The birds were harvested … This dog is flexible and can bend the head backward so the top of the head touches the back. Founded in 1884, the AKC is the recognized and trusted expert in breed, health, and training information for dogs. The nails should be trimmed often if not worn down naturally, as overly long nails can cause the dog discomfort and problems walking and running. [4] There are indications that for the Lundehund to go on a low fat and higher protein diet has very positive effects on the health with respect to digestive problems. To enable the dog to climb, descend, and brake on these cliffs, unique structural characteristics have evolved and must be present as they define this breed: a minimum of six toes on each foot and elongated rear foot pads; an elastic neck that allows the head to bend backward to touch the spine, letting the dog turn around in narrow puffin bird caves; and shoulders flexible enough to allow the front legs to extend flat to the side in order to hug the cliffs. The temperament is alert but not expected to be outgoing toward strangers. With six toes on each foot—all of them double- or triple-jointed—and an amazing range of motion, this agile dog breed was used to scale cliffs and rob puffin nests of their eggs.Along with the Norwegian Lundehund’s acrobatic talents, they have a knack for barking and digging, making them a good choice only if you’re prepared to give them lots of supervision and training. The Norwegian Lundehund hails from the rocky island of Vaeroy, Norway. Their pricked, upright ears can be folded shut to form a near-tight seal by folding forward or backward. Dogs of this breed are able to bend their head backwards along their own spine and turn their forelegs to the side at a 90-degree horizontal angle to their body, much like human arms. The AKC has grouped all of the breeds that it registers into seven categories, or groups, roughly based on function and heritage. [7] It made its introductory premier at a major US event at the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship in Long Beach, California, on December 13 and 14, 2008. Some scientific research indicates that they may have been around since before the last Ice age, and they are the only dog breed created to hunt puffins and their eggs! The Norwegian Lundehund has been an important part of the livelihood along the Norwegian coast The dog retrieved live puffins from nests located in narrow passages in cliffs and screes. The Lundehund is presented naturally with no trimming. But a closer look reveals several unique traits. To enable its ability to hunt in small spaces, the Norwegian Lundehund also has a very flexible neck that can bend backwards to the spine, as well as flexible shoulder structure and ears that close both forwards and backwards. Want to connect with other people who love the same breed as much as you do? Also known as the Norwegian Puffin Dog, the Lundehund is among the world's rarest of dogs. Healthy You, Healthy Dog, Healthy New Year! Recommended Health Test from the National Breed Club: For centuries Lundehunds were bred on Vaeroy, a remote and rocky island off the Norwegian coast. The Lundehund has six toes. The Norwegian Lundehund (Lundie) is an agile breed with some unique characteristics. The Norwegian Lundehund has four toes that point forward and two that point inward. Islanders depended on pickled puffin meat to sustain them through long Arctic winters, and the strong, flexible Lundehund was the only way to reach them. 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