At a glance, Lundehunds seem a typical northern breed: A spitz type with triangular ears, curving tail, and a dense double coat. But a closer look reveals several unique traits. They have feet with at least six fully functioning toes and extra paw pads, an “elastic neck” that can crane back so the head touches the spine, ears that fold shut, and flexible shoulders that allow forelegs to extend to the side, perpendicular to the body. This last anomaly produces the breed’s distinctive “rotary” gait.
Meet the Norwegian Lundehund, AKC’s latest entry into the Non-Sporting Group (January 1, 2011). With a large number of unique physical anomalies that developed due to the extreme environment in which they lived and worked, it can be a challenge ...
