Norwegian Lundehund Grooming Guide

Introduction to Grooming Needs of Norwegian Lundehunds

The Norwegian Lundehund, also known as the Puffin Dog, is a unique breed with several distinctive features, including six toes on each foot and a flexible neck that can bend backward to touch the spine. Originating from the remote islands of Arctic Norway, this breed was used to hunt puffins and their eggs. Their coat is adapted to the cold, wet climate of the region.

Coat Types:

• The Norwegian Lundehund has a double coat: a soft, dense undercoat and a rough outer coat.
• Common coat colors include reddish-brown to fallow, often with white markings and a white-tipped tail.

Brushing Basics

The coat of the Norwegian Lundehund is relatively easy to care for but requires regular brushing to maintain its health and appearance.

Importance of Regular Brushing:

• Helps in removing dirt, debris, and loose hairs.
• Prevents tangles and matting.
• Stimulates the skin and distributes natural oils, ensuring a healthy coat.

Types of Brushes Suitable for Norwegian Lundehunds:

• Pin Brush: Ideal for detangling and removing loose hairs from the outer coat.
• Undercoat Rake: Useful for removing dead hairs from the dense undercoat, especially during shedding seasons.

Brushing Techniques:

• Brush in the direction of hair growth.
• Start from the head, moving towards the tail.
• Use gentle strokes, ensuring not to pull or tug on the hair.

Bath Time: How Often and What to Use

Norwegian Lundehunds, with their weather-resistant coat, don’t require frequent baths unless they’ve been particularly active outdoors or have gotten into something messy.

Frequency:

• A bath every 2-3 months is typically sufficient, but it can vary based on the dog’s activities and environment.

Selecting Dog-Appropriate Shampoos:

• Use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo that won’t strip the coat’s natural oils.
• If your Norwegian Lundehund has sensitive skin, consider a hypoallergenic or oatmeal-based shampoo.

Ensuring a Stress-Free Experience:

• Use lukewarm water for the bath.
• Gently wet the dog, avoiding the face and ears.
• Apply shampoo in a massaging motion, then rinse thoroughly.
• Towel dry, ensuring the dog is completely dry to prevent any skin issues.

Nail Trimming: Tips and Precautions

The Norwegian Lundehund’s unique foot structure, with its additional toes, requires special attention during nail trims to ensure all nails are kept at a comfortable length.

Tools to Use:

• Dog nail clippers: Either guillotine-style or scissor-style, based on your preference.
• Styptic powder: Essential for stopping any bleeding if you accidentally cut the quick.

Techniques:

• Hold the Norwegian Lundehund’s paw gently but firmly.
• Trim a small bit of the nail at a time to avoid cutting into the quick.
• Remember to trim all the nails, including the ones on the additional toes.
• If you notice a change in the nail’s color or if you see a small dot in the center, stop — you’re nearing the quick.
• If you accidentally cut the quick, apply styptic powder immediately to stop the bleeding.

Addressing Shedding in Norwegian Lundehunds

The Norwegian Lundehund, with its dense double coat, does shed, especially during seasonal changes. Regular grooming can help manage this shedding and keep the coat healthy.

Shedding Patterns:

• They shed consistently throughout the year, with a more pronounced shedding during spring and fall.
• Regular grooming can help manage this shedding and maintain the coat’s health.

Managing Shedding:

• Brush your Norwegian Lundehund several times a week to remove loose hairs and prevent matting.
• An undercoat rake can be particularly effective during shedding seasons to remove dead hairs from the dense undercoat.

Safe Grooming Practices and Potential Challenges

Ensuring a safe and pleasant grooming experience is crucial for both the dog and the owner.

Dog-specific Products: Always opt for products specifically designed for dogs. Human products might be too harsh for their skin and can cause irritations or allergic reactions.

Watching Out for Skin Irritations: Regularly inspect your Norwegian Lundehund’s skin for any signs of redness, rashes, or infections. If you notice any abnormalities, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian.

Potential Grooming Challenges:

• Ear Care: Due to their folded ear structure, Norwegian Lundehunds can be more susceptible to ear infections. Regularly check and clean their ears using a vet-approved ear cleaner.
• Dental Care: Regular teeth brushing or dental chews can help prevent tartar buildup and ensure good oral health. Like many breeds, Norwegian Lundehunds can benefit from consistent dental care to prevent potential oral issues.