Norwegian Lundehund

The Norwegian Lundehund is a bright and cheery dog from the island Vaeroy. These diligent workers are from the only breed that people created to hunt for Puffins. But since the Puffin is now a protected species, these loyal pups make great adventure companions and house pets. Expect and energetic and easy-going companion in this breed. Read on to learn more about the Norwegian Lundehund.

Description of the Norwegian Lundehund

Though they look like your average spitz-type dog, with pointed ears, a long, tapered muzzle, and a curled tail, there are many things that make the Norwegian Lundehund unique.

These dogs have six toes on each paw, which helps them climb rocky mountain terrain. They also have a neck like rubber that can bend completely back to their spines, ears that can fold shut, and shoulder joints that allow their legs to bend perpendicular to their bodies. Their gait looks very rotary thanks to this special joint rotation. But even though they have all these special qualities, it doesn’t change their affectionate and alert nature.

The Norwegian Lundehund also has a thick double coat that protects them from bad weather and is water resistant. They come in a variety of colors, from fallow to reddish brown to tan, and they have black tips and white, red, or dark markings.

Life Expectancy and Size

This robust breed often lives 12 – 15 years. They are generally healthy, but working with a reputable breeder will help ensure you get the healthiest puppy possible.

Compact and athletic, the Norwegian Lundehund is the perfect balance of small and durable. Males stand 13 – 15 inches tall, females are 12 – 14 inches, and they weigh 20 – 30 pounds.

Protective Ability

Friendly and outgoing, the Norwegian Lundehund is likely to greet everyone with a wagging tail and happy bark. They can make decent watchdogs but are too sweet to be guard dogs.

Training

The Norwegian Lundehund is a sensitive and intelligent breed. Use care and patience when training this dog, as he can develop trust issues or fear if not treated with the utmost respect and love.

Positive rewards-based training is a must for this breed. They are loyal and eager to learn, so providing them with something to work for that is from you will get them very excited.

The Norwegian Lundehund is extremely intelligent and an excellent problem solver. Canine sports are the perfect outlet for their mental prowess and athletic abilities. This also provides them a great opportunity to bond with you, which is very important for this breed.

Early socialization is ideal for these dogs. They are very outgoing and exposing them to many different situations and people will help them develop to their full potential.

Energy Level

Athletic but adaptable, the Norwegian Lundehund has moderate energy that doesn’t take too much time or effort to work out of him. Moderate daily exercise for 30 minutes is often enough for this breed. But these dogs can also be up for long hikes or adventures.

Sedentary families will find a great companion in this breed. Active – but not too active – the Norwegian Lundehund loves to lounge around when he isn’t fetching a ball or playing with you.

What Living with a Norwegian Lundehund is Like

This is an all-around kind breed.

These dogs love their families and do well with children and other dogs they are raised with. Expect a dog that is equally happy going on long hikes or vegging out with you while you read a book.

Many people can find a great pet in this breed. The Norwegian Lundehund just loves to be near his people and get enough exercise. These dogs don’t do well in small spaces, though, as they do love to run, so be sure you have a fenced in backyard or can take them out frequently.

Care of the Norwegian Lundehund

The Norwegian Lundehund is easygoing and low maintenance. They just need a safe place to run around and attention to be happy.

Environmental Needs

Bred to withstand icy waters and frigid winters, the Norwegian Lundehund does very well in cold weather. But these thick-coated dogs often struggle when it is warm. Provide them with a cool, shady place to rest and lots of water if you live in a hot climate.

Exercise Needs

Small and athletic, the Norwegian Lundehund doesn’t need too much exercise to stay fit and happy. They are capable of working long days but only need about 30 minutes to an hour of physical activity daily. This makes them ideal for athletic and sedentary families alike. These adaptable dogs are happy doing pretty much anything.

A few walks a day, backyard playtime, and canine sports are all great ways to give your Norwegian Lundehund some exercise.

Shedding and Grooming

Though they have a thick coat that may look daunting to groom, the Norwegian Lundehund is pretty low maintenance. A weekly brush through will remove loose hairs and keep your dog’s coat looking its best.

This breed sheds moderately.

Keep your dog’s ears clean, brush his teeth regularly, and trim his nails to make sure he doesn’t get any infections.

Ideal Home Environment

The Norwegian Lundehund flourishes in any home where he will receive love and attention. They thrive on mental challenges, so if you bring him to canine sports or keep him active through fun games he will be in doggy heaven. This breed does well with kids and other dogs he has been raised with.

It is important to acknowledge that this breed has potential health issues that can be expensive or time consuming to deal with.

Health Concerns

Patellar luxation, eye disorders, and oral problems are the most common issues for this breed. Working with a reputable breeder and bringing your dog in for regular checkups can help catch, treat, or prevent these issues.

Behavior Problems

The Norwegian Lundehund can have a serious case of wanderlust. Keeping your dog fenced in or on leash will prevent him from wandering off and getting into trouble.