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.
Constitution
Is this 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.
Things to watch for
What to look out 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
Tolerance to cold and heat
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
Prone to weight gain
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.
Everyday care
Good habits to keep your pet 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 vaccinations: schedule
Which vaccines does a Norwegian Lundehund need? Like all dogs, Norwegian Lundehunds should receive their core vaccines from 8 weeks of age: CHPPi (core vaccine) and Leptospirosis. Puppies receive their initial Norwegian Lundehund vaccinations in several shots spaced 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year. Depending on their lifestyle (hunting, hiking, boarding, travel, region), your veterinarian may add vaccines against Rabies, Kennel cough, Piroplasmosis, Lyme disease and Leishmaniasis.
| Vaccine | Primary vaccination | First booster | Then | For whom? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
CHPPi (core vaccine)Core Distemper, Rubarth hepatitis, parvovirosis and parainfluenza | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All animals |
LeptospirosisCore Leptospirosis (bacterium transmitted by rodent urine and stagnant water) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | All animals |
RabiesDepending on lifestyle Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, categorized dogs, most boarding kennels and shows |
Kennel coughDepending on lifestyle Bordetella bronchiseptica and parainfluenza | 8 weeks | 1 year | every year | Dogs attending boarding kennels, daycares, dog clubs and shows |
PiroplasmosisDepending on lifestyle Tick-borne babesiosis | 5 months · 6 months | 1 year | every year | Hunting dogs, dogs living in rural or wooded areas, dogs highly exposed to ticks |
Lyme diseaseDepending on lifestyle Tick-borne borreliosis | 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | Hiking dogs, hunting dogs, forest areas of the East and the Center |
LeishmaniasisDepending on lifestyle Leishmaniasis transmitted by sandflies | 6 months | 1 year and 6 months | every year | Dogs living or staying in the South of France, Corsica and the Mediterranean basin |
Adult Norwegian Lundehund booster shots are given annually for leptospirosis and rabies. For distemper, hepatitis, and parvovirus, a booster every three years is often enough after the first booster. Your veterinarian will tailor the schedule to your dog's actual risk.
Which boosters does your Norwegian Lundehund need?
Enter your companion's age to see which vaccines are due now and when the next boosters are needed.
Choosing 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 for guidance only and doesn't replace advice from a veterinarian. If you have any concerns about your pet's health, consult a professional.
