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Norwegian Lundehund
Non-Sporting breed from Norway
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Norwegian Lundehund
The Norwegian Lundehund is a small, agile spitz-type breed from Norway, known for its unique anatomical features including six functional toes per foot and extraordinary flexibility. These traits were specifically adapted for hunting puffins on steep, rocky cliffs. The breed is alert, energetic, loyal, and intelligent. It is classified as a medium-sized dog, with estimated adult weight of 9–14 kg and height of 33–38 cm for both sexes. Lifespan is estimated at 12–15 years. The breed's energy level is high (score 4 out of 5), while trainability is moderate (score 3). Grooming needs are low (score 2), and shedding is moderate (score 3). Suitability with children and other dogs is moderate (score 3 each), and it can adapt to apartment living (score 3). Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Norwegian Lundehund at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupNon-Sporting
OriginNorway
Lifespan12–15 years
Male weight9–14 kilogram
Female weight9–14 kilogram
Male height33–38 centimetre
Female height33–38 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Norwegian Lundehund is an ancient breed from the remote Lofoten Islands of Norway. It was developed specifically for hunting puffins on steep, rocky cliffs, and its unique anatomical traits—such as six functional toes per foot and extraordinary flexibility—allowed it to navigate treacherous terrain and access bird nests. The breed nearly became extinct after World War II but was saved through dedicated breeding programs. It is now recognized by the AKC and FCI, though recognition status varies by registry. The breed's history is closely tied to its working purpose, but no specific dates or health claims are available from the supplied facts.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
9–14 kilogramAdult weight33–38 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesDoubleCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Alertenergeticloyalintelligent
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Norwegian Lundehund-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Norwegian Lundehund puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight9–14 kilogramAdult female weight9–14 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Norwegian Lundehund?
The Norwegian Lundehund is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult weight is 9–14 kg for both males and females, and estimated adult height is 33–38 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12–15 years. These are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the temperament of a Norwegian Lundehund?
The breed is described as alert, energetic, loyal, and intelligent. However, individual dogs may vary, and not every dog will display all these traits consistently.
How much exercise does a Norwegian Lundehund need?
The breed has a high energy level (score 4 out of 5), indicating a need for regular exercise. However, specific exercise requirements are not provided in the facts.
What are the grooming needs of a Norwegian Lundehund?
Grooming needs are low (score 2 out of 5), and shedding is moderate (score 3). The breed has a double coat, but no specific grooming routine is detailed.
Is the Norwegian Lundehund good for families or apartment living?
Suitability with children is moderate (score 3), and compatibility with other dogs is also moderate (score 3). Apartment suitability is moderate (score 3). These scores suggest it can adapt, but individual experiences may differ.
Where does the Norwegian Lundehund originate from?
The breed originates from Norway, specifically the remote Lofoten Islands. It was developed for hunting puffins on steep cliffs.
Is the Norwegian Lundehund recognized by major kennel clubs?
Recognition status varies by registry. The breed is recognized by the AKC and FCI, but not all registries may recognize it.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.