Norwegian Lundehund

Norwegian Lundehunds typically live 12 to 15 years, though the breed carries a significant predisposition to Lundehund syndrome, a serious intestinal disorder affecting protein absorption. This is the breed's most defining health concern and requires careful dietary management throughout life. Working closely with a vet familiar with the breed is genuinely important. Otherwise, their unique extra toes and flexible joints cause no functional problems.

That dense double coat needs brushing two to three times a week to manage shedding. Shedding increases heavily during seasonal coat blows, requiring daily brushing then. Bathe only when needed. Nail trims need extra attention given their unique six-toed feet.

Bred for climbing steep cliffs to hunt puffins, Norwegian Lundehunds need close to an hour of activity daily. Walks and active play suit their agile, energetic nature well. They have a remarkably flexible body and excellent climbing ability unlike most breeds. Mental stimulation through games keeps their clever mind satisfied.

Intelligent but independent, Norwegian Lundehunds can be a bit of a training challenge. Positive reinforcement and patience work best. Early socialization helps round out their naturally alert, sometimes reserved temperament. This breed genuinely enjoys climbing and exploring activities that engage their unique physical abilities.

Given their predisposition to Lundehund syndrome, this breed needs a carefully managed diet developed alongside your vet, often involving smaller, more frequent meals and specific protein sources. Two to three measured meals daily generally work better than large feedings for this breed. Watch closely for any signs of digestive distress. Fresh water should always be available.

A truly unique breed, the Norwegian Lundehund developed on remote Norwegian islands specifically to hunt puffins by climbing into narrow, steep cliffside burrows. Their extraordinary physical adaptations — six toes per foot, extreme flexibility, and ears that fold shut — evolved to suit this unusual job. The breed nearly went extinct twice in the 1900s, surviving through dedicated preservation from very small founding populations. Today it remains one of the rarest and most distinctive dog breeds in the world.