Norwegian Lundehund Dog Breed Information

Norwegian Lundehund,

The Lundehund is a small breed of Spitz type dog that originated in Norway. Did you know that this is one of the world's rarest of dog breeds?

To better understand what the dog breed name means, let's break it down further: the word Lunde means puffin and and the word hund means dog - so, these dogs were originally used for hunting puffins along the coast in Norway.

Over time, interest for this dog breed declined. This dog breed became nearly extinct around World War II due to canine distemper and again in 1963. This second time, only 6 dogs survived! Over time, due to careful breeding with strict guidelines, there are around 1500-2000 dogs in the world!

The Norwegian Lundehund has a great range of motion in its joints. This allowed the dog to easily fit into the narrow passages in which the Puffins lived. Their head can actually be bent backwards along the dog's own spine!

Watch one of these guys in action

Additionally, their forelegs can turn to the side at a 90-degree angle to its body (almost like human arms). Another interesting fact is that the Lundehund is polydactyl - he has six toes, all are fully formed, jointed and muscled.

Lundehunds are very friendly dogs and simply love people. Overall they are not aggressive at all and will happily snuggle with people or other dogs for hours. They are also very intelligent and curious little dogs and can be stubborn as well.

Be forewarned, the Lundehund can be extremely difficult to housebreak and consistent crate training is absolutely mandatory and works well because this primitive dog breed still has a strong den instinct.

This breed is usually good with other pets if raised with them and socialized with them from an early age. Additionally, the Lundehund is a very easy dog breed to groom. Comb and brush regularly and bath them only when necessary. One more thing, this dog breed is a heavy shedder.

These are active dogs and need to be exercised daily with at least a long daily walk or, better yet, an exciting jog. They also really enjoy play. These dogs are excellent athletes and make great agility dogs.

Country of origin: Norway
Lifespan: 12 years or so
Colors: reddish-brown to fallow, black, gray, all with white markings, or white with dark markings
Known health problems: Lundehund gastroenteropathy, a set of digestive disorders (there is no cure, though the disease can be managed)

Return from Norwegian Lundehund to AKC Miscellaneous Dog Group