Norwegian Lundehund

Description:

The Norwegian Lundehund is considered to be one of the rarest species in the world. These dogs were bred in Norway for the purpose of hunting Atlantic puffins and their eggs. However, since this seabird came under the protection in the 19th century, Norwegian Lundehunds fell out of favor. As a result, after the World War II, there were only five representatives of this unique breed. Fortunately, its recovery started gradually but surely. The situation is no longer so tragic though. Nowadays, there are about 1,500 species all around the world. However, the Norwegian Lundehund is still extremely difficult to purchase.

Height: 12-15 inches  Weight: 20-30 pounds  Lifespan: 12-15 years

Characteristics:

This is a wonderful breed, distinguished by many unique features. For instance, the Norwegian Lundehund has six toes on each foot, so he can stretch his front legs to the side, just as humans do. Also, in order to protect themselves against water and dirt, Lundehunds are able to bend their head up to the shoulders while they’re swimming. All of these unusual abilities allow Norwegian Lundehunds to successfully hunt in most difficult terrain. Comparable Breeds: The Norwegian Elkhound and Norwegian Buhund.

Character:

The Norwegian Lundehund is a lively, friendly and playful breed, which is usually referred to as being primitive. This dog is very protective of his family and territory. The Lundehund is always alert and very suspicious of strangers, and he will bark to inform you of any danger or suspicious sounds. This breed gets along well with children and other dog breeds, provided that they grew up with him in the same house. The Norwegian Lundehund needs a job to do, otherwise he will feel bored dog and may start to spoil the surrounding objects. This is an amazing breed, always cheerful and affectionate. Therefore, Lundehunds usually make excellent companions. However, they are not suited for dog breeders with no sufficient experience.

Coat / Care:

The Norwegian Lundehund is covered with a two-layered coat. While the outer layer is short, dense and coarse, the undercoat is thick and soft. The neck, tail and rear side of the hind legs are decorated with thick and rich hair. This breed sheds seasonally and quite intensely. To remove excess hair, weekly cleaning and brushing are a must. Special attention is required during the shedding season. Because Norwegian Lundehunds are capable of self-cleaning, be sure to bathe your dog only if absolutely necessary.

Health Problems:

The Norwegian Lundehund is generally healthy dog breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to Gastro Enteropathy, Eye Disease, Patellar Luxation (PL) and Syndrome Lundehunda. The Norwegian Lundehund has a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years.

Weight / Height

The male Norwegian Lundehund dog breed’s height is around 13 – 15 inches and weighs around 20 and 30 pounds. Female Norwegian Lundehund dogs can reach a size from 12 – 14 inches and weighs between 20 and 30 pounds.

Training:

The Norwegian Lundehund can be quite stubborn and difficult to control, so he requires strict management. Hence, this breed of dog needs early socialization and general course of obedience. Norwegian Lundehunds are extremely difficult to learn basic rules concerning cleanliness in the house, so it is recommended to keep them in a special box at first. Too harsh teaching methods are useless. Education should be based on firmness, fairness and consistency.

Activity:

The Norwegian Lundehund is not suitable for apartment living. A dog of this breed prefers a farm or a large, securely fenced yard, where he will have enough space for running freely and all sorts of family activities.

Photo credit: SofiaERamirez /Deviantart