Norwegian Lundehund dogs are unique in regards to their appearance.
They are a rectangular Spitz type.
They stand 12 to 15 inches tall.
They typically weigh between 13 and 20 pounds.
These small dogs have six toes and two dew claws.
These dogs have joints located in the nape of the neck area.
They have ears that stand straight up (erect) and are quite flexible.
This small dog has a thick coat that can be found in the following colors:
reddish-brown with black markings
black with all white markings
grey with all white markings
Temperament
This breed is quite lovable.
They are mild-mannered and enjoy the company of their owners and immediate families.
These small dogs are also playful and intelligent.
Due to their physical characteristics (mentioned above), these small dogs are athletic and known for being good hunters.
They are good with children and other dogs. However, be wary of leaving them alone with other small house hold pets.
These small dogs may be shy around strangers, but they will not be aggressive.
Living Standards
Due to their energetic personality, these dogs will do best in a home with a small to medium size yard.
Be sure to monitor this small dog when he/she is outside. They tend to be wonderful climbers and jumpers.
If you do live in an apartment, be sure to exercise this dog on a daily basis.
Exercise
These dogs require a daily long distance walk.
They should also be given a chance to run in a safe confined area.
These dogs love to play so be sure to provide them with dog toys, tennis balls, and bones to chew.
Litter Size
This breed will typically have between 2 and 4 pups per litter.
Health and Life Expectancy
Unfortunately, this breed suffers from a gastrointestinal disorder that causes bacterial overgrowth and abnormal protein loss in the small intestines. This disease is known as Lundehund Syndrome.
Due to the Lundehund Syndrome, it is difficult to know how long these small dogs can actually live. An estimated average is in the vicinity of 12 years.
Trainability and Obedience
This is an intelligent breed and they have the ability to learn rather quickly.
These small dogs can be somewhat stubborn and will not always listen to your command. This is primarily due to their hunting and exploring nature (they easily get side tract).
Be patient when training this dog. Rewarding them is a good method of training.
These small dogs may also be difficult to housebreak. In order to resolve this problem, crate training may be necessary.
Due to their athletic ability, this breed can be taught agility type tricks as well.
For the best results, begin training these dogs when they are pups.
Remember that any small dog breed can develop small dog syndrome if not properly trained.
Grooming
This breed is not difficult to groom.
Simply brush this small dog on a regular basis (using a soft bristle brush).
Bathe them when necessary.
These dogs have the tendency to shed quite a bit.
History
The Norwegian Lundehund originated in Norway during the 16th century.
These small dogs were used to hunt Puffins (sea birds). The term “lunde” mean puffin in Norwegian.
During the 1800s, hunting Puffins became illegal and the Norwegian Lundehund began to decline in numbers to the point of near extinction.
As of 1963, there was only six Norwegian Lundehunds in existence.
This small breed was slowly rebuilt. Today however, Norwegian Lundehunds are still quite rare.
