The Norwegian Lundehund (also known as the Norwegian Puffin Dog or Puffin Hound) originated in Norway and was used to hunt the Puffin (a small aquatic bird). Puffin birds nest high on the cliffs of the jagged coastline in the Loefotens of Norway. The dogs were able to scale these cliffs and navigate the caves where Puffins may dwell. A good Puffin hunter was as valuable as cattle to the farmer. When Puffin hunting became illegal, the breed started to decline in numbers and with a distemper outbreak in Norway, there were only five dogs left. At the end of World War II and through the dedication of concerned Norwegian fanciers, the breed was saved from extinction.
Today, it is estimated that the population of Lundehunds worldwide is approximately 2,000. The majority of which are in Norway and Finland with approximately 300 in the U.S.
Lundehunds are truly unique and distinctive with several characteristics setting them apart from other breeds:
- They have at least six toes on each foot.
- Their limbs can extend out to 90 degrees from their bodies.
- Because of an extra vertabrae in their necks, they are able to bend their head backwards over the shoulders so that the forehead touches the back.
- They have the ability to close their ears when they get wet.
For additional information about these amazing characteristics, read The Intriguing Lundehund by Inger Kristiansen, 1968 and re-published on the Norwegian Lundehund Club of America's website.
The Lundehund is energetic, intelligent, affectionate, gentle, loyal, playful, observant and easygoing. He is a wonderful devoted companion with a great disposition and never aggressive toward people or other dogs. His coat is short and can be from a reddish-brown to fallow with black hair tips; black; gray; or white. He may also have white markings.
TOP
Health Issues:
If you are considering the adoption of a Norwegian Lundehund puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Health concerns in the Lundehund breed include a disease known as Intestenial Lymphangiectasia (IL), which is now known as Lundehund Syndrome (LS). It can be controlled with a high protein and low fat diet.
Additional Health Resources:
TOP
Breed Standards:
TOP
Grooming Information:
- Grooming — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes tips, articles and information covering all aspects of dog grooming along with a listing of Groomers from across Canada.
TOP
Training Resources:
- Training — For information on training your Norwegian Lundehund, see this growing section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
TOP
Additional Information:
- Clubs, Sports & Activities — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes information on several dog sports and activities as well as listings of non-breed specific clubs from across Canada. (Note: For breed specific clubs, see the Breed Clubs section.)
- Working Dogs — Dedicated to the working dog. This section includes tributes, information on various dog jobs, and listings of organizations from across Canada.
