Pet Wiki

Norwegian Lundehund

Also called Norsk Lundehund, Norwegian Puffin Dog, Lundehund

A lively, alert little dog that is loyal and watchful with its family.

SizeSmall
Weight5 to 8 kg (11 to 18 lb)males 7 to 8 kg, females 5 to 6 kg12
Height30.5 to 38 cm (12 to 15 in)males 33 to 38 cm, females 30.5 to 35.5 cm13
CoatRough double coat
OriginNorway, from the island of Værøy in the Lofoten archipelago, where it hunted puffins on sea cliffs.12
GroupSpitz and Primitive types (FCI group 5)
Recognised breedShort profile
remarkably flexible and agile
alert and full of energy
loyal to its family
132

Personality what they are like

A lively, alert little dog that is loyal and watchful with its family. It can be reserved with strangers but is not unfriendly, and makes a good family companion when well socialised.132

Coat and looks how to spot one

rough double coat

A small, rectangular spitz with a dense, harsh outer coat and soft undercoat. Its body is built for climbing: at least six toes on each foot, extra pads, a very bendy neck and shoulders, and ears that can fold shut.13

Coloursred to fawn with whitefawn with black-tipped hairs and whitewhite with dark patches13

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Norwegian Lundehund. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

  • Brushingevery week
  • Bathevery 8 weeks
  • Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
  • Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
  • ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
  • Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
  • Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

High for its size. It needs plenty of daily exercise and enjoys climbing and exploring.2

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The weather-resistant double coat needs only regular brushing, more during seasonal shedding.13

Home where they are happiest

Adapts to family homes with daily outings; enjoys varied terrain where it can use its agility.2

Company who they like around

Bonds closely with its family and tends to get on with children when socialised early.2

The story where it all began

For more than 400 years these dogs climbed Norway's coastal cliffs to fetch puffins and eggs from narrow crevices, with written records going back to 1591. When nets replaced dogs for puffin hunting the breed dwindled until it survived only around the Lofoten village of Mostad. Dedicated breeders, notably the Christie family working with people on Værøy, rebuilt it from a handful of dogs.12

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    It has at least six toes on each front foot, with five touching the ground, and extra pads that help it grip rock.1

  2. 2

    Its neck is flexible enough for the head to bend back until it touches the spine.3

  3. 3

    Its front legs can stretch out to the sides at about 90 degrees, a bit like human arms.2

  4. 4

    It can close its ears to keep out dirt and water.1

  5. 5

    Lundehunds have been trialled at Tromsø airport to sniff out bird eggs and help prevent bird strikes.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name 'Lundehund' comes from the Norwegian words 'lunde' (puffin) and 'hund' (dog), reflecting its historical role in hunting puffins along the Norwegian coast.4

Name ideas for your new friend

LokiFjellPuffinKlippeStormVærøyNoriTassSkogBrisLundeFrost

A day in the life told by a Norwegian Lundehund

I wake up to the sound of waves crashing on the cliffs far below. My humans are still asleep, so I stretch each of my six toes and pad softly to the window. The morning sun paints the fjord gold. I love this view. Later, we hike up the rocky trail behind the house. I scramble over boulders, sniff every crevice, and climb a fallen tree just because I can. My humans laugh and call me a little mountain goat. At home, I curl up on the rug, watching the seabirds fly past. Life is good when you're small but brave.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard no. 265, Group 5 Spitz and primitive types, Section 2 Nordic Hunting Dogs; standard published 10.11.2011, country of origin Norway.1
AKC
Has an AKC standard, effective 1 July 2008.3

How many About 1,500 dogs worldwide, around 900 of them in Norway2

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Norwegian Lundehund, and at what times?

Feed your adult Norwegian Lundehund at least two meals a day, ideally at the same times each day. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. A consistent schedule helps their digestion and prevents hunger pangs.5

What should a Norwegian Lundehund eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for its age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always check with your vet for a tailored diet plan.65

How often should I bathe a Norwegian Lundehund?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty. Use a gentle dog shampoo and avoid over-bathing to protect its weather-resistant coat.7 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Norwegian Lundehund need brushing?

Brush your Norwegian Lundehund weekly to keep its double coat healthy, and increase brushing during seasonal shedding. This removes loose hair and prevents mats.13 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Norwegian Lundehund's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every three weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demo.7 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Norwegian Lundehund need?

This breed has high exercise needs for its size and enjoys daily walks, play, and climbing. Pet Wiki's plan includes daily walks and play to keep it happy and healthy.2 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Norwegian Lundehund's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth daily with dog-safe toothpaste, and check ears weekly for moisture or debris. Never push anything into the ear canal. Regular care prevents infections and dental issues.7 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Norwegian Lundehund live?

The lifespan varies, but many live into their early teens. Senior years usually start around age 10. Regular vet checkups help ensure a long, healthy life. Pet Wiki plan

Is a Norwegian Lundehund good with children and other pets?

Yes, when well socialised from an early age, this breed bonds closely with its family and tends to get on with children. It can be reserved with strangers but is not unfriendly.132

Can a Norwegian Lundehund be left alone?

This breed bonds closely with its family and may not enjoy long periods alone. It's best to provide company or a dog walker if you're away for many hours. Consult a good breeder for specific advice.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. FCI Standard N° 265 Norsk Lundehund fci.beused for recognition, height, weight, coat, colours, special features, history
  2. Wikipedia: Norwegian Lundehund en.wikipedia.orgused for other names, weight, history, population, fun facts
  3. AKC Official Standard of the Norwegian Lundehund images.akc.orgused for height, temperament, flexibility, colours
  4. en.wikipedia.org en.wikipedia.org
  5. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  7. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.