Norwegian Lundehund 

“Fox Dog” with Unique Anatomy

The medium-sized Lundehund slightly resembles a fox and, being a rare breed, is sometimes mistaken for a mixed breed, a Nordic mix. Contrary to this assumption, the Lundehund is highly specialised: it was bred specifically for hunting puffins, a bird species that nests in burrows. Consequently, it possesses some unique anatomical features: Its shoulder joints are more flexible, allowing it to rotate its forelegs 90° to the side.

Additionally, the dog can close its pointed, upright ears, making it a better diver. Its most remarkable feature, however, is the six toes on each foot and up to eight pads, which provide tremendous grip for this former cliff hunter. Some of these dogs also lack molars, facilitating the transport of captured birds without damaging them.

The Nordic Lundehund has a shoulder height of up to 38cm and weighs a sporty, light 7kg. Its dense fur is short and ranges from red to fawn, with black tips in places. It consists of a soft, very fine undercoat and rough top coat.

Norwegian Lundehund: Highly Specialised Bird Hunter

The history of the Lundehund is closely tied to the Norwegian coast, particularly the village of Måstad. For centuries, these dogs and their ancestors were used for hunting puffins and collecting their eggs. The name reflects this: “Lunde” is the Norwegian word for these birds.

Its anatomical peculiarities suit the Norwegian Lundehund for hunting coastal birds: At least six well-developed toes ensure stability on the rocky cliffs. Flexible shoulder joints and closeable ears help the dog crawl through the birds’ underground tunnels and dive well. However, as puffins began to be increasingly caught with nets from the mid-19th century onwards, the need for the Lundehund diminished, almost leading to the breed’s extinction.

Today’s Lundehunds can all trace their origins back to Måstad on the island of Værøy. Around 1940, distemper wiped out all the dogs on the island. The breed was saved by a handful of Lundehunds that existed outside the island. Their owner, Eleonora Christie, gave these last remaining dogs to the inhabitants of Måstad.

Thus, the current population comes from just five dogs and remains small. However, if you are determined and willing to travel, there is a good chance you will find one. Most Lundehunds, naturally, are found in Norway. These four-legged hunters are no longer used for puffin hunting, as the birds are now a protected, endangered species. 

The Norwegian Lundehund Has an Affectionate Temperament

The Lundehund is an uncomplicated and handy four-legged companion with lots of energy to expend. Due to its independent nature – it often had to rely on itself during hunts – it retains its autonomy and will never be completely subservient.

Understanding this, you will find the Lundehund to be an easy-to-train and loyal lifelong friend.

The breed is generally considered quite shy, making a close bond with its owner crucial for its safety. It tends to be reserved with strangers but is usually alert. The Lundehund generally gets along well with other dogs and is not a typical hunting dog, making it also a wonderful family pet.

Norwegian Lundehund Training: Small Challenges

Although these dogs have a bit of a stubborn streak, they are otherwise easy to train and learn basic commands with high motivation. Despite being a hunting breed, with some training, the Lundehund can accompany you on off-lead walks, as it is relatively less prone to running off. A bigger challenge is discouraging its barking. Like all Nordic dogs, Lundehunds announce any interesting perceived happenings in their surroundings quite vocally – often persistently.

Patience is key when training a Lundehund. Make sure to start addressing this aspect in puppyhood. Puppy play classes and attending a dog school can be beneficial – they provide opportunities to socialise your dog with others and offer training tips. 

Health: Lundehund Syndrome 

With a population reduced to just five dogs, the controlled breeding of the breed began anew in the 1960s. As a result, the Lundehund has a very small gene pool. One of the five founding dogs developed gastrointestinal symptoms around the age of three, which spread among its descendants.

This condition, known as Lundehund Syndrome, is a chronic, inflammatory bowel disease characterised by increased protein loss through the gut. About half of the breed is affected, with varying degrees of severity. A genetic test can determine whether a dog intended for breeding carries the syndrome, helping to reduce the risk.

Lundehund Syndrome is incurable – only the symptoms can be alleviated. While some dogs are barely affected and have long symptom-free periods, the disease can lead to severe illness and eventually death in others. Educate yourself thoroughly about Lundehund Syndrome and the genetic test’s implications before deciding to adopt one.

Associations for Nordic dogs can also provide relevant information.

How Long Do They Live?

Healthy Norwegian Lundehunds are otherwise very robust and can live up to about 14 years.

Norwegian Lundehund: Well-Groomed 

The fur of this Norwegian coastal dog is weather-resistant and requires little care. However, the more you brush, the fewer hairs you will find around the house – daily brushing is particularly beneficial during the shedding period when the Lundehund loses a lot of hair. Otherwise, maintenance is straightforward – dirt can be easily brushed out when dried.

Interestingly, Lundehunds are among the few dogs that like to groom themselves extensively.

Supporting them with a brush not only helps with fur maintenance but also strengthens your bond. Regularly check and clean their ears and eyes with specific cleansers as needed. If your Lundehund’s eyes water due to narrow tear ducts, daily gentle cleansing with clean water suffices.

Many dog owners advocate for daily dental hygiene in the form of tooth brushing with dog-specific toothpaste and brushes. Introducing this routine in puppyhood can effectively prevent tartar and its related health issues.

Activities for the Norwegian Lundehund

Long walks in nature, whatever the weather, are fundamental for this sporty Norwegian. Many Lundehunds also love to swim – make your companion happy and give it the opportunity to do so! Additionally, mental stimulation and skill practice are important.

You have plenty of options for engaging activities: Adult Lundehunds can enjoy almost any canine sport, except for sled dog sports. Due to its independence, don’t expect absolute obedience but take a relaxed approach to the activity.

Explore different sports with your furry friend to find the most enjoyable one! 

Is the Norwegian Lundehund Right for Me?

A Norwegian Lundehund fits well into an active family with at least one member experienced with dogs. It learns eagerly, but training requires some know-how and consistency. This breed needs plenty of exercise – the little fox is no couch potato and thrives on outdoor activities and ample time.

It generally likes children and can get along with cats, particularly if introduced as a puppy. The manageable dog can live comfortably in a medium-sized flat but, of course, enjoys a secure garden. It is important to manage the breed’s tendency to bark.

Before bringing one home, ensure no one in your household has a pet hair allergy and consider if you can and want to take the dog on holiday – many hotels now welcome four-legged guests – or how you will organise care.

While the Lundehund is a small dog, regular costs can be substantial: High-quality, fish-rich food, dog tax, insurance, and vet check-ups. Additionally, there’s the significant purchase price and potential travel expenses.

Where to Find Your Norwegian Lundehund?

First of all, the Norwegian Lundehund is very rare. With a global population of around 1,300, expect long waits and considerable travel to get one. Most Lundehunds are in Norway. Contact associations for Norwegian dogs in your country to find Lundehund breeders. Ask potential breeders about Lundehund Syndrome and the breed’s diet.

Your young Lundehund will join you at the earliest at eight weeks old – if from outside the country, it will need proper documents and usually a valid rabies vaccination and be older. Don’t forget needed booster vaccinations and talk to your vet about regular deworming.

Finding an already adult Lundehund is extremely unlikely, especially outside Norway. If you seek an adult dog, still contact a Nordic dog association. Often, there are charming mixed breeds needing new homes.

We wish you much delight with your exceptional Norwegian Lundehund!