Norwegian lundehund

Overall description of the breed

The history of the Lundehund, or Norwegian Puffin Dog, is very ancient, as its name suggests, it originates from Norway, and some breed specialists trace its presence back to the 16th century. According to legend, they already accompanied the Vikings during their hunting sessions along the icy Norwegian coasts.

Its name is composed of two parts: "Lunde" refers to its favorite prey, the puffin, a large-beaked bird residing on several islands off the coast of Norway, and "Hund" means the word dog. It is an extremely rare breed, with its worldwide population estimated at less than 2000 individuals, half of which are in Norway and a quarter in the United States.

It came close to extinction during World War II, with several outbreaks of distemper and armed conflicts threatening to decimate the global population entirely. Thanks to the efforts of Mr. and Mrs. Christie in the early 1940s, this couple of English Setter breeders managed to preserve the breed by breeding a few dozen individuals, preserved by the residents and hunters of Mastad on the rugged island of Vaeroy.

The breed was recognized by the Norwegian Kennel Club in 1943, followed by the International Cynological Federation on October 6, 1965, the UKC (United Kennel Club) in 1995, and the AKC (American Kennel Club) in 2008. The official breed club opened its doors in the United States in 1987, the Norwegian Lundehund Association of America.

The Norwegian Lundehund is one of the small-sized dogs, with a robust build. It is an extremely lively and energetic animal. It belongs to group number 5 of Spitz-type and primitive-type dogs; its body is longer than it is tall, so it fits into a rectangle, its gait is light, supple, but determined.

It has good adaptability on all terrains, in all weather conditions. It is willing and solidly built, with good musculature. Its limbs are thick and vigorous. It is sometimes said to have a fox-like appearance, with its voluminous neck, coupled with an elongated head, a pointed muzzle, and a discreetly domed skull. Its backline is straight and wide, and it should be stocky overall, but not excessively so, with a chest of good length, quite deep, and a well-sprung belly.

Its tail is of medium size, abundant in hair, falling onto its back in the form of a ring. Its coat is medium-length, with a hard, tight, and compact texture, providing it with a thick fur that covers its entire body, coupled with a soft and abundant undercoat. The colors allowed by the standard are fawn and red, with white markings.

The Norwegian Puffin Dog is mainly used as a hunting dog in a natural environment, but it is also suitable for a family and affectionate environment. It is a jovial, playful companion and will greatly enjoy playful games or sporting activities surrounded by loved ones.

It is rather wary of strangers, requiring some time to build trust, but once introductions are made, it proves to be very agreeable. It is sociable by nature, especially with its fellow canines, although its predatory instinct remains excessively developed; it is advisable to accustom it to small animals from an early age to minimize its hunting drive.

The Lundehund needs to expend its energy daily, which is truly vital for its physical and psychological well-being. It requires open spaces and long walks with its owners to feel completely fulfilled. Regular human contact is essential for it, and it does not appreciate solitude or urban life. If you decide to adopt a Norwegian Lundehund, you will need to make yourself available for it. Its loyal and affectionate character will completely charm you! With it, you will enter into a strong and close friendship.

As adults, males generally measure between 35 cm and 38 cm (13.5" to 15") at the withers, while females measure between 32 cm and 35 cm (12.5" to 13.5"), and their weight ranges from 5 to 8 kg (11 to 17.5 lbs).