About Breed
The Norwegian Lundehund is an extremely rare and unique dog, originally bred to hunt puffins in Norway. It is small, agile, and known for its six toes on each foot and extraordinary flexibility. This breed is alert, intelligent, and independent, requiring early socialization and consistent training. Lundehunds have a thick double coat that needs moderate grooming. They are affectionate with their family, playful, and curious, though they may be reserved with strangers. Due to their unique anatomy, special attention to diet and joint health is needed. This breed is remarkable for its rare traits and lively personality.
Origin
Norway
Size
Small / Medium
Ideal Space
House / Yard
Top 5 Traits
- Intelligent
- Agile
- Alert
- Energetic
- Curious
Height
30 cms (males)
28 cms (females)
Coat Length
Short
Coat Type
Double Coat
Life Expectancy
12 – 15 years
Ideal Weather
-5°C to 22°C
Weight
7 kgs (Male)
6 kgs (Female)
Color
- Gray, Black, White
Job & Working Abilities
- Hunting
- Companion
Allergies & Hypoallergenic Status
- Not hypoallergenic
- Low shed
- Skin sensitivity possible
- Low dander
Common Behavior Issues
- Barking
- Sensitivity
Travel & Adaptability
- High Traveller
Characteristics
The Norwegian Lundehund is a rare and unique spitz breed from Norway, originally developed to hunt puffins along steep coastal cliffs. It is famous for its unusual physical traits, including six toes on each foot, highly flexible joints, and the ability to bend its head backward to touch its spine. These features helped it climb rocky terrain and enter narrow crevices. The breed has a compact, agile body, erect ears, and a curled tail. Norwegian Lundehunds are lively, curious, and affectionate with their families, though they may be reserved with strangers. They are intelligent but can be independent, requiring patient, positive training methods. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are important to keep them engaged. Grooming needs are moderate, with routine brushing to maintain their dense double coat. With proper care and understanding, the Norwegian Lundehund becomes a devoted, playful, and fascinating companion.
Pet Nutrition
Nutrition Information
The Norwegian Lundehund is a small, rare, and highly agile breed originally developed for hunting puffins along cliffs. Due to its unique physiology and tendency toward digestive sensitivity, it requires a carefully managed diet. Puppies need high-quality small-breed puppy food rich in protein, fat, and essential vitamins and minerals to support healthy growth, bone development, and energy. Adults thrive on diets with high-quality animal protein sources like chicken, fish, or lean beef to maintain lean muscle mass, with moderate healthy fats to fuel activity and support skin and coat health. Complex carbohydrates such as rice, barley, or vegetables provide digestible energy and help maintain gastrointestinal health. Feeding should be portion-controlled, typically two meals per day, with treats limited to low-calorie options. Fresh water should always be accessible. Supplements like omega-3 fatty acids enhance coat and skin health, while digestive enzymes may benefit sensitive stomachs. Due to predisposition to gastrointestinal issues, avoid human foods, high-fat snacks, or excessive dairy. Regular veterinary monitoring is essential to adjust portion size and nutrients. Seasonal adjustments may be necessary for activity levels or climate. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet ensures the Norwegian Lundehund maintains energy, agility, lean muscle, and digestive stability. Proper nutrition supports overall health, vitality, and longevity, enabling this intelligent, unique, and active breed to thrive in home and working environments.
- Puppy - 400 – 700 kcal
- Adolescent - 800 – 1,200 kcal
- Adult - 1,200 – 2,000 kcal
- Senior - 900 – 1,500 kcal
Calories per day
List of Meat
- Chicken
- Beef
- Turkey
- Chicken Chunks
- Duck Meat
List of Vegetables
- Spinach
- Carrot
- Green Beans
- Sweet Potato
- Peas
Diet Information
The Norwegian Lundehund is a small to medium, agile breed with unique joint flexibility, requiring a nutrient-rich, high-protein diet to maintain energy, lean muscle, and joint health. Puppies should receive small- to medium-breed puppy food with balanced protein, fats, calcium, and phosphorus to support healthy skeletal growth and immune system development. Adults thrive on high-quality animal protein sources such as chicken, fish, or lamb to maintain lean muscle mass, with moderate healthy fats providing sustained energy and supporting skin and coat condition. Complex carbohydrates like rice, oats, or vegetables supply digestible energy and help maintain gastrointestinal health. Feeding should be portion-controlled, typically in two meals per day, with low-calorie treats for training or enrichment. Fresh water must always be accessible. Supplements like omega-3 fatty acids enhance coat and skin health, while glucosamine supports joint function, crucial for this breed’s unique skeletal structure. Avoid toxic human foods including chocolate, grapes, onions, and processed snacks. Seasonal adjustments may be necessary depending on activity, climate, or hunting workload. A carefully managed diet ensures the Norwegian Lundehund maintains energy, agility, lean muscle, and overall vitality. Combined with regular exercise and mental stimulation, proper feeding supports cardiovascular health, joint mobility, and longevity, allowing this intelligent, alert, and rare breed to thrive in active, working, or companion environments while maintaining optimal health and performance.
- Brown Rice
- Oatmeal
- Quinoa
- Barley
- Squash
List of Carbs
- Loquat
- Blackcurrant
- Redcurrant
- White Currant
- Elderberry Juice
List of Fruits
- Olive Oil
- Coconut Oil
- Flaxseed Oil
- Fish Oil
- Canola Oil
List of Fats
Safe Foods
Safe foods for the Norwegian Lundehund should emphasize digestibility and balanced nutrition due to the breed’s known digestive sensitivity. Lean cooked proteins such as chicken, turkey, fish, and lamb help maintain muscle mass while being gentle on the stomach. Cooked eggs can be included occasionally for additional nutrients. Easily digestible carbohydrates like white rice, oats, and sweet potatoes provide mild energy and support gastrointestinal comfort. Vegetables including pumpkin, carrots, green beans, and zucchini offer fiber and essential vitamins beneficial for digestive health. Fruits such as blueberries, apple slices without seeds, and banana pieces may be given in small amounts as treats. Plain yogurt can support gut health through probiotics when tolerated. Small quantities of fish oil contribute to skin and coat condition. All foods must be served plain, avoiding seasoning, salt, onions, and oils. Controlled portions and careful food selection help ensure safe dietary enrichment alongside a balanced primary diet.
List of Unsafe Foods
- Chocolate
- Garlic
- Grapes
- Onions
Unsafe Foods
Norwegian Lundehunds have sensitive digestion and must avoid harmful foods. Chocolate and caffeine can overstimulate the nervous system and heart. Grapes and raisins may cause kidney failure and should never be offered. Onions, garlic, chives, and leeks can damage red blood cells and lead to anemia. Xylitol in sugar-free gum and candies can cause rapid hypoglycemia and liver damage. Cooked bones can splinter, creating choking hazards and intestinal injuries. Fatty scraps and fried foods may trigger pancreatitis and worsen digestive sensitivity. Alcohol and raw dough can produce harmful fermentation effects. Macadamia nuts may cause weakness and vomiting. Excess salt can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Moldy or spoiled foods may contain toxins that affect neurological health. Avoid spicy or heavily seasoned dishes that may irritate the gastrointestinal tract and worsen existing digestive issues.
Pet Health
Health Information
The Norwegian Lundehund is a small, highly agile, and unique spitz-type breed originating from Norway, historically used for hunting puffins on steep cliffs. Maintaining optimal health requires a comprehensive approach, including proper nutrition, preventive veterinary care, regular exercise, grooming, and mental stimulation. Common health concerns include patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, gastroenteropathy, and digestive sensitivities, particularly Lundehund Syndrome, which can cause chronic gastrointestinal issues. Routine veterinary check-ups, ideally once or twice per year, are essential to monitor overall health, detect early signs of illness, and maintain vaccination schedules. Standard vaccinations, including rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and bordetella, should be administered on schedule, with annual boosters to ensure continued protection. Parasite prevention through monthly flea, tick, and deworming treatments is crucial to prevent infestations and secondary health issues. Norwegian Lundehunds are active dogs requiring at least 45–60 minutes of daily exercise, including walking, climbing, running, and interactive play, to maintain cardiovascular fitness, lean muscle, and joint mobility. Mental stimulation is equally important; puzzle toys, obedience training, scent work, and interactive games help prevent boredom-related behaviors such as excessive barking, chewing, or digging. Grooming needs are moderate due to their dense double coat; weekly brushing removes loose hair, distributes natural oils, and maintains coat health, while seasonal professional grooming helps manage shedding. Ear care prevents infections, and dental hygiene, including brushing and providing dental chews, reduces tartar buildup and supports oral health. Nutrition should consist of high-quality protein, digestible carbohydrates, and moderate fats to support energy, coat condition, and overall wellness, with special attention to digestive health to prevent gastrointestinal problems. Weight management is essential, as overfeeding can exacerbate joint and digestive issues. Early socialization with children, other pets, and strangers fosters confidence, emotional stability, and proper behavior. Monitoring appetite, activity, and behavior allows timely intervention for potential health concerns. With proper care, Norwegian Lundehunds can live 12–15 years, remaining intelligent, agile, loyal, and affectionate companions. Combining preventive veterinary care, balanced nutrition, exercise, grooming, and mental enrichment ensures Norwegian Lundehunds thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally throughout life.
Common Health Issues
- Allergies
- Patella Luxation
Energy Level
- High
Allergies & Hypoallergenic
- Not hypoallergenic
- Low shed
- Skin sensitivity possible
- Low dander
Well Being
- Active
- Agile
Recognizing Stress
- Barking
- Sensitivity
Exercise Routine
- 45 to 60 minutes
The Norwegian Lundehund is a small, highly agile, and unique spitz-type breed originating from Norway, historically used for hunting puffins on steep cliffs. Maintaining optimal health requires a comprehensive approach, including proper nutrition, preventive veterinary care, regular exercise, grooming, and mental stimulation. Common health concerns include patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, gastroenteropathy, and digestive sensitivities, particularly Lundehund Syndrome, which can cause chronic gastrointestinal issues. Routine veterinary check-ups, ideally once or twice per year, are essential to monitor overall health, detect early signs of illness, and maintain vaccination schedules. Standard vaccinations, including rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and bordetella, should be administered on schedule, with annual boosters to ensure continued protection. Parasite prevention through monthly flea, tick, and deworming treatments is crucial to prevent infestations and secondary health issues. Norwegian Lundehunds are active dogs requiring at least 45–60 minutes of daily exercise, including walking, climbing, running, and interactive play, to maintain cardiovascular fitness, lean muscle, and joint mobility. Mental stimulation is equally important; puzzle toys, obedience training, scent work, and interactive games help prevent boredom-related behaviors such as excessive barking, chewing, or digging. Grooming needs are moderate due to their dense double coat; weekly brushing removes loose hair, distributes natural oils, and maintains coat health, while seasonal professional grooming helps manage shedding. Ear care prevents infections, and dental hygiene, including brushing and providing dental chews, reduces tartar buildup and supports oral health. Nutrition should consist of high-quality protein, digestible carbohydrates, and moderate fats to support energy, coat condition, and overall wellness, with special attention to digestive health to prevent gastrointestinal problems. Weight management is essential, as overfeeding can exacerbate joint and digestive issues. Early socialization with children, other pets, and strangers fosters confidence, emotional stability, and proper behavior. Monitoring appetite, activity, and behavior allows timely intervention for potential health concerns. With proper care, Norwegian Lundehunds can live 12–15 years, remaining intelligent, agile, loyal, and affectionate companions. Combining preventive veterinary care, balanced nutrition, exercise, grooming, and mental enrichment ensures Norwegian Lundehunds thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally throughout life.
Pet Activities:
Engaging your pet in daily walks, fetch, or toys keeps your pet fit, mentally sharp, and well-behaved while strengthening your bond.
Exploration Walks & Climbing Play (30–35 mins)
Norwegian Lundehunds enjoy active exploration, climbing activities, and playful outdoor exercise.
Exploration Walks & Agility Drills (35 – 45 mins)
Norwegian Lundehunds thrive on structured walks, agility exercises, and interactive outdoor play.
Obedience Training (20 – 30 mins)
Structured training sessions using commands like sit, stay, recall, and heel help improve discipline and mental stimulation. Akitas are intelligent and independent; consistent obedience training enhances discipline and mental engagement.
The Norwegian Lundehund has a short to medium-length double coat that is relatively easy to maintain but benefits from consistent grooming to support skin and coat health. Brushing once or twice weekly with a soft bristle brush or rubber grooming mitt helps remove loose hair, distribute natural oils, and keep the coat clean. Shedding is moderate, with seasonal increases requiring more frequent brushing to manage excess fur. Bathing should be performed every two to three months or when necessary, using a gentle dog shampoo that maintains natural oil balance. Overbathing should be avoided to prevent skin dryness. Regular ear checks and gentle cleaning help remove wax and debris, reducing infection risk. Nail trimming every three to four weeks is important, especially because the breed’s unique foot structure benefits from proper nail maintenance for comfortable movement. Dental care should include brushing teeth several times weekly or providing dental chews to support oral hygiene. Because Norwegian Lundehunds are active and agile, routine inspection of paws for cuts or debris is recommended. Grooming sessions also provide opportunities to monitor skin condition, parasites, or abnormalities. With regular grooming and gentle handling, the Norwegian Lundehund remains comfortable, clean, and healthy while maintaining its natural coat characteristics throughout the year.
Shedding Level
Low
Hygienic Checklist
- Brushing
- Nail Trimming
- Ear Cleaning
Benefits of Grooming
- Coat & Skin Health
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