Working Dogs
Norwegian Lundehund
Reviewed to our editorial standards · Updated 2026-06-12
Size
Small
Life Span
10 to 12 years
Weight
13 to 16 pounds
Height
12 inches to 15 inches tall at the shoulder
Breed Group
Working Dogs
Adaptability
Friendliness
Trainability
Energy
Health
Intelligence
Norwegian Lundehund — Key Facts
About the Norwegian Lundehund
The Norwegian Lundehund is a small working dog known for being deeply loving with its family and outgoing and sociable. With a highly intelligent mind, better suited to homes with outdoor space, the Norwegian Lundehund is best matched with experienced owners. Typically standing 12 inches to 15 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing 13 to 16 pounds, this breed has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, making it a devoted companion for the right family.
Originally classified within the Working Dogs group, the Norwegian Lundehund brings a distinct combination of traits that sets it apart. The Norwegian Lundehund is a high-energy breed that thrives with plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation. Deeply affectionate, the Norwegian Lundehund loves being close to its people and forms strong bonds with every member of the household.
Temperament
The Norwegian Lundehund has a famously warm and sociable temperament that makes it responsive to its environment without being overly sensitive. The Norwegian Lundehund is famously gentle and patient with children of all ages, making it a wonderful family dog. The Norwegian Lundehund tends to love the company of other dogs and typically does well in multi-pet households.
Friendly and open with new people, the Norwegian Lundehund rarely meets a stranger it doesn't like. This breed tends to be quiet and won't alert you to every passing noise. The Norwegian Lundehund has a strong urge to explore, so a well-fenced yard and reliable recall training are essential. Prey drive is low, making off-lead exercise relatively safe in open areas.
Health & Lifespan
With a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, the Norwegian Lundehund is a medium-lived breed. Overall a hardy breed, the Norwegian Lundehund benefits from routine vet check-ups and preventive care.
Common health areas to discuss with your vet include joint health (hip and elbow dysplasia), dental hygiene, eye health, and routine parasite prevention including flea, tick, and heartworm. The Norwegian Lundehund has a moderate tendency to gain weight — monitor portion sizes and avoid too many treats. Annual wellness bloodwork — including a complete blood count and biochemistry panel — is recommended from middle age onward to catch conditions like hypothyroidism, kidney disease, and diabetes early. Pet insurance is strongly recommended from puppyhood.
Is this breed right for you?
The Norwegian Lundehund is best suited to experienced dog owners who can provide an active lifestyle with plenty of outdoor time. A home with outdoor space is strongly preferred.
The Norwegian Lundehund handles alone time well and is less likely to develop separation anxiety. This breed prefers warmer climates and should be protected from extreme cold. The Norwegian Lundehund handles warm weather reasonably well with standard precautions.
In summary, the Norwegian Lundehund is a sociable and loving working dogs that fits well into a variety of households. Do thorough research, meet the breed in person if possible, and connect with a reputable breeder or rescue before bringing a Norwegian Lundehund home.
Helpful Tools
Care Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Norwegian Lundehund good with kids?
The Norwegian Lundehund is known for being patient and gentle with children of all ages, making it a popular family choice.
How much exercise does a Norwegian Lundehund need?
The Norwegian Lundehund is a high-energy breed that needs at least 1–2 hours of vigorous exercise every day. Activities like fetch, hiking, and agility are ideal.
Does the Norwegian Lundehund shed a lot?
Yes, the Norwegian Lundehund is a heavy shedder. Daily brushing, regular vacuuming, and seasonal grooming appointments are part of owning this breed.
Own a Norwegian Lundehund?
Track health records, set care reminders, and connect with other Norwegian Lundehund owners in Hushku.