Your family dog might be impressive, but it can’t bend its head backwards until its nose touches its spine – the Norwegian Lundehund can. This nearly-extinct breed didn’t just survive against impossible odds; it came back with superhero-like powers that would make Spider-Man jealous.
Think six-toed feet that can spread like a gecko’s, ears that seal shut underwater, and flexibility that would shame a circus contortionist. These 8 facts about the world’s most unusual dog breed will make you question everything you thought you knew about what’s physically possible in the canine world.
1. Puffin Hunters of the Norwegian Cliffs
The Lundehund’s name is derived from the Norwegian words “lunde” (puffin) and “hund” (dog), hinting at its original purpose as a skilled puffin hunter. These agile dogs were invaluable to the coastal communities of Norway, where they would scale treacherous cliffs and navigate narrow crevices to retrieve the prized puffin birds and their eggs.
2. A Breed on the Brink
As hunting methods evolved and the demand for puffins declined, the Lundehund’s numbers dwindled rapidly. By the 1930s, the breed was on the verge of extinction, with only a handful of dogs remaining in the isolated village of Mastad on the island of Værøy.
3. The Distemper Outbreak
The situation took a dire turn during World War II when a distemper outbreak decimated the already fragile Lundehund population. Only a few dogs survived, and the breed’s future hung by a thread.
4. A Dedicated Breeder’s Efforts
In the midst of this crisis, an English Setter breeder named Eleanor Christie learned about the Lundehund and became determined to save the breed. (ref) She acquired breeding stock from Mastad and established the Luxor kennel, playing a pivotal role in the Lundehund’s revival.
5. Genetic Bottleneck & Outcrossing
Despite Christie’s efforts, the Lundehund faced another setback in the 1960s when only six purebred dogs remained, all related. (ref) To introduce genetic diversity, a carefully managed outcrossing program was initiated, breeding Lundehund males with females from other Spitz breeds.
6. Strict Breeding Guidelines
The Norwegian Lundehund Club and other organizations implemented strict breeding guidelines to ensure the preservation of the breed’s unique characteristics. This meticulous approach has been instrumental in rebuilding the Lundehund population, which now stands at around 1,500 worldwide.
7. A Rare Gem in the Canine World
Today, the Norwegian Lundehund remains one of the rarest breeds recognized by the AKC, ranking 198th out of 201 breeds in popularity. Its unique physical traits, including six toes, a flexible neck, and movable ears, continue to captivate dog enthusiasts worldwide.
8. A Symbol of Resilience
The Norwegian Lundehund’s remarkable journey from the brink of extinction to a thriving, albeit rare, breed is a testament to the dedication of breeders and organizations committed to preserving this living piece of Norwegian history.
Its resilience serves as an inspiration, reminding us of the importance of safeguarding our canine heritage.
The Lundehund: A Canine Marvel of Nature
This rare Norwegian breed boasts an array of extraordinary physical traits. From extra toes to unparalleled flexibility, the Lundehund’s unique adaptations once made it an exceptional puffin hunter.
- At least six toes on each foot, providing exceptional grip and agility on rocky terrain
- A double-jointed neck, allowing the head to bend backward until the nose touches the spine
- Ears that can close to keep out debris when navigating narrow crevices
- Shoulders with extreme flexibility, enabling the legs to splay out perpendicularly for stability
The Lundehund’s remarkable anatomy is a testament to nature’s ingenuity, perfectly equipping this breed for its historical role as a skilled cliff-climber and puffin retriever.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.