Norwegian Lundehund

Origins and History

The Norwegian Lundehund (also called the Puffin Dog) originated in the coastal fjord islands of Norway. Bred in the 19th century to hunt puffins (Lunde in Norwegian) on steep cliffs, the breed was developed from native spitz‑type dogs that possessed extraordinary flexibility and climbing ability. The Lundehund survived a near‑extinction event during World War II, and a dedicated breeding program in the 1960s restored the population using a limited number of surviving lines. Today the breed is recognized by the FCI (Group 6 – Hound, breed number 331) and the Norwegian Kennel Club.

General Characteristics

• Small, compact hound with a distinctive, highly flexible skeleton (extra toes, double‑jointed neck).
• Alert, curious, and lively temperament; highly energetic but also affectionate with family.
• Originally a seabird hunting dog; today kept as a companion and show dog.

Physical Specifications

• Height: Males 13.5–15.5 inches (34–39 cm); Females 13–15 inches (33–38 cm).
• Weight: 10–15 lb (4.5–7 kg).
• Body: Well‑balanced, slightly longer than tall, deep chest, strong forequarters, short back.
• Feet: Five toes on each foot (polydactyly) with tight, compact pads.

Coat and Color

• Coat: Short, dense, harsh to the touch, weather‑resistant; no undercoat.
• Accepted colors: Wheaten (light to deep golden), red, black; white markings are permissible on chest, toes, and tip of tail.
• Any other colors or patterns are not permitted in the show ring.

Temperament Considerations

The Lundehund is intelligent and eager but can be independent and occasionally stubborn. Its high energy and curiosity require consistent, positive‑reinforcement training to channel its enthusiasm appropriately.

Training Essentials

• Early socialization with people, children, and other dogs to prevent over‑protectiveness.
• Daily mental and physical exercise (minimum 45 minutes of active play or structured work).
• Use reward‑based methods; harsh corrections may provoke fear or resistance.
• Teach recall and loose‑leash walking early, as the breed’s natural climbing instinct can lead to impulsive darting.

Daily Grooming

• Brush the short coat once or twice weekly with a soft‑bristle brush to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils.
• Bath as needed; avoid over‑bathing to preserve natural oil balance.
• Trim nails regularly (every 2–3 weeks) to maintain proper foot structure.
• Check ears weekly for debris and clean with a vet‑approved solution.
• Dental care: brush teeth several times a week or provide dental chews.

Show Preparation

• Begin a grooming schedule 7–10 days before the show: brush daily, bathe 48 hours prior, and dry thoroughly.
• Clip nails to the optimal length for a neat foot appearance; file any sharp edges.
• Trim foot hair (if any) to expose the toes and highlight the breed’s polydactyl trait.
• Apply a light coat conditioner or spray to enhance the harsh texture without adding shine.
• Present the dog on a level platform, ensuring the neck is cleanly displayed and the tail is carried in a natural, slightly elevated position.

Common Health Issues

• Lundehund syndrome (protein‑losing enteropathy) – a hereditary gastrointestinal disorder; regular veterinary monitoring of protein levels is advised.
• Patellar luxation – common in small breeds; screening during puppy exams.
• Hip dysplasia – low incidence but radiographic screening is recommended.
• Spinal anomalies (e.g., vertebral malformations) – can affect flexibility; neurologic exam recommended.
• Thyroid disorders and atopic dermatitis have been reported; routine blood work can aid early detection.

General Care

• Exercise: Minimum 45 minutes of vigorous activity daily; include climbing or obstacle work to satisfy the breed’s natural agility.
• Nutrition: High‑quality, balanced diet appropriate for small, active dogs; consider foods with moderate fat and adequate protein to support gastrointestinal health.
• Lifespan: Typically 12–15 years; regular health checks and preventative care can help achieve the upper range.