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Boston Terrier vs Norwegian Lundehund

Side-by-side comparison across all 14 AKC trait ratings, with a clear verdict on which breed fits which kind of household.

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The bottom line

Boston Terrier vs Norwegian Lundehund

People compare Boston Terriers and Norwegian Lundehunds because they’re both small, non-sporting breeds with big personalities and oddball charm. But that’s where the similarities end. Think of it like this: the Boston is your friendly neighborhood comedian, always up for a cuddle on the couch or a walk around the block. The Lundehund is the cryptic explorer who’d rather scale a rock wall than sit in your lap, built for cliffs and cold wind, not city sidewalks. If you want a dog that greets everyone like a long-lost friend, thrives in apartments, and bonds deeply with kids and seniors alike, the Boston is your guy. They’re smart, eager to please, and adapt well. just don’t expect marathon runs or hot-weather hikes. Their flat faces mean breathing can be a lifelong issue, and you might end up paying for surgery you didn’t plan on. The Lundehund? This rare breed isn’t for casual commitment. They’re independent, harder to train, and come with a genetic gut condition that demands careful monitoring and vet care that can cost thousands. But if you’re an experienced owner in a cooler climate who values uniqueness and a dog with a mission, they’re unforgettable. They’re not outwardly affectionate like Bostons, but their loyalty runs deep. Here’s the real talk: Bostons look like they need protection, but they’re tough in spirit. Lundehunds look rugged, but their health is fragile. Pick the Boston if you want a joyful, social companion who fits into most lives. Pick the Lundehund only if you’ve done the research, can access specialty vets, and are ready for a dog that’s more partner than pet.

Boston Terrier
Norwegian Lundehund
15–17 in
Height
12–15 in
12–25 lb
Weight
20–30 lb
11–13 yr
Lifespan
12–15 yr
$1.5–3.5k
Puppy price
$1.5–3.5k
#21
AKC popularity
#191

Trait-by-trait

Higher bar = more of that trait. Shedding, barking, drooling, grooming flipped for readability.
Affectionate w/ Family
Good with Young Children
Good with Other Dogs
Shedding Level
Coat Grooming
Drooling Level
Good with Strangers
Playfulness
Watchdog / Protective
Adaptability
Trainability
Energy Level
Barking Level
Mental Stimulation Needs
AffectionGood w/ KidsGood w/ DogsShedding LevelGroomingDrooling LevelGood w/ StrangersPlayfulnessProtectiveAdaptabilityTrainabilityEnergy LevelBarking LevelMental Stim.
Boston Terrier Norwegian Lundehund
Overlay

Where they diverge

Affectionate w/ Family
Boston Terrier is more affectionate (2-point difference)
Boston
Good with Young Children
Boston Terrier is better with kids (2-point difference)
Boston
Good with Strangers
Boston Terrier is friendlier with strangers (2-point difference)
Boston
Playfulness
Boston Terrier is more playful (2-point difference)
Boston
Good with Other Dogs
Boston Terrier is better with other dogs (1-point difference)
Boston
The verdict

Choose the Boston Terrier if…

  • Apartments
  • Families
  • First-time owners
  • You value affectionate w/ familyBoston Terrier scores noticeably higher.

Choose the Norwegian Lundehund if…

  • Experienced dog owners
  • Those interested in rare breeds
  • Active families
  • You value shedding levelNorwegian Lundehund scores higher here.
Boston Terrier Owner’s Guide
Everything you need before bringing your Boston Terrier home.
Breed variants, breeder red flags, and what to ask
First-week checklist and daily schedules by age
Training timeline from 8 weeks to adulthood
Health screenings, emergency card, and feeding portions
Grooming schedule, first-year costs, and what nobody tells you
Get Your Guide
Norwegian Lundehund Owner’s Guide
Everything you need before bringing your Norwegian Lundehund home.
Breed variants, breeder red flags, and what to ask
First-week checklist and daily schedules by age
Training timeline from 8 weeks to adulthood
Health screenings, emergency card, and feeding portions
Grooming schedule, first-year costs, and what nobody tells you
Get Your Guide

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