Norwegian Lundehund
Norský lundehund
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Key facts
| FCI group | 5. Spitz and primitive types |
|---|---|
| Country of origin | Norway |
| Category | Small |
| Height at withers | 32–38 cm |
| Weight | 6–7 kg |
Recognition features
- Small spitz with unique anatomy: extra functional toes on each foot
- Neck flexible enough to touch the back; ears can fold shut
- Red to fawn with black tips and always combined with white
Purpose
Norwegian puffin hunter on steep coastal rocks; today a rare companion.
History
An ancient breed used for hunting seabirds on the Norwegian coast, with descriptions of puffin-hunting dogs over 400 years old. Its anatomy let it climb near-vertical screes and enter narrow nesting burrows. The population dwindled but hunting traditions survived on the isolated island of Værøy, and dedicated breeding followed between the World Wars.
Coat
Dense and rough with soft undercoat and no flag on the tail; red to fawn with black tips always with white, or white with dark patches.
Similar breeds
- Norwegian Buhund · Compare
- Finnish Spitz · Compare
- Icelandic Sheepdog · Compare
- Swedish Vallhund · Compare
Learn to recognise this breed and many more
In the Dogtice quiz you practise breeds on photos and see the differences between look-alike breeds.
The information is indicative. Texts are based on available sources and may contain inaccuracies; for binding details (e.g. for breeding or shows) use the official breed standard. Report a photo or rights.