A full-size Norwegian Lundehund is a small-sized dog. These hardy but little dogs measure about 12 to 15 inches at the shoulder and weigh 13 to 18 pounds, with females on the smaller end of this range. This compact size is largely a result of their historical role as puffin hunters on the rugged cliffs of Norway, where their smaller frame allowed them to navigate narrow crevices and steep, uneven terrain while chasing puffins into burrows.

Genetics plays a primary role in determining their adult size, as does proper nutrition during their puppy stage, which supports healthy bone growth and muscle development. A well-balanced diet and moderate exercise help ensure they grow to their optimal weight and condition.

Yes, Norwegian Lundehunds shed a considerable amount. They have a soft undercoat and a rough outer coat, which shed throughout the year, with increased periods of shedding in the spring and fall. Daily brushing with a firm bristle brush can help remove excess hair and cut down on shedding, but you should still expect to find tufts of hair on the carpet and your clothes.

Norwegian Lundehunds typically live between 12 and 15 years. Lundehunds have a similar lifespan compared to closely related breeds, such as the Norwegian Elkhound (12 to 15 years) and the Finnish Spitz (13 to 15 years). 

Factors that influence their longevity include genetics, regular veterinary care, proper nutrition, and exercise. Genetics play a crucial role in a Norwegian Lundehund as inherited conditions can impact their lifespan, while the longevity of their ancestors can also affect how long they live.

Additionally, veterinary care ensures that any potential health issues are caught early, allowing for prompt treatment and prevention of more serious complications. Proper nutrition, particularly diets that support digestive health, and regular exercise, keeps them at a healthy weight and helps maintain their overall well-being, supporting a longer life.

Norwegian Lundehunds stop growing around nine months old. These small pups typically reach their full height by about six months, and then they will continue to fill out and build muscle mass until they reach nine months of age. Once your Norwegian Lundehund pal completes most of their rapid growth around the six-month mark, you can begin transitioning them to adult food. It’s best to make this switch over the course of a week to avoid any gastrointestinal upset.

Norwegian Lundehunds have a distinct, somewhat fox-like appearance and a compact build. They typically have a thick, soft undercoat and a longer, coarser topcoat. Their triangular, upright ears give them an alert look.

What makes Norwegian Lundehunds truly unique are their physical adaptations for hunting puffins on cliffs. They have six toes on each foot, giving them exceptional balance and grip on uneven surfaces. Additionally, they have flexible shoulder joints and can bend their head backward to touch their spine, helping them maneuver in tight spaces. Their ears can also close to block out debris, another adaptation for working in rough environments. These characteristics give them a one-of-a-kind look and incredible agility.

Norwegian Lundehunds come in a variety of colors, most commonly reddish-brown, fallow, white, or tan. Their coat is often layered, with darker tips on their fur, giving a slight gradient effect. The tips of their fur can range from black to a darker shade of their base color, adding a distinct outline to their overall look.

White markings are usually found on their chest, legs, and face. Some Norwegian Lundehunds may also have a darker mask, especially when they’re younger, though this can fade over time.

Yes, Norwegian Lundehunds can be good with cats, especially those raised alongside their feline counterparts from a young age. While originally bred to hunt, most Norwegian Lundehudns don’t have a strong prey drive towards small animals in general, and they can often coexist quite well with household cats. 

To properly introduce a Norwegian Lundehund and a cat, it’s important to take things slowly and start with scent introductions. Let them get used to each other’s scent by swapping bedding or toys between the two. After that, allow them to see each other from a distance. Gradually increase their time together, always supervising closely, and reward calm and friendly behavior with treats and praise. 

Patience is key, and allowing both the cat and the Norwegian Lundehund to move at a comfortable pace will help ensure a positive and peaceful relationship.

Yes, Norwegian Lundehunds are active dogs. Since they are no longer hunting puffins in Arctic climates, they need alternative outlets for their boundless energy. They make ideal running or hiking partners and may enjoy agility, rally, hunting, tracking, retrieving, and other dog sports. Daily activity is essential for keeping Norwegian Lundehunds healthy, happy, and enriched.

Yes, Norwegian Lundehunds are loyal and bond strongly with their families. They thrive in homes where they are part of the family and can become restless, anxious, and destructive if left alone for long periods every day.

Their loyalty also means they may be a bit reserved or cautious around strangers, preferring the comfort and security of those they know well. However, with proper socialization during puppyhood, they can be accepting of new people and environments while maintaining their strong attachment to their family.

No, Norwegian Lundehunds don’t tend to bark much, but like many dogs, they may bark if they’re bored, anxious, or not properly socialized. 

Early socialization is key to helping them feel comfortable in different environments, which can reduce stress-related barking. Ensuring they get plenty of daily enrichment, such as puzzle toys and scent games, helps keep their minds engaged, while exercise supports their physical and emotional well-being. 

Companionship is also important for Norwegian Lundehunds, as they can become vocal if they feel lonely or neglected. Providing them with opportunities for restorative rest is also crucial; a well-rested dog is less likely to bark excessively from being overtired or over-stimulated.

Yes, most Norwegian Lundehunds are good family dogs. Families looking for a compact, active companion who can commit to socialization, enrichment, and positive reinforcement training will love the Norwegian Lundehund. 

Norwegian Lundehunds can be playful, affectionate, and good with children. Of course, as with all dogs, it is recommended that you supervise interactions between young children and dogs to keep both the child and pup safe.

Yes, Norwegian Lundehunds can be relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement and relationship-based training. This approach emphasizes building a strong bond with your dog while encouraging desired behaviors through rewards and play. Incorporating games like fetch or tug-of-war keeps training fun and engaging, while treats help reinforce cues.

By combining physical activity with learning and making sessions enjoyable, pet parents can foster a cooperative relationship that encourages their Norwegian Lundehund to thrive. However, keep in mind that training any dog takes substantial time and effort, regardless of breed.

Norwegian Lundehunds are from Norway, specifically from remote coastal areas like the Lofoten Islands. They are an ancient breed, with origins tracing back to at least the 16th century, making them one of Norway’s treasured dog breeds.

Norwegian Lundehunds were originally bred to hunt puffins along the steep cliffs of Norway, using their extra toes and flexible joints to reach birds in tight spaces. Today, they’re more commonly kept as companion dogs, appreciated for their charming personalities and unique appearance.

Yes. The Norwegian Lundehund is a fairly healthy breed, although they are particularly prone to gastrointestinal and eye-related health conditions. Here are some of the health problems that may affect your Norwegian Lundehund:

• Lundehund gastroenteropathy (LGE): Norwegian Lundehunds are prone to developing a group of gastrointestinal disorders that can fall under the collective term “Lundehund Gastroenteropathy.” These disorders lead to chronic vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and malabsorption of nutrients. Affected dogs may also experience bacterial overgrowth in the intestines, which can exacerbate symptoms like bloating and discomfort.

• Small bacterial overgrowth (SBO): This condition occurs when there is an abnormal increase of bacteria in the small intestine, leading to malabsorption, bloating, abdominal discomfort, and symptoms of gastrointestinal distress such as vomiting and diarrhea.

• Patellar luxation: This orthopedic condition involves the dislocation of the kneecap, which can result in limping, chronic pain, and difficulty in movement. Over time, it may lead to arthritis in the affected joint.

• Cataracts: Cataracts cause clouding of the lens in the eye, leading to impaired vision. Symptoms include cloudy eyes, difficulty seeing in bright light or at night, and potential blindness if not treated.

• Primary lens luxation: This occurs when the lens of the eye dislocates from its normal position, resulting in acute eye pain, vision loss, and potentially secondary glaucoma due to increased pressure in the eye.

• Glaucoma: This serious condition is characterized by increased pressure within the eyeball, which can damage the optic nerve. Symptoms may include redness in the eye, bulging of the eyeball, and vision loss, which can lead to blindness if untreated.

Being aware of these conditions and monitoring your pup for signs and symptoms, routine vet checks, screenings, preventative care, early interventions, and disease management can all help your Norwegian Lundehund stay healthy and happy for as long as possible.

No, Norwegian Lundehunds are not hypoallergenic. Like most dogs, they shed dander (tiny skin flakes) and produce proteins in their saliva and urine that can trigger allergies in affected individuals.

Regular grooming, including brushing their coat to reduce loose hair and dander, can make a difference in managing allergens in the home. Bathing them every few weeks also helps to reduce the spread of allergens. Additionally, vacuuming your home often, using an air purifier, and keeping certain areas of the house (like bedrooms) pet-free zones can help minimize allergen buildup. Washing bedding and any fabric-covered furniture routinely can also cut down on the spread of allergens.