lundehund teeth is a lifelong commitment that every Lundehund owner should prioritize. Lundehunds have the same 42 adult teeth as other dogs, yet their unique jaw structure, size, and temperament create specific dental challenges worth understanding. This complete guide covers everything you need to know about lundehund teeth care, brushing techniques, professional cleanings, and warning signs.
Lundehund Teeth: Anatomy and Dental Profile
The Lundehund (Norwegian Puffin Dog) is a small, ancient Norwegian Spitz from the Lofoten archipelago, weighing 13 to 20 pounds. The breed has a medium-length, tapered spitz muzzle providing adequate jaw length for all 42 permanent adult teeth. Small-breed jaw proportions create slightly elevated crowding risk. The Lundehund has several unique anatomical features including six toes on each foot, an extremely flexible neck able to bend backward to the spine, and shoulders that rotate to 90 degrees — none of which directly affect dental care. Dental disease risk is moderate, consistent with small spitz breeds. Note: The Lundehund is uniquely prone to a protein-losing enteropathy (Lundehund Syndrome) that may affect overall nutrient absorption and oral tissue health.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), dental disease is the most common health condition in adult dogs, affecting over 80% of dogs by age three. For Lundehunds, early and consistent lundehund teeth care is the most effective prevention strategy.
How to Brush Lundehund Teeth
Brush your Lundehund’s teeth twice daily using a small toothbrush or finger brush with enzymatic dog toothpaste. The spitz muzzle provides good access. Pay particular attention to rear premolars where small-breed crowding may create tighter contact points. Work at a 45-degree angle. Lundehund are lively, alert, and independent — their extreme flexibility means they may contort during handling. Establishing calm dental care habits in puppyhood is important for lifelong compliance.
- Choose the right tools: Use a dog-specific toothbrush or silicone finger brush with enzymatic toothpaste formulated for dogs.
- Start slow: Let your Lundehund sniff and lick the toothpaste before introducing the brush.
- Focus on the gumline: Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line where plaque accumulates.
- Brush in circles: Use small circular motions on all tooth surfaces — outer, inner, and chewing surfaces.
- Reward generously: Always follow brushing with praise or a dental treat to build positive associations.
Warning Signs of Dental Problems in Lundehunds
Moderate dental disease risk consistent with small spitz breeds. The Lundehund is uniquely predisposed to Lundehund Syndrome, a protein-losing gastrointestinal condition causing malabsorption — systemic disease may affect oral tissue healing and gum health. Signs of dental disease include persistent bad breath, tartar buildup especially around rear teeth, gum redness, and reduced appetite. Discuss Lundehund Syndrome screening with your veterinarian.
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis) beyond normal “dog breath”
- Visible yellow-brown tartar deposits on teeth, especially near the gum line
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Loose or missing teeth
- Difficulty chewing, dropping food, or avoiding hard kibble
- Pawing at the mouth or face
- Drooling more than usual
- Facial swelling, especially below the eye (possible tooth abscess)
Professional Dental Cleaning for Lundehunds
Schedule professional dental cleanings annually for Lundehund with excellent home care. Discuss Lundehund Syndrome status with your veterinarian prior to anesthesia — malabsorption can affect drug metabolism. Small-breed anesthetic protocols are appropriate. Full-mouth radiographs at each cleaning allow early detection.
Professional cleanings involve a thorough examination, full-mouth dental X-rays, scaling above and below the gumline, polishing, and treatment of any diseased teeth. Your vet will also assess for periodontal disease, a common but serious condition if left untreated. Most dogs recover fully within 24 hours and immediately benefit from a clean, healthy mouth.
Diet and Dental Chews for Lundehund Teeth
Feed your Lundehund a highly digestible, complete diet appropriate for a small breed and designed to minimize gastrointestinal stress. Lundehund Syndrome management may require a specific veterinary diet — follow your veterinarian’s guidance. VOHC-approved dental chews sized for small dogs supplement brushing. Water additives with VOHC acceptance provide daily plaque prevention.
- VOHC-approved dental chews: Look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal on dental treats.
- Dry kibble: Crunchy kibble creates a mild abrasive effect that reduces plaque — better than soft food alone.
- Raw carrots or apple slices: Natural crunchy snacks that help clean teeth mechanically.
- Dental water additives: Antimicrobial additives in drinking water reduce bacteria in the mouth.
- Avoid: Sticky treats, cooked bones, and hard items that can crack teeth (e.g., antlers, ice).
Lundehund-Specific Dental Notes
The Lundehund was used for centuries to climb Lofoten island cliffs and retrieve puffin birds from crevices, using its six toes and extreme physical flexibility. The breed nearly went extinct twice — most severely during World War II, when the entire breed descended from a handful of survivors. AKC FSS recognition exists. Expected lifespan is 12 to 15 years.
Learn more about the AKC’s Lundehund breed profile to understand this breed’s full health needs. For a complete overview of dental care across all life stages, visit our breed dental health guide and our comprehensive dog dental care resource.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lundehund Teeth
- Q: Why does the Lundehund have six toes?
The Lundehund’s six toes per foot were developed for climbing steep rocky cliffs in the Lofoten Islands to retrieve Atlantic puffins from cliff crevices. The extra toe provides additional grip and stability on rough, uneven surfaces. This polydactyly is a defining breed characteristic. - Q: How often should Lundehund have professional dental cleanings?
Annual cleanings for dogs with excellent home care. Discuss your dog’s Lundehund Syndrome status with your veterinarian prior to each dental procedure, as this protein-losing condition may affect anesthetic planning. - Q: What is Lundehund Syndrome?
Lundehund Syndrome is a serious gastrointestinal condition unique to the breed, causing protein-losing enteropathy and malabsorption. It leads to weight loss, edema, digestive issues, and reduced nutrient absorption. All Lundehund owners should establish a relationship with a veterinarian familiar with the condition. - Q: Is the Lundehund rare?
Yes — the Lundehund is one of the world’s rarest dog breeds. The entire modern breed population descends from a very small number of survivors. AKC FSS recognition exists in the United States, but breed numbers worldwide remain very low.