Norwegian Lundehund
Also known as Norsk Lundehund · Chien Norvegien de Macareux · Norwegischer Lundehund · Lundehund Noruego
Norway, Nordic Hunting Dogs
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 32–38 cm
- Weight
- 6–9 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Lively
- Alert
- Agile
- Affectionate
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Norwegian Lundehund
The Norwegian Lundehund is a small spitz from Norway's coast, historically used to hunt puffins on cliffs. It has unusual features, including extra toes, very flexible joints and ears that can fold closed. It has a dense coat in reddish brown with white markings. It is rare and has a small gene pool.
Temperament
Lively, alert and affectionate with family, it can be reserved with strangers. It may bark and dig, and can be sensitive and independent in training.
Exercise
Needs about an hour of daily exercise, including play and exploring. It enjoys climbing.
Grooming
The dense coat needs brushing a couple of times weekly, more during moult.
Care & wellbeing
The Norwegian Lundehund, bred to climb sea cliffs after puffins, has extra toes and unusually flexible shoulders and neck. Keep its feet dry and tidy and its weight lean. Digestive upsets are known in the breed, so choose its food carefully and avoid sudden changes.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 7.5 kg adult- Water
- 300 ml–450 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 510 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Norwegian Lundehund
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A rare spitz from the Norwegian island of Vaeroy, traditionally used to hunt puffins on steep cliffs. It has extra toes and unusual joint flexibility, helping it climb. Numbers fell sharply and conservation efforts have been needed.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Lundehund syndrome (digestive disorder)
- Hip dysplasia
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Gastrointestinal screening
- Hip scores
Not every Norwegian Lundehund is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–14 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Norwegian Lundehund right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Norwegian Lundehund get?
Adult Norwegian Lundehunds typically stand about 32–38 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 6–9 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Norwegian Lundehunds live?
Typically 12–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Norwegian Lundehund need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Norwegian Lundehund need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Norwegian Lundehunds easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Norwegian Lundehunds shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Norwegian Lundehunds good with children?
They're often better suited to adults or older, calm children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Norwegian Lundehund live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Norwegian Lundehunds have?
The breed can be prone to lundehund syndrome (digestive disorder), hip dysplasia. Not every Norwegian Lundehund is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Norway
- Type
- Nordic Hunting Dogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1965