundehunds lack in obedience & working intelligence, they make up for it with their keen ability to understand human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How sensitive is a Norwegian Lundehund dog?

Norwegian Lundehund dogs have average emotions and are adaptable to different situations, not requiring extra care like sensitive breeds do.

Affection Dependance

Are Norwegian Lundehund dogs affectionate?

Apartment Friendly

Do Norwegian Lundehund do well in apartments? Are Norwegian Lundehunds good indoor dogs?

The Norwegian Lundehund is not an apartment-friendly dog breed. This dog breed is best in a home with a large, fenced-in yard. They are not suited for apartment life and can become destructive due to pent up energy from being in a small space.

Child Friendly

Are Norwegian Lundehunds good with kids? Are Norwegian Lundehunds good around children?

Norwegian Lundehunds are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.

Senior-friendly

Are Norwegian Lundehunds good for elderly?

Cat Friendly

Are Norwegian Lundehunds good with cats? How friendly Norwegian Lundehunds are toward cats?

Norwegian Lundehunds are below average friendly toward cats. But with the right training and socialization, Norwegian Lundehunds can be good with cats,

Dog Friendly

Do Norwegian Lundehund dogs get along with other dogs? Are Norwegian Lundehunds OK with other dogs?

Norwegian Lundehunds are average friendly towards other dogs. If they are raised with other dogs, they are likely to get along with them. And, if they are socialized properly from a young age, they will usually be great with other dogs.

Pet friendly

How do Norwegian Lundehund dogs interact with other pets? Are they considered pet-friendly?

Stranger Friendly

Are Norwegian Lundehunds friendly with strangers?

Norwegian Lundehunds are below average friendly around strangers. Keen of eye and sharp of tongue, most Norwegian Lundehunds are very quick to announce strangers at the door. Once the visitor comes in, some Norwegian Lundehunds will be friendly and outgoing. But many others have the standoffish or suspicious towards strangers.

Playfulness

Do Norwegian Lundehunds like to play? Are Norwegian Lundehunds playful?

The Norwegian Lundehund is a playful dog. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for your Norwegian Lundehund is to make time each day to play. It can be as little as 15-20 minutes, and it will mean the world to them.

Trainability

Are Norwegian Lundehund easily trained?

Norwegian Lundehund dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.

Pros Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Quiet
    If you're looking for a breed that doesn't make a lot of noise, the Norwegian Lundehund dog could be a good pick as they are known for being quiet.
  • Unique Physical Characteristics
    Norwegian Lundehund have unique physical characteristics, such as extra toes and flexible shoulders, that make them well-suited for climbing and exploring.
  • Intelligence
    Norwegian Lundehund are intelligent dogs that can excel in a variety of activities.
  • Friendly
    Norwegian Lundehund are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them great companion dogs.
  • Energetic
    Norwegian Lundehund are energetic dogs that enjoy being active and playing.

Cons

  • Not Apartment Friendly
    Norwegian Lundehund breeds may not be comfortable in an apartment setting.
  • Exercise Needs
    Norwegian Lundehund require a significant amount of exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
  • Not cat-friendly
    Norwegian Lundehunds are not recommended for households with cats.
  • Not suitable for office environment
    Norwegian Lundehunds may not thrive in an office setting
  • Not Hypoallergenic
    Norwegian Lundehunds may not be the best choice for those with allergies, as they may cause allergic reactions.
  • Grooming Needs
    Norwegian Lundehund have a thick double coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its appearance.