Andrea Arden 
Norwegian Lundehund
Norwegian Lundehund: The Puffin Dog
Six-Toed Climber with Ancient Heritage
The Norwegian Lundehund is one of the world's rarest and most unique dog breeds, a remarkable canine contortionist developed for the specialized task of puffin hunting on Norway's rugged coastal cliffs. With six toes on each foot, extraordinary flexibility, and ears that seal shut, this spitz-type breed represents an incredible example of specialized canine evolution.
Originating from remote islands like Værøy in the Lofoten archipelago, these small but mighty dogs were bred to scale treacherous cliffs and navigate narrow sea caves in pursuit of puffins. The breed's name literally translates to "puffin dog" from Norwegian, reflecting their original purpose that shaped their distinctive physical characteristics.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about the Norwegian Lundehund—from their fascinating brush with extinction to their unique care requirements and whether this extraordinary ancient breed might be the right companion for your lifestyle.
Basic Information
The Norwegian Lundehund is a small Spitz-type breed known for its extraordinary physical adaptations, including six toes on each foot, remarkable flexibility, and unique anatomical features developed for cliff climbing and puffin hunting.
| Other Names | Puffin Dog, Lundehund, Norsk Lundehund |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | Non-Sporting (AKC) |
| Origin | Norway (Værøy Island) |
| Height | 12-15 inches (30-40 cm) |
| Weight | 13-20 pounds (6-9 kg) |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Coat | Double coat with harsh outer layer and soft undercoat |
| Colors | Fallow to reddish-brown, often with black hair tips and white markings |
| Temperament | Alert, energetic, loyal, somewhat reserved with strangers |
| Energy Level | Moderate to High - requires regular exercise and mental stimulation |
| Good With | Families, older children; can be reserved with strangers |
Did You Know?
The Norwegian Lundehund holds the distinction of being the rarest dog breed according to AKC registration statistics, ranking 197th out of 197 breeds. These dogs possess several unique physical traits not found in any other breed: they have a minimum of six fully formed toes on each foot, can bend their head backward until it touches their spine, can extend their front legs straight out to the sides like wings, and have ears that fold completely shut to form a waterproof seal. The breed was twice brought to the brink of extinction in the 20th century, with only six dogs remaining in the 1960s, making every modern Lundehund descended from this tiny genetic pool.
History and Origin
The Norwegian Lundehund boasts a fascinating history that spans centuries, from its development as a specialized hunting dog to its dramatic rescue from the brink of extinction.
Ancient Origins and Working History
The breed was developed on the remote island of Værøy in Norway's Lofoten archipelago, where written records date back to the early 1400s. These dogs were specifically bred to hunt puffins, which were an important food source and economic commodity for island communities. The Lundehund's unique physical characteristics evolved to help them scale steep cliffs and navigate narrow sea caves where puffins nested.
Each Lundehund could retrieve 20 or more puffins in a single night, with exceptional dogs bringing back over 100 birds. The entire puffin was utilized - feathers for bedding, meat for consumption (either fresh or salted for winter), and leftovers fed to the dogs. Households often kept multiple Lundehunds, and the dogs were considered more valuable than cows due to their hunting prowess.
Near Extinction and Recovery
The Lundehund population declined dramatically when new hunting methods using nets made the dogs obsolete, and a dog tax further reduced their numbers. By the 1930s, the breed survived only in the isolated village of Mastad on Værøy. The situation became critical when distemper outbreaks in the 1940s and 1960s nearly wiped out the breed entirely. In 1963, only six Lundehunds remained in all of Norway. Thanks to dedicated breeders like Eleanor Christie and Monrad Mikalsen, along with a carefully managed breeding program, the breed was saved from extinction. Today, there are approximately 1,500 Lundehunds worldwide, with about 900 in Norway, though the breed remains exceptionally rare.
Breed Development Timeline
- 1400s: First written records of puffin hunting dogs in Norway
- 1500-1800: Developed as specialized puffin hunters on Værøy Island
- 1930s: Eleanor Christie begins preservation breeding program
- 1963: Population bottleneck - only six dogs remain
- 1960s-2000s: Careful breeding rebuilds population
- 2011: AKC recognition
- Present Day: Approximately 1,500 dogs worldwide, conservation breeding continues
Appearance & Physical Traits
The Norwegian Lundehund possesses a combination of unique physical characteristics not found in any other dog breed, all developed for their specialized cliff-climbing and puffin-hunting abilities.
Physical Characteristics
- Body: Small, rectangular Spitz-type build with great agility
- Head: Wedge-shaped with a slightly rounded skull
- Eyes: Medium-sized, slightly almond-shaped, amber to brown
- Ears: Medium-sized, triangular, highly mobile - can fold forward or backward
- Neck: Moderately long and strong with remarkable flexibility
- Tail: Medium set, well plumed, carried in a loose ring or slightly rolled
- Legs & Shoulders: Extremely flexible joints allowing unusual range of motion
Unique Physical Adaptations
The Norwegian Lundehund has several extraordinary physical traits developed for their original hunting work:
- Polydactyl Feet: Six fully developed toes on each foot, all jointed and muscled
- Flexible Neck: Can bend head backward to touch spine for turning in tight spaces
- Mobile Shoulders: Can extend front legs straight out to the side at 90-degree angles
- Sealing Ears: Can fold forward or backward to form tight seal against debris and water
- Elastic Joints: Unusual range of motion in all joints for climbing and maneuvering
Size and Proportion
Norwegian Lundehunds are small but sturdy dogs with balanced proportions:
- Height: 12-15 inches (30-40 cm) at shoulder
- Weight: 13-20 pounds (6-9 kg)
- Build: Rectangular outline, slightly longer than tall
- Substance: Light but sturdy bone structure, well-muscled for climbing
Temperament & Personality
The Norwegian Lundehund combines alert intelligence with independent thinking, creating a unique companion that is both loyal and self-reliant.
Loyal & Alert
Lundehunds form strong bonds with their families and are highly alert to their surroundings. They make excellent watchdogs who will notify you of anything unusual.
Independent Thinker
Bred to work autonomously while hunting, Lundehunds are intelligent problem-solvers who may question commands that don't seem purposeful to them.
Energetic & Agile
With their working heritage, Lundehunds have good stamina and enjoy physical activity. They're natural climbers and explorers who need regular exercise.
Reserved with Strangers
While devoted to their families, Lundehunds can be somewhat reserved or wary with strangers. Early socialization is important for confidence.
Important Temperament Considerations
Norwegian Lundehunds are intelligent but can be challenging to train due to their independent nature. They were bred to make decisions autonomously while hunting in dangerous cliff environments, which can translate to stubbornness in training. These dogs require patient, positive reinforcement methods and may not be suitable for first-time dog owners. Their high intelligence means they need regular mental stimulation to prevent boredom, which can lead to destructive behaviors. Lundehunds can be sensitive to harsh treatment and respond best to consistent, gentle guidance. Early and ongoing socialization is crucial to help them develop confidence with strangers and in new situations. Their unique history means they have preservation instincts that may manifest as wariness or reserve.
Temperament Traits
Exercise & Activity Needs
Norwegian Lundehunds have moderate to high exercise requirements and thrive with both physical activity and mental stimulation that engages their problem-solving abilities.
Daily Exercise
45-60 Minutes
Regular walks, play sessions, or opportunities for exploration. Lundehunds enjoy variety in their exercise routine and benefit from consistent daily activity.
Mental stimulation is as important as physical exercise.
Adventure Activities
Weekly
Hiking, climbing on safe structures, or exploring new environments. Their natural climbing abilities make them excellent companions for outdoor adventures.
Always use a secure leash - their curiosity can lead them to explore dangerous areas.
Mental Stimulation
Daily
Puzzle toys, training games, nose work, and problem-solving activities. Their intelligence requires regular engagement to prevent boredom.
Prevents destructive behaviors from boredom and under-stimulation.
Weekly Exercise Schedule
- Daily: 45-60 minutes of combined physical activity and mental stimulation
- 4-5 times per week: Training sessions or interactive games
- 2-3 times per week: More vigorous activities like running or hiking
- Weekly: Opportunities for climbing or exploration in safe environments
Exercise Considerations
Norwegian Lundehunds are natural climbers with extraordinary agility, so secure fencing is essential as they may attempt to climb or escape from unsecured areas. Their curiosity and problem-solving abilities mean they can get into trouble if left unsupervised in unsafe environments. These dogs are generally well-adapted to cold weather thanks to their double coats but can overheat in warm conditions, so exercise during cooler parts of the day in summer. Due to their unique joint structure, avoid forcing them into positions or over-exercising puppies to protect developing joints. Always use a secure harness rather than a collar for walks, as their flexible necks could potentially slip out of collars. Their intelligence means they enjoy variety in their exercise routine and can become bored with repetitive activities.
Diet & Nutrition
Proper nutrition is particularly important for Norwegian Lundehunds due to their predisposition to gastrointestinal issues, requiring careful attention to diet quality and consistency.
Puppy Diet
0-12 Months
High-quality puppy food formulated for small to medium breeds, fed 3-4 times daily. Monitor for any signs of digestive sensitivity from an early age.
Puppies need frequent, measured meals for proper growth and development.
Adult Diet
1-7 Years
High-quality adult dog food with easily digestible ingredients. Adults typically need 1-1.5 cups daily, divided into two meals, adjusted for activity level.
Many Lundehunds benefit from sensitive stomach formulas.
Senior Diet
7+ Years
Senior formula with joint support and adjusted nutrient levels. Monitor weight and adjust portions as metabolism slows with age.
Seniors may need smaller, more frequent meals to aid digestion.
Nutritional Requirements
- Protein: Moderate levels from high-quality, easily digestible sources
- Fat: Controlled levels appropriate for activity level
- Digestibility: Highly digestible ingredients to support gastrointestinal health
- Limited Ingredients: Some dogs benefit from limited ingredient diets
- Portion Control: Important to maintain ideal body condition
Feeding Considerations
Norwegian Lundehunds are prone to gastrointestinal issues collectively known as Lundehund Syndrome, which can include protein-losing enteropathy, inflammatory bowel disease, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Many Lundehunds require special dietary management, which may include prescription diets, limited ingredient foods, or novel protein sources. Work closely with your veterinarian to develop an appropriate feeding plan, and be prepared to make adjustments based on your dog's individual needs. Symptoms like chronic diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, or poor condition despite good appetite should be addressed promptly with veterinary care. Some Lundehunds benefit from probiotics or digestive enzymes, but always consult your veterinarian before adding supplements. Consistency in diet is important, as frequent changes can trigger digestive upset.
Health & Care
While generally healthy, Norwegian Lundehunds face specific health challenges related to their small genetic population, particularly gastrointestinal issues that require careful management.
Common Health Concerns
| Health Condition | Description | Prevention/Management |
|---|---|---|
| Lundehund Syndrome | Collection of gastrointestinal issues including protein-losing enteropathy | Specialized diet, medication, regular veterinary monitoring |
| Patellar Luxation | Kneecap dislocation common in small breeds | Weight management, surgical correction if severe |
| Eye Disorders | Cataracts, lens luxation, other eye issues | Regular eye exams, surgical correction if needed |
| Skin Issues | Various skin conditions and allergies | Proper grooming, dietary management, veterinary care |
| Dental Issues | Periodontal disease common in small breeds | Regular dental care, professional cleanings |
Grooming Requirements
The Norwegian Lundehund's double coat requires regular maintenance to keep it healthy, though their grooming needs are generally moderate.
Regular Brushing
Weekly
Weekly brushing with slicker brush or undercoat rake. Daily brushing during heavy shedding seasons in spring and fall. Regular nail trimming and dental care.
Heavy shedding occurs during seasonal changes.
Bathing & Maintenance
Monthly
Bathing every 4-6 weeks or when dirty. Professional grooming not typically needed. Special attention to drying after bathing and checking extra toes.
Pay special attention to cleaning and drying between extra toes.
Preventive Care
- Regular Veterinary Visits: Semi-annual check-ups recommended for monitoring gastrointestinal health
- Dental Care: Daily brushing and professional cleanings as needed
- Weight Management: Important to prevent joint stress and other issues
- Gastrointestinal Monitoring: Regular check-ups to monitor for Lundehund Syndrome
- Parasite Prevention: Regular flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
Training & Behavior
Training a Norwegian Lundehund requires patience, creativity, and an understanding of their intelligent but independent nature.
Training Approach
- Positive Reinforcement: Use reward-based training with high-value treats, praise, and play
- Short Sessions: Keep training brief and engaging to maintain focus
- Variety: Incorporate new challenges and games to prevent boredom
- Patience: Lundehunds are independent thinkers and may not respond immediately
- Consistency: Establish clear rules and expectations from the beginning
Socialization Needs
Early and extensive socialization is crucial for Norwegian Lundehunds:
- Puppy Classes: Enroll in puppy kindergarten for early socialization
- Various Environments: Expose to different people, places, and situations
- Positive Experiences: Ensure new experiences are positive and not overwhelming
- Ongoing Socialization: Continue social experiences throughout their life
Training Tips
Norwegian Lundehunds respond best to positive, patient training methods that respect their intelligence and independence. Their working heritage means they were bred to make decisions without human direction, which can translate to stubbornness in training. Socialization is particularly important to ensure they develop into well-adjusted adults comfortable in various situations. Training should focus on building a strong bond and establishing reliable obedience, with special emphasis on recall and leash skills. Remember that Lundehunds can be sensitive to harsh treatment and respond better to encouragement than correction. These intelligent dogs excel when training incorporates their natural problem-solving abilities through games and puzzles rather than repetitive exercises. Be prepared for potentially lengthy house-training, as some Lundehunds take longer to train than other breeds.
Common Behavioral Issues
- Stubbornness: May ignore commands if not properly motivated
- Destructive Behavior: Can occur if bored or under-stimulated
- Wariness with Strangers: May be reserved without proper socialization
- Climbing/Escaping: Natural climbers who may attempt to escape unsecured areas
- Independent Thinking: May make their own decisions rather than following commands
Living Environment
Norwegian Lundehunds can adapt to various living situations when their needs for exercise, mental stimulation, and secure containment are met.
Ideal Home Setup
- Space: Adaptable to apartments with sufficient exercise, but do best with access to secure outdoor space
- Secure Fencing: Essential due to their climbing abilities - may require special containment solutions
- Indoor Access: Should live indoors as part of the family, not kept outdoors exclusively
- Safe Environment: Protection from hazards they might climb or explore inappropriately
Family Compatibility
- Children: Generally good with older, respectful children; supervision with young children
- Other Pets: Usually good with other pets when properly introduced, especially if raised together
- Seniors: May be suitable if exercise needs can be met
- First-time Owners: Can be challenging due to independent nature and health considerations
Important Considerations
Norwegian Lundehunds are rare dogs with specific needs that require committed, knowledgeable owners. Their potential gastrointestinal issues mean owners should be prepared for possible special dietary needs and veterinary care. Their intelligence and independence can make training challenging for inexperienced owners. These dogs require secure containment due to their climbing abilities - standard fencing may not be sufficient. Their rarity means finding a puppy may require joining waiting lists and potentially traveling. The small gene pool means health considerations are particularly important, and responsible breeding practices are essential. Prospective owners should research thoroughly and connect with breed clubs and experienced owners before committing to this unique breed.
Best Living Situation
The ideal home for a Norwegian Lundehund is with an individual or family who:
- Can provide consistent training and socialization
- Has secure containment for a skilled climber
- Values an intelligent, independent companion
- Is prepared for potential gastrointestinal health issues
- Appreciates a unique breed with fascinating history
Cost & Availability
Norwegian Lundehunds are exceptionally rare with specific considerations regarding cost and availability due to their limited population and conservation status.
Initial Costs
| Expense | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,500 - $3,000+ | From reputable breeders; very limited availability |
| Adoption Fee | $300 - $600 | Rarely available through rescue; breed-specific rescues uncommon |
| Initial Supplies | $400 - $800 | Crate, bed, bowls, collar, leash, grooming tools, secure fencing |
| Initial Vet Care | $500 - $1,000 | Exams, vaccinations, spay/neuter, microchip, gastrointestinal screening |
| Training Classes | $200 - $500 | Puppy kindergarten and basic obedience |
Annual Costs
- Food: $400 - $800 for high-quality dog food, potentially more for special diets
- Veterinary Care: $500 - $1,500+ for routine care and potential gastrointestinal issues
- Grooming: $200 - $400 for supplies or professional grooming
- Preventive Medications: $300 - $600 for flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
- Training/Activities: $200 - $500 for ongoing classes or activities
- Miscellaneous: $300 - $600 for toys, treats, replacements
- Insurance: $500 - $900 for health insurance
Availability
- Breeders: Very limited number of reputable breeders; extensive research essential
- Rescues: Rarely available through general shelters; breed-specific rescues uncommon
- Popularity: Ranked as the rarest AKC breed; 197th of 197 breeds
- Geographic Variation: More common in Scandinavia and certain European countries
- Waiting Period: Often lengthy waits for puppies from reputable breeders
Similar Breeds
If you're interested in the Norwegian Lundehund but want to explore similar breeds, consider these alternatives:
Norwegian Buhund
Similar Nordic heritage but bred as an all-purpose farm dog rather than specialized hunter. Generally more biddable with fewer health concerns.
Icelandic Sheepdog
Similar Spitz type with Nordic origins but bred for herding rather than hunting. Generally more sociable and eager to please.
Shiba Inu
Similar independent nature and clean habits but with different origins. Generally more catlike in personality with strong preservation instinct.
Norrbottenspets
Similar Nordic hunting background but bred for different game. Used in Lundehund outcrossing program to increase genetic diversity.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Norwegian Lundehund's six toes on each foot developed as a specialized adaptation for their original work as puffin hunters on steep, slippery cliffs. The extra toes provide better grip and traction when climbing rocky surfaces and help distribute their weight more effectively. Each toe is fully formed with its own joints, muscles, and claws, functioning much like snowshoes to prevent the dogs from sinking into loose scree or slipping on wet rocks. This polydactyl characteristic, along with their other unique physical adaptations, made them exceptionally well-suited to navigating the challenging terrain where puffins nested. The extra toes also aided in digging into puffin burrows and provided stability when making sharp turns in narrow passages.
The Norwegian Lundehund is exceptionally rare, ranking as the rarest dog breed according to American Kennel Club registration statistics. There are only approximately 1,500 Lundehunds worldwide, with about 900 of those in Norway. The breed's rarity stems from their near-extinction in the mid-20th century when distemper outbreaks and changing hunting practices reduced the population to just six dogs in 1963. All modern Lundehunds descend from these six survivors, creating a significant genetic bottleneck. While careful breeding has increased their numbers, they remain one of the world's rarest dog breeds. Finding a Lundehund puppy typically requires joining waiting lists with reputable breeders and may involve significant travel, as breeders are limited and widely dispersed.
Norwegian Lundehunds can make good family pets for the right households, but they have specific needs and characteristics that may not suit every family. They are typically loyal and form strong bonds with their families, and their small size makes them suitable for various living situations. However, their independent nature and potential wariness with strangers require proper socialization from an early age. They generally do well with older, respectful children but may be too sensitive for rough handling by young children. Their intelligence and energy require committed owners who can provide adequate exercise and mental stimulation. Families considering a Lundehund should be prepared for potential health issues, particularly gastrointestinal problems, and the training challenges that come with their independent thinking. With proper socialization, training, and care, they can be wonderful, unique family companions.
Lundehund Syndrome is a collection of gastrointestinal disorders common in the breed, resulting from their limited genetic diversity. The condition includes intestinal lymphangiectasia, which impairs nutrient absorption, protein-losing enteropathy that causes protein loss through the intestines, inflammatory bowel disease, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Symptoms can include chronic diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss despite good appetite, lethargy, and poor condition. The syndrome varies in severity, with some dogs showing mild symptoms that are easily managed and others experiencing more significant health challenges. There is no cure, but the condition can often be managed through special diets, medications, and regular veterinary care. Prospective owners should be aware of this health concern and work with breeders who screen for these issues and veterinarians experienced with the breed's unique health challenges.
Norwegian Lundehunds present unique training challenges due to their independent nature and history of working autonomously. They are intelligent and capable learners but may question the purpose of commands and can be easily bored with repetition. Unlike breeds bred to work closely with humans, Lundehunds were developed to make their own decisions while hunting in dangerous cliff environments, which can translate to stubbornness in training. They respond best to positive reinforcement methods, short engaging training sessions, and variety in their training routine. Harsh methods are counterproductive with this sensitive breed. House training may take longer than with some other breeds, and consistent, patient approach is essential. While not the easiest breed to train, they are capable of learning and can excel in activities that engage their problem-solving abilities, such as nose work, puzzle games, and agility.
Norwegian Lundehunds have moderate to high exercise requirements, typically needing 45-60 minutes of daily activity. This should include both physical exercise and mental stimulation, as their intelligence requires engagement as much as their bodies need movement. Suitable activities include walks, play sessions, hiking, and opportunities for safe climbing. Their natural agility and curiosity make them excellent companions for outdoor activities, but secure containment is essential due to their climbing abilities. Mental stimulation through training games, puzzle toys, and nose work is particularly important for this intelligent breed. Lundehunds who don't receive adequate exercise and mental enrichment may develop destructive behaviors or become bored. While they have good stamina, they are generally adaptable to their owner's activity level as long as their basic needs are met.
The average lifespan of a Norwegian Lundehund is 12-14 years, which is typical for a small to medium-sized breed. However, their longevity can be affected by Lundehund Syndrome and other health issues related to their limited genetic diversity. With excellent care, appropriate management of any gastrointestinal issues, and regular veterinary attention, some Lundehunds may live even longer. Factors that influence lifespan include genetics, diet, exercise, preventive veterinary care, and management of breed-specific health issues. Providing a healthy lifestyle with proper weight management, attention to gastrointestinal health, and prompt treatment of any health concerns can help ensure your Lundehund lives a long, healthy life. Choosing a reputable breeder who practices careful genetic selection and health testing can also contribute to longevity.
Norwegian Lundehunds can be challenging for first-time dog owners due to their independent nature, potential health issues, and specific care requirements. Their intelligence and self-directed thinking can make training more difficult than with more biddable breeds, and their potential gastrointestinal issues require owners who can manage special dietary needs and veterinary care. Additionally, their rarity means fewer resources and mentors specifically familiar with the breed. However, a dedicated first-time owner who does thorough research, works with experienced trainers, commits to proper socialization and exercise, and is prepared for the potential health considerations could potentially succeed with a Lundehund. Most experts recommend starting with a less challenging breed for novice owners. If a first-time owner is committed to a Lundehund, professional training guidance, mentorship from experienced owners, and careful selection from a reputable breeder are essential.
Bottom Line: Is a Norwegian Lundehund Right for You?
The Norwegian Lundehund is a truly extraordinary breed with a fascinating history and unique physical characteristics unmatched in the canine world. These small but mighty dogs offer intelligence, loyalty, and a captivating presence that reflects their specialized heritage as cliff-climbing puffin hunters. However, they're not the right choice for everyone. Their independent nature, potential health challenges, and specific care requirements demand committed, knowledgeable owners who understand and appreciate their unique characteristics. They thrive in homes that can provide secure containment for skilled climbers, consistent positive training, and attention to their potential gastrointestinal health needs. If you're prepared for the commitment of owning one of the world's rarest breeds and can provide the necessary care, training, and understanding, a Norwegian Lundehund might be your perfect companion. This remarkable breed rewards dedicated owners with unwavering loyalty, fascinating behaviors, and a living connection to ancient Norwegian hunting traditions.
References and Further Readings
1- Gut microbiome dysbiosis is associated with host genetics in the Norwegian Lundehund | PMC
2- Genetic Rescue of the Highly Inbred Norwegian Lundehund | MDPI
3- Cross-Breeding Is Inevitable to Conserve the Highly Inbred Norwegian Lundehund | PMC
4- Norwegian Lundehund Dog Breed Health and Care | PetMD
5- Chronic Enteropathy in Dogs—Epidemiologic Aspects and Clinical Characteristics | MDPI
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