Longevity
Life expectancy
With good living conditions, an appropriate diet and serious medical follow-up, this breed generally lives between 10 and 12 years. Longevity depends in part on the prevention of digestive disorders and on maintaining a proper body condition throughout life.
Build
A robust breed?
The Norwegian Lundehund shows an overall robustness that is commendable for a rare breed. Its dense coat protects it effectively from cold and bad weather, but its hardiness does not eliminate the need for serious selection or careful monitoring, notably on the digestive level.
Watch points
What to watch for
The breed requires particular attention to unusual digestive signs, such as loss of condition, abnormal stools or persistent food sensitivity. It is also prudent to monitor the musculoskeletal system and to favor breeding dogs seriously monitored by conscientious breeders.
Patellar luxation : This orthopedic condition can cause locomotor discomfort, intermittent lameness, or knee instability depending on its severity.
Exudative enteropathy : This digestive disease can cause poor nutrient absorption, weight loss, diarrhea, and reduced fitness.
Intestinal lymphangiectasia : This condition affecting the intestinal lymphatic vessels promotes chronic digestive disorders and requires appropriate veterinary care.
Chronic inflammatory bowel diseases : Some individuals may show lasting digestive sensitivity requiring a thorough diagnosis and a well-tolerated diet.
Climate
Cold and heat tolerance
This small Spitz tolerates cold and humidity well thanks to its protective undercoat, but it is clearly less comfortable during hot periods. In summer, it is advisable to limit exertion to the cooler hours, to ensure access to shade, and to make sure it stays well hydrated.
Weight
Tendency to gain weight
Maintaining a stable weight is important to limit strain on the joints and preserve its natural ease. A measured ration, adjusted to its actual activity, combined with regular outings, helps prevent excess weight.
Daily life
Good habits to keep it healthy
- Schedule regular veterinary check-ups, even in the absence of symptoms.
- Consult promptly in case of chronic diarrhea, weight loss or loss of appetite.
- Maintain a stable weight to limit joint strain.
- Adjust exertion and protect the dog during periods of high heat.
Vaccination
Norwegian Lundehund vaccines: vaccination schedule
Which vaccines for a Norwegian Lundehund? Like all cats, the Norwegian Lundehund receives essential vaccines from 8 weeks old: Typhus (panleukopenia) and Coryza. The kitten primary vaccination for Norwegian Lundehund is given in several injections 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year, even if it lives in an apartment. Depending on its lifestyle (outdoor access, multi-cat household, shows, travel), your veterinarian may complete the protocol with vaccines against Feline leukemia (FeLV), Rabies and Chlamydiosis.
| Vaccine | Primary series | First booster | Then | Who for? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Typhus (panleukopenia)Core Feline panleukopenia (cat parvovirus) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
CoryzaCore Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
Feline leukemia (FeLV)Lifestyle-based Feline leukemia virus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Outdoor cats, cats living in a group or in a cattery |
RabiesLifestyle-based Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, cat shows and most boarding kennels |
ChlamydiosisLifestyle-based Chlamydia felis (contagious conjunctivitis) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Cats living in groups, catteries, show cats |
Adult Norwegian Lundehund vaccine boosters are annual for cat flu and leukemia if it goes outdoors; for panleukopenia, a booster every three years is often sufficient after the first booster. Your veterinarian will adjust the schedule to your cat’s lifestyle.
Which boosters for your Norwegian Lundehund?
Enter your companion’s age: we list the vaccines to do now and the next boosters.
Adopting well
Adopting a healthy Norwegian Lundehund
An orthopedic examination focused on the knees, careful observation of digestion, and routine veterinary follow-up constitute a relevant basis. In the event of an affected line or suggestive symptoms, the veterinarian may further investigate digestive issues.
This information is provided for guidance only and does not replace a veterinarian’s advice. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, consult a professional.
