Norwegian Lundehund: temperament, size, care and health

About the Norwegian Lundehund

The Norwegian Lundehund is an unusual, fox-like spitz with a rectangular outline, erect ears and a tightly curled tail. It stands about 12 to 15 inches and weighs 20 to 30 pounds. Its specialization shows in the body. Each foot has six well-developed toes, including extra ones that grip steep rock, and the front legs rotate outward. The neck and shoulders are so flexible that the dog can bend its head back along its spine, and the ears can fold closed to keep out dirt and moisture.

The Lundehund was bred to climb into the narrow crevices of sea cliffs in Norway to retrieve puffins for food. Today it is a lively companion and a rarity, and anyone who wants one should expect a waiting list and a careful health conversation with the breeder.

Temperament and family life

A Lundehund is bright, curious and affectionate with its family, though it can be reserved with strangers. It is a very alert dog, and it barks with a sharp voice at noises and at passing activity. Most do well with other dogs, and some like having a canine companion.

With children the breed is generally playful, though it is a small, energetic dog that does not like to be squeezed. A Lundehund climbs, digs and squeezes through gaps, so households should plan around a pet that can find its way over a fence or into a cupboard. Some individuals are nervous and need patient handling.

Exercise and training

The Lundehund needs a daily walk and active play, and the best outlets exploit its natural talents: climbing, scrambling on safe obstacles, scent work and agility. Fencing should be tall and extend below ground if the dog digs. Off-leash time is risky outside enclosed areas because of the breed's independence and speed.

The breed is intelligent but not especially eager to take direction, and training tests an owner's patience. Short sessions with high-value rewards work best, and repetition quickly bores the dog. Socialization from an early age is valuable, as is crate training. The dog's dexterity and boredom can lead to destructive behavior, so provide puzzle toys and tasks.

Grooming and shedding

The coat is weather-resistant and easy. Brush weekly, more often during the seasonal shedding when the undercoat is lost, and bathe only when dirty. The ears, which can close, should be checked for debris. The nails need regular trimming, and the extra toes and dewclaws should be looked at for snags or overgrowth, since the unusual feet differ from those of other breeds. Brush the teeth regularly.

Health

The Lundehund is the subject of significant health concern. Many dogs are affected by Lundehund syndrome, a group of intestinal disorders that interfere with digestion and nutrient absorption and can be serious or life-shortening. Other issues include hip dysplasia, patellar luxation and dental problems. Because the breed descends from a tiny population, inbreeding is a concern. Responsible breeders keep detailed records, work with research programs and may advise on diet and monitoring.

This is general information about the breed. A veterinarian is the person to ask about any particular dog.

History

The breed is generally traced to the Lofoten Islands in northern Norway, where for centuries dogs hunted puffins on cliff ledges. When net-based puffin hunting replaced the dogs and a tax on dogs was introduced, the breed went into steep decline, and distemper around the Second World War and again in 1963 left only a handful of survivors. Dedicated breeders rebuilt the population from those few dogs, and the breed now exists around the world in small numbers. The American Kennel Club recognized it in 2011.

Is the Norwegian Lundehund right for you?

A Lundehund suits an experienced, patient owner who wants an athletic, unusual dog and is willing to learn about its digestive health. It is not for anyone seeking an easy first dog, a dog that is reliable off leash or a quiet apartment pet.

If you want a Nordic breed with a steadier outlook, compare the Norwegian Buhund and the larger Norwegian Elkhound. The Finnish Spitz is another northern breed with a lively voice.