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01/Overview
The Norwegian Lundehund is distinguished by its remarkable flexibility and six-toed feet, features that historically aided in hunting puffins along steep cliffs. Bred for the purpose of navigating Norway's rugged landscapes to retrieve puffin eggs, this breed exhibits a sturdy and agile build, enabling it to master the harsh Norwegian terrains. While their hunting days may be behind them, today's Lundehunds channel their intelligence and agility into being versatile, affectionate companions, showcasing a resilience and charm that capture the hearts of many across the world.
Highlights
02/History
The Norwegian Lundehund boasts a rich and intriguing history that traces back to the Lofoten Islands in Norway, where they were originally bred to hunt puffins and their eggs along steep cliff faces. This specific and challenging task shaped the breed's unique physical characteristics, such as their remarkable flexibility, extra toes, and the ability to close their ear canals, all adaptations that aided in navigating the narrow crevices and rocky terrain of their hunting grounds.
The breed's name itself reflects its historical purpose: "Lunde" refers to the puffin bird, while "hund" means dog in Norwegian. For centuries, these dogs played a vital role in the local economy, retrieving puffins from locations inaccessible to humans. However, with the advent of puffin hunting bans and the introduction of nets, the Lundehund's traditional role diminished, leading to a decline in their numbers.
By the 20th century, the Norwegian Lundehund was dangerously close to extinction. Dedicated efforts by Norwegian breeders, particularly Eleanor Christie in the 1930s and 1940s, helped preserve the breed. Their commitment allowed the Lundehund's genetic lineage to persist, though with a restricted gene pool, presenting challenges in addressing breed-specific health concerns.
The breed received official recognition from the Norwegian Kennel Club in the 1940s, and since then, it has gained international attention, albeit remaining relatively rare outside of Norway. The American Kennel Club (AKC) granted the Norwegian Lundehund full recognition in 2011, marking a significant milestone in the breed's history.
Today, while the Norwegian Lundehund is primarily a companion dog, its unique traits and fascinating history continue to captivate dog enthusiasts around the world. The breed serves as a living link to Norway's cultural heritage, embodying the resilience and adaptability that enabled its survival through centuries. Despite its transition from working dog to companion, the Norwegian Lundehund retains the distinctive qualities that once made it an invaluable asset to Norwegian hunters on the Lofoten Islands.
03/Appearance
Male Norwegian Lundehunds typically stand between 13 and 15 inches tall at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller, usually ranging from 12 to 14 inches in height.
As for weight, males generally weigh around 15 to 18 pounds, and females are in the range of 12 to 15 pounds.
Skull: The Norwegian Lundehund's skull is moderately broad and slightly rounded, ensuring a well-proportioned head that reflects the breed's alert and intelligent nature.
Expression: The expression of a Lundehund is keen and lively, mirroring its inquisitive and energetic personality. Their eyes, set well apart, convey attentiveness and curiosity, embodying the breed's adaptable and keen nature.
Eyes: Medium in size and almond-shaped, the eyes of a Norwegian Lundehund are dark brown, imparting a friendly and intelligent gaze. The placement and shape of the eyes contribute significantly to the breed's expressive and engaging facial features.
Ears: Their ears are another remarkable aspect, being small, triangular, and erect, with a high set that enhances their ability to listen and react. The ears' mobility allows the Lundehund to express various emotions, reflecting its responsive and attentive demeanor.
Muzzle: The muzzle is of medium length and well-proportioned to the skull, tapering slightly towards the nose but not to a point, equipped with strong jaws that hint at the breed's working background.
Nose: The nose should be black, complementing any coat color, and well-developed, indicative of the breed's excellent sense of smell.
Bite: The Norwegian Lundehund has a scissors bite, where the upper teeth closely overlap the lower teeth and are set square to the jaws, vital for its historical role in catching and holding prey.
The Norwegian Lundehund exhibits a rectangular profile, with the length of the body slightly exceeding the height at the withers, contributing to their remarkable flexibility. The Lundehund is not heavily boned or muscular; rather, its build is moderate, reflecting the need for balance between strength and agility. This proportion and substance enable the Lundehund to perform agile and intricate movements, vital for navigating the crevices and cliffs of their native Norwegian landscape.
Texture: The Norwegian Lundehund boasts a double coat consisting of a harsh, protective outer layer and a softer, dense undercoat. This combination provides excellent insulation, crucial for a breed accustomed to the harsh, cold climate of Norway. The outer coat is relatively short and rough, while the undercoat is thick and wooly, aiding in weather resistance and overall durability.
Standard Colors
Standard Markings
04/Consider
When considering adding a Norwegian Lundehund to your life, it is vital to understand the breed's unique needs and characteristics. Potential owners should be aware of the breed's exercise requirements, its need for mental stimulation, and its socialization needs to make sure it grows into a well-adjusted, happy companion.
Interaction With Family
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals.
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed.
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children.
Amount Of Shedding
How much hair a breed typically leaves behind on clothes, furniture and floors.
Frequency Of Grooming
How often a breed needs brushing, bathing or a professional trim to stay in condition.
Amount Of Drooling
How prone a breed is to drool — worth knowing before you keep a towel by the door.
Openness To Strangers
How openly a breed tends to greet new people, visitors and strangers.
Protective Nature
How likely a breed is to alert you to — and stand between you and — anything unfamiliar.
Playfulness Level
How enthusiastic a breed stays about games and play well past puppyhood.
Trainability Level
How readily a breed takes direction and works with you rather than around you.
Barking Level
How much a breed uses its voice, and how readily.
Energy Level
How much get-up-and-go a breed brings to an average day.
Health
The Norwegian Lundehund is generally a hardy breed, but like all breeds and mixed breeds, it has predispositions to certain health conditions. The average lifespan of a Norwegian Lundehund ranges between 12 and 15 years. However, with diligent care, regular veterinary check-ups, and a well-balanced diet, many Lundehunds can enjoy a quality of life that extends well into their senior years.
The Norwegian Lundehund has a personality that is as unique as its physical build, blending traits of agility, independence, and playfulness. This breed is known for its intelligence and can be a good fit for novice owners, provided they approach training with consistency and patience. Due to their sensitive nature, Lundehunds respond best to positive reinforcement techniques, which can help strengthen the bond between dog and owner.
While they do enjoy companionship, Norwegian Lundehunds also have an independent streak and can tolerate being alone for reasonable periods. Their social nature generally makes them good with other dogs, particularly when socialized from a young age. When it comes to children, the Lundehund can be a loving and gentle companion, though interactions should always be supervised, especially with younger children.
In terms of their disposition towards strangers, Lundehunds can be somewhat reserved initially. Proper socialization is crucial to help them become more comfortable and outgoing. Despite their hunting background, they often display a friendly and curious nature, making them adaptable companions in various social settings.
Exercise Expectations
Moderate daily exercise, such as walks or play sessions in a securely fenced area, can meet their needs and help channel their energy positively. These activities not only support their physical health but also provide essential mental stimulation, keeping the Lundehund engaged and content. The breed's intelligence and agility make it a good candidate for more structured forms of exercise as well. Activities like agility training, obedience, or even interactive games that challenge their problem-solving skills can be particularly beneficial. These activities not only help expend their energy but also strengthen the bond between dog and handler, offering shared experiences that are both enjoyable and rewarding. Despite their adaptable nature, it's important to monitor the intensity and duration of exercise, especially in extreme weather conditions, to prevent overexertion. Lundehunds, with their thick double coats, can be sensitive to high temperatures, so it's crucial to provide them with exercise options that account for the weather, ensuring they stay cool and hydrated.
Living with a Norwegian Lundehund can be a rewarding experience, but it requires understanding and accommodating their specific needs. These dogs are adaptable and can thrive in various living environments, from apartments to houses with yards, provided they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation.
When considering apartment living, it's important to make sure that the Lundehund gets enough daily activity to prevent boredom and restlessness. Even in a smaller space, regular walks, playtime, and training can help meet their exercise needs and foster a healthy, happy demeanor.
The breed's tolerance for cold weather is quite high, thanks to its origins in the harsh Norwegian climate. The Lundehund's double coat offers protection against cold, making them well-suited for cooler environments. However, despite their robustness, it's crucial to provide shelter, warmth, and comfort indoors during extreme weather.
Conversely, their tolerance for hot weather is more limited. During warmer months, it's essential to make sure that they have access to shade, fresh water, and cool indoor areas. Exercise routines may need to be adjusted to avoid the hottest parts of the day, and monitoring for signs of overheating is vital.
Living with a Lundehund also means considering their social and emotional needs. They are companionable dogs that form strong bonds with their families and can experience separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. Ensuring they have adequate company, stimulation, and comfort when you're not around is key to their well-being.
05/Puppies
Bringing a Norwegian Lundehund puppy into your home is an exciting experience that comes with specific responsibilities to ensure their healthy development and socialization. Understanding the needs of Lundehund puppies is crucial for their transition into a well-adjusted and happy adult dog.
From the moment a Norwegian Lundehund puppy arrives, establishing a routine is vital for their comfort and security. Consistent feeding, potty breaks, and sleep schedules help them adapt to their new environment and understand what is expected of them.
Early socialization is key to developing a confident and well-behaved Lundehund. Introducing your puppy to various people, environments, and other animals under controlled and positive circumstances can significantly influence their temperament and behavior as adults.
Proper nutrition is fundamental during this growth stage. Feeding your Lundehund puppy a high-quality diet formulated for small to medium breed puppies will support their development and health. Monitoring their growth and adjusting food intake to avoid overfeeding are essential to prevent joint issues and obesity.
Training should begin early, utilizing positive reinforcement methods to encourage good behavior and establish a bond based on trust and mutual respect. Lundehund puppies are intelligent and capable learners, but they also benefit from gentle guidance and patience during training sessions.
During this period, it is vital to have consistent veterinary examinations to confirm the puppy's vaccinations are current and to observe their growth and progress. Additionally, these appointments provide a chance to talk about spaying or neutering and to develop a plan for preventive healthcare.
06/Activities
The Norwegian Lundehund, with its agile and intelligent nature, can excel in a variety of activities and dog sports that cater to its physical and mental strengths. Engaging in these activities can provide excellent opportunities for exercise, mental stimulation, and bonding with your Lundehund.
Agility: Given their nimbleness and eagerness to learn, Lundehunds can perform exceptionally well in Agility courses. This sport enhances their natural agility and provides mental challenges as they navigate obstacles and respond to handler cues.
Obedience: Participation in Obedience Trials showcases the Lundehund's ability to follow commands and work in harmony with their handler. It reinforces training, strengthens communication, and fosters discipline.
Rally Obedience: This is a fun and exciting way for Lundehunds to engage in obedience exercises within a course of designated stations. It combines elements of training and excitement, offering a less formal environment than traditional Obedience.
Tracking: Leveraging the Lundehund's keen sense of smell, tracking activities can be a rewarding way to tap into their natural instincts. It provides mental stimulation and a sense of purpose, offering a satisfying activity for both dog and owner.
Conformation Shows: Participating in dog shows allows Lundehunds to be evaluated against breed standards, focusing on their appearance, structure, and gait. It's an opportunity to celebrate the breed's heritage and characteristics.
Therapy Work: With their friendly demeanor, Lundehunds can make excellent Therapy dogs, providing comfort and companionship to those in hospitals, schools, and care homes.
Search and Rescue (SAR): Although less common, Lundehunds with the right training can participate in Search and Rescue operations, using their problem-solving skills and agility to navigate challenging terrains.
Gallery
07/Standards
The Norwegian Lundehund is recognized by the world's leading registries and kennel organizations, which categorize the breed into a specific Group based on its unique characteristics. This breed is recognized worldwide under the following Group designations:
The ideal Norwegian Lundehund is described by a Breed Standard that is approved by each of the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations. The Breed Standards for this breed may be found in the following links:
08/Clubs
The dedication of breed enthusiasts around the world plays a vital role in preserving and promoting the unique characteristics of the Norwegian Lundehund. These committed individuals and groups provide essential resources, support, and community, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of this distinctive breed.Established in 2005, the Norwegian Lundehund Association of America (NLAA) is a testament to such dedication in the USA, serving as a pivotal resource for Lundehund owners and breeders. The NLAA offers comprehensive information on breed standards, health care advice, and details on upcoming events, all aimed at supporting the well-being and prominence of the Norwegian Lundehund.For individuals interested in connecting with the Lundehund community, joining a breed club can be an enriching experience, providing pathways to contribute to the breed's future and enjoy the companionship of others who share a passion for these remarkable dogs.
09/Rescue
While the Norwegian Lundehund is a relatively rare breed, especially outside of Norway, there are dedicated efforts within the United States to support Lundehunds in need of rehoming or rescue. The Norwegian Lundehund Association of America (NLAA) plays a pivotal role in these efforts, though it is important to note that the NLAA itself is not a rescue organization but rather provides assistance and advice to those looking to rehome a Norwegian Lundehund.The NLAA offers guidance and support to Lundehund owners considering rehoming their dogs. They recommend contacting the breeder first but can facilitate connections between owners looking to rehome their dog and potential new owners.
10/Facts
Unique Physical Traits
The Norwegian Lundehund has several distinctive physical features, including six toes on each foot, flexible shoulders, and a neck that can crane back so the head touches the spine, all of which aided in its original function of hunting puffins in narrow crevices.
Historical Hunters
Originating from the remote Lofoten Islands in Norway, these dogs were prized for their ability to hunt puffins from deep within rock crevices, a skill that was economically vital for their human companions in the region.
Survival Against the Odds
By the 20th century, the Lundehund was nearly extinct. Dedicated breeding programs in Norway, especially during the 1930s and 1940s, saved the breed from disappearing entirely.
Specialized Diet Needs
Due to their unique gastrointestinal system, Norwegian Lundehunds can have specific dietary requirements to maintain their health and manage conditions like Lundehund Syndrome, a set of digestive issues unique to the breed.
Rarity
The breed is still considered rare, especially outside of Scandinavia, making each Norwegian Lundehund a special ambassador of its breed's history and heritage.
11/FAQ
Norwegian Lundehunds are not typically aggressive. They are known for their gentle and friendly demeanor, especially when properly socialized from a young age. However, like any breed, individual temperaments can vary, and their behavior is significantly influenced by their upbringing, training, and socialization experiences.
Official Standard of the Norwegian Lundehund
General Appearance: The Norwegian Lundehund is a small rectangular and agile Spitz breed with unique characteristics not found in any other breed. Originating on remote islands of arctic Norway, the dog was used to wrestle and retrieve live puffin birds from the crevices of steep vertical cliffs. To enable the dog to climb, descend, and brake on these cliffs, unique structural characteristics have evolved and must be present as they define this breed: a minimum of six toes on each foot and elongated rear foot pads; an elastic neck that allows the head to bend backward to touch the spine, letting the dog turn around in narrow puffin bird caves; and shoulders flexible enough to allow the front legs to extend flat to the side in order to hug the cliffs. This shoulder structure produces a peculiar rotary movement. Finally, the ears close and fold forward or backward to protect from debris. The temperament is alert but not expected to be outgoing toward strangers.
Size, Proportion, Substance: Size - The desired height for adult males is between 13 to 15 inches and 12 to 14 inches for adult females. Size consideration should not outweigh that of type, proportion, movement and other functional attributes. Proportion - length of body is slightly longer than height at the withers. Depth of chest is approximately one half the height. Substance - The Lundehund should be athletic and agile, never coarse or heavy. Bitches are distinctly feminine but without weakness.
Head: The head is wedge-shaped, of medium width and clean. The skull is slightly rounded with prominent brows. There is a pronounced but not deep stop, and the bridge of the nose has a slight arch. The muzzle is of medium length and width, tapering gradually to the end of the muzzle. Length of the muzzle is approximately two-thirds the length of the skull. Nose and lips are black. Teeth - Scissors bite is preferred, but level and reverse scissors bite are permitted. Missing premolars on both sides of the upper and lower jaws are common and allowed. Eyes - almond-shaped, yellow-brown to brown with a brown ring around the pupil. Light eyes are preferred. Eye rims are dark and complete. Ears - medium-size, triangular, broad at the base, carried erect and very mobile. The ear leather can be folded and turned up, backward or at right angles so that the ear openings are clamped shut.
Neck: The neck is clean, of medium length and strong without being thick. Note: The judge should never ask the handler to demonstrate the characteristic flexibility in the ring, as the dog cannot relax sufficiently at a dog show.
Body: Level back, short loin and slightly sloping croup, slight tuck up. Ribs are carried well back, well-sprung but not barrel-shaped.
Tail: High-set, medium length with a dense coat. When the dog is moving, the tail may be carried trailing or in a graceful arch over the back with the tip touching the back. A tightly curled tail or one that falls too far to either side is undesirable. When at rest, the tail hangs with a slight curve.
Forequarters: Moderate angulation with very elastic shoulders so that the front legs can extend out to the side. The legs are straight with slightly outward-turned feet. The feet are oval with at least six fully developed toes, five of which should reach the ground. Eight pads on each foot. The additional toes consist of one three jointed toe, like a thumb, and one two-jointed toe along with corresponding tendons and muscles that give the foot a strong appearance.
Hindquarters: Moderate angulation in balance with the forequarters. Strong muscular upper and lower thighs. Feet: Oval, slightly outward turned with a minimum of six toes, of which four support the dog's weight. There are seven pads with the center pad elongated. When viewed from behind, the rear legs are close but parallel.
Coat: Double coat with a harsh outer coat and a dense, soft undercoat. The coat is short on the head and front of the legs, longer and thicker around the neck and back of thighs. It is dense on the tail with little feathering. The male typically has a thicker ruff around the neck. The Lundehund is presented naturally with no trimming.
Color: Fallow to reddish brown to tan with black hair tips and white markings or white with red or dark markings. More black hair tips with maturity. Dogs with a completely white head or with 50 percent of the head white should have complete dark eye rims and lashes.
Gait: Light and elastic. As the Lundehund is designed to climb steep cliffs and work into narrow crevices, the front assembly must be flexible and wide. This produces an elastic gait with a unique rotary front movement. He moves close but parallel in the rear.
Temperament: A Lundehund is alert, very energetic, loyal and protective. He can be wary of strangers but never aggressive toward people.
Effective July 1, 2008
American Kennel Club (AKC)
The American Kennel Club reveals the rarest dog breeds in the United States, with the Norwegian Lundehund topping the 2025 list.
Meet the Judges
Edna González reflects on judging Non-Sporting breeds at Westminster 2026, sharing insights on her assignments and overall impressions.
Explore the rare Norwegian Lundehund – agile, flexible, and uniquely built for puffin hunting on Norway’s rugged coastal cliffs.
The Norwegian Lundehund (Norwegian: Norsk lundehund) is a small dog breed of the Spitz type that originates from Norway.
The Norwegian Lundehund has a tail of medium length, set high, and is carried with a slight curve, either in a ring shape or loosely curled over the back when the dog is alert or in motion. The tail is never docked, preserving its natural form and function. The fur on the tail is similar to the coat on the body, with the harsh outer coat and softer undercoat providing insulation and protection against the elements.
A Note About Color: The coat color is fallow to reddish brown to tan with black hair tips and white markings, or white with red or dark markings. Maturity brings more black hair tips. Dogs with a completely white head, or with a head that is 50 percent white, should have complete dark eye rims and lashes.
Coat Type
Double
The structure of the coat this breed carries.
Coat Length
Short
How long the breed's coat grows when kept in condition.
Adaptability Level
How easily a breed copes with changes in home, routine, noise and weather.
Mental Stimulation Needs
How much a breed needs a job, a puzzle or training to stay content.
Feeding the Norwegian Lundehund properly is crucial for its health and well-being, requiring a balanced diet that suits its energy level and nutritional needs. When feeding a puppy, it's important to provide a diet formulated for small to medium breed puppies to support their growth and development. As they transition to adulthood, their dietary needs will change, and it's essential to adjust their food accordingly to prevent overfeeding and make sure that they receive the appropriate nutrients.
For an adult Norwegian Lundehund, the amount of food they require can vary based on their age, size, and activity level. Typically, a balanced adult diet might range from 1 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry food per day, divided into two meals. However, these are general guidelines, and it's important to tailor the feeding regimen to the individual dog's needs, monitoring their weight and adjusting portions as necessary to maintain optimal health.
The Norwegian Lundehund's metabolism and energy levels can also influence its dietary needs. As active dogs, they may require more calories to support their energy expenditure, especially if they are involved in regular exercise or activities. Conversely, a more sedentary Lundehund would need fewer calories to avoid weight gain.
While nutrition is a key aspect of care, it's also important to consider the Lundehund's propensity for gastrointestinal sensitivity, given their breed-specific health concerns. Selecting a diet with easily digestible ingredients and monitoring for any signs of digestive upset can help in maintaining their gastrointestinal health.
Training a Norwegian Lundehund requires an understanding of its unique personality and learning style. These dogs are intelligent and capable learners but also have an independent streak that can add an extra layer of challenge to their training. Despite this, they can be effectively trained with the right approach, making them suitable companions even for novice owners willing to invest time in understanding and guiding their pets.
Consistency is key when training a Lundehund. Establishing regular routines and using consistent commands can help reinforce learning and ensure clear communication between you and your dog. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, are particularly effective, as they help build trust and make training sessions enjoyable for the dog.
While Lundehunds are not known for excessive barking, they will communicate when necessary. Understanding their cues and providing appropriate outlets for their expression can help manage their vocalizations. Their intelligence means they can quickly learn to differentiate between when it is appropriate to bark and when it is not, especially with early and consistent training.
Regarding their wanderlust potential and prey drive, it's important to channel their energy and curiosity into positive activities. Training sessions that include puzzle toys, scent work, or agility can engage their minds and bodies, reducing the likelihood of them seeking entertainment elsewhere.
Intelligence is a hallmark of the breed, so varied and mentally stimulating training activities are recommended to keep them engaged and prevent boredom. Incorporating training into play and daily activities can also help reinforce learned behaviors and strengthen the bond between you and your Lundehund.
Grooming Expectations
Regular brushing is essential to remove loose fur, prevent matting, and distribute natural skin oils throughout the coat, which helps maintain its weather-resistant properties. During shedding seasons, typically spring and fall, the Lundehund may require more frequent grooming sessions to manage the increased shedding as it loses its undercoat. While the Lundehund is not known for excessive shedding outside of these peak times, routine brushing will help keep their coat clean and reduce the amount of hair in your home. Additionally, it provides an opportunity to check for any skin issues, parasites, or abnormalities that may require veterinary attention. Bathing the Lundehund should be done as needed, depending on their lifestyle and level of outdoor activity. It's important to use a dog-specific shampoo that preserves the natural oils of their coat, protecting its integrity and function. Beyond coat care, regular grooming also includes nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care. Keeping the Lundehund's nails trimmed prevents discomfort and mobility issues, while clean ears help prevent infections. Good dental hygiene, achieved through regular brushing or dental treats, is vital for overall health.
