Non-Sporting group
Norwegian Lundehund
The six-toed puffin dog — a rare Arctic climber with astonishing flexibility.
Norwegian Lundehunds are small spitz dogs bred to hunt puffins on Norwegian sea cliffs. They have unique anatomy — six toes, closable ears and a remarkably flexible neck — and a distinctive, independent personality.
- Height
- 12–15 in30–38 cm
- Weight
- 20–30 lb9–14 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 years
- Size
- Small
- Group
- Non-Sporting
- Origin
- Lofoten Islands, Norway
Coat: Dense, rough double coat. Colours: Fallow to reddish brown with white, White with dark markings.
At a glance
Ratings describe typical dogs of the breed on a 1–5 scale. Individual dogs vary with lines, upbringing and training.
Temperament
Lundehunds are alert, playful and affectionate with their families. They are often reserved with strangers.
They are independent and can be stubborn, and many are hard to house-train. They are curious climbers and can be escape artists.
Living with a Norwegian Lundehund
Exercise
About an hour of daily activity with walks, climbing and games. Use a lead or very secure fencing.
Grooming
Brush weekly and more often during seasonal sheds. Check the extra toes and nails regularly.
Training
Independent and sensitive; patient, reward-based training works best. House-training can take a long time.
Kids & other pets
Good with considerate children and usually fine with other dogs they know.
Time alone
Tolerates moderate alone time but may bark or explore mischievously when bored.
Home fit
Can manage in an apartment with committed daily exercise; a house with outdoor space is easier.
Is a Norwegian Lundehund right for you?
Take the Breed Fit quiz to see how a Norwegian Lundehund matches your home, schedule and tolerance for shedding, barking and exercise — or find out which breed matches your personality with Dogsona.
Health
With good breeding and care, a Norwegian Lundehund typically lives 12–15 years. These are the conditions most associated with the breed — not a prediction for any individual dog.
Lundehund syndrome
A gastrointestinal disorder causing protein loss, diarrhoea and weight loss; diet management is often lifelong.
Limited genetic diversity
The breed descends from very few dogs, so responsible breeders track relatedness carefully.
Eye disease
Inherited eye conditions occur; eye exams are recommended.
Ask a breeder for
- Eye examination
- Patella evaluation
- Hip evaluation
Sources: OFA health testing guidance: Norwegian Lundehund; Norwegian Lundehund Association of America. This is general information, not veterinary advice — talk to your vet about your own dog.
Cost to own
After the first year, expect roughly $1,000–$2,000 a year for food, routine vet care, preventives, insurance and supplies (US estimate).
- Pet insurance for a puppy typically runs $30–$60 a month; premiums rise with age and breed risk.
History
For centuries Lundehunds climbed the cliffs of Norway’s Lofoten Islands to retrieve puffins and eggs from narrow crevices. When puffin hunting declined, the breed nearly vanished; by the 1960s only a handful remained.
All modern Lundehunds descend from a very small number of dogs, and breeders now work to manage the narrow gene pool. The AKC recognised the breed in 2011.
Did you know?
- Lundehunds have at least six toes on each foot.
- They can bend their head backwards to touch their spine.
- Their ears can fold shut to keep out dirt and water.
Library guides for Norwegian Lundehund owners
Exercise & Play
Dog Walking
Getting daily walks right for a Norwegian Lundehund.
Grooming
Nail Clipping
Every dog needs regular nail care.
New Dog Owners
How to find a reputable dog breeder
What to ask a Norwegian Lundehund breeder about health screening.
New Dog Owners
The real cost of a puppy: what to budget before you bring one home
Budget for the first year and beyond.
Similar breeds
Frequently asked questions
- Are Norwegian Lundehunds good family dogs?
- For patient, experienced owners, yes. They are affectionate but independent.
- Are Lundehunds rare?
- Extremely. There are only a few thousand worldwide.
- Do Lundehunds shed?
- Yes, moderately to heavily at times.