Norwegian Lundehund
"The Puffin Dog"
History
A native of the remote islands of arctic Norway, the Lundehund was bred to wrestle and retrieve live Puffins from crevices on steep cliffs as far back as the 1500s. When Puffins were declared a protected species in the 1800s, Lundehunds became less popular so their numbers dwindled, but they were saved after World War II by Norwegian fanciers.
Temperament
Lundehunds are very loving and playful; they form strong bonds, and prefer their own family to any other people. They are also curious and intelligent so they need plenty of engaging toys, and do well at agility training. A long walk or jog every day is a must as they are very energetic.
Appearance
Lundehunds have a double coat with a dense, soft undercoat that can be reddish brown, tan, or white, and some have dark markings or black tips. Their interesting history has given them several characteristics that are completely unique: they have six toes on each foot, their prick ears fold closed, forward or backward, and they can tip their heads all the way back to their backbone. They are also able to spread their front legs completely flat out to the sides, and this flexibility in the shoulders gives them a distinctive gait.
Training
Training takes a firm and consistent hand, and a lot of patience. They can be extremely hard to housetrain, so you have to be incredibly diligent about making sure they get outside frequently; the help of an animal behaviorist may be required if it is a problem case. Be sure to socialize them to all kinds of people and situations to avoid problem-barking.
Grooming & Care
Despite being heavy shedders, they are easy to groom. Brush frequently, bathe only when necessary, and that’s about it.
Health Concerns
They are highly prone to a group of gastrointestinal disorders that, when lumped together, are referred to as Gastroenteropathy or Lundehund Syndrome. The symptoms can be treated but there is no cure, and since it is unclear how it is inherited, there is no genetic testing available at present.
Famous Norwegian Lundehund
Nils was the first Norwegian Lundehund to debut at Westminster in 2012.
| Ideal Owner | |
|---|---|
| Activity Level | Active |
| Schedule | Work from home or willing to use a doggy daycare service |
| Personal Style | Easygoing and casual |
| Training Style | Consistent, Firm |
| Home | Fenced yard or access to one |
| Children | Any age is fine |
| Experience | Definitely preferred |
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Size | Small |
| Grooming | Brush a few times a week |
| Exercise | High - needs to walk every day, plus some running and play |
| Training | Needs daily practice |
| Temperment | Loyal, Affectionate, Sweet |
| Challenges | Can be extremely hard to housetrain |
| Height | 12 to 15 inches |
| Weight | 12 to 18 pounds |
| Life | 12 to 13 years |
| Home Alone | Not often or for long - wants to be where you are |
| With Kids | Excellent |
| With Strangers | Indifferent |
| Availability | Rare and may have a waiting list |
© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Last updated on Aug 25, 2014.
