Norwegian Lundehund Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the Norwegian Lundehund
The Norwegian Lundehund is a small, uniquely built spitz developed on remote Norwegian islands to scale sheer cliffs and extract puffins from deep rock crevices. Its extraordinary anatomy sets it apart: at least six toes on each foot, remarkably flexible shoulders that let the front legs extend sideways, a neck that bends back to touch the spine, and ears that fold shut. Agile, alert and light-footed, the Lundehund is playful and affectionate with family but can be reserved and cautious with strangers. It is clever yet independent and notoriously tricky to housetrain. This rare breed also carries a serious digestive vulnerability owners must manage.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
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Browse all puppiesWhere this breed shines
- Uniquely agile with extraordinary flexibility
- Playful and affectionate with its family
- Compact, adaptable size
- Low-maintenance weather-resistant coat
Things to consider
- Prone to a serious digestive disorder (Lundehund syndrome)
- Notoriously difficult to housetrain
- Reserved and wary with strangers
- Very small gene pool and limited availability
History
The Norwegian Lundehund is an ancient breed from the islands of northern Norway, where its unusual flexibility and extra toes were prized for hunting puffins along steep cliffs. When puffin hunting was banned and taxed, and a distemper outbreak struck, the breed nearly went extinct, dwindling to a handful of dogs by the mid-20th century before careful recovery efforts. It is recognized by the FCI and the AKC's Non-Sporting Group.
Temperament
Lundehunds are energetic, curious and affectionate with their families, but often wary and reserved toward strangers. They are intelligent yet independent and can be stubborn, with housetraining a common challenge. Their alert, agile nature and love of climbing reflect their cliff-hunting past.
Questions to ask a Norwegian Lundehund breeder
- How do you manage and screen for Lundehund gastroenteropathy?
- What is the coefficient of inbreeding in this litter?
- Are the parents on a monitored digestive-health diet?
- How are puppies socialized to reduce shyness?
Health considerations to discuss
Lundehund syndrome (intestinal lymphangiectasia). A serious protein-losing digestive disorder common to the breed requiring lifelong management.
Extremely limited gene pool. The breed rebuilt from very few dogs, so inbreeding-related issues are a real concern.
Digestive sensitivity. Diet must be carefully managed; discuss feeding protocols with the breeder.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: American Kennel Club - Norwegian Lundehund · Federation Cynologique Internationale — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Norwegian Lundehund litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Norwegian Lundehund puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Norwegian Lundehund listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How can I tell if a Norwegian Lundehund breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.