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Glen of Imaal 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

Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Norwegian Lundehund

People compare the Glen of Imaal Terrier and the Norwegian Lundehund because they’re both rare, low-slung, and kind of quirky-looking. At first glance, they seem like oddball alternatives to mainstream terriers or family dogs. But their similarities end around size. Choose one over the other and you’re really choosing two different kinds of weird. The Glen is the couch potato with a secret past. He was bred to go underground after badgers, so he’s bold and tough when riled, but most days he’d rather sprawl across your lap. He’s the most affectionate terrier you’ll meet. clinging, even. and he adapts well to city living or country homes. But he’s stubborn and not always eager to please, so training takes patience. And if you have a rabbit or squirrel, don’t bother. His prey drive won’t care. The Lundehund is a biological anomaly. Six toes per foot, ears that fold shut, and a neck so flexible he can touch his spine to his belly. this dog evolved for cliffside hunting. He’s alert, independent, and always on the move. But his biggest challenge isn’t behavior, it’s health. Lundehund syndrome means chronic digestive issues, and managing it is expensive and constant. You’re not just adopting a dog, you’re signing up for a lifetime of vet coordination. Families wanting a low-key, affectionate oddball should pick the Glen. But if you’re a seasoned owner drawn to rare breeds and don’t mind being a medical advocate, the Lundehund might just steal your heart. and your weekends. Here’s the real talk: the Glen wants to be your shadow. The Lundehund? He’ll tolerate your affection, but he’s really here for the adventure.

Glen of Imaal Terrier
Norwegian Lundehund
12.5–14 in
Height
12–15 in
32–40 lb
Weight
20–30 lb
10–15 yr
Lifespan
12–15 yr
$1.5–3.5k
Puppy price
$1.5–3.5k
#174
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.
Glen of Imaal Terrier Norwegian Lundehund
Overlay

Where they diverge

Affectionate w/ Family
Glen of Imaal Terrier is more affectionate (2-point difference)
Glen
Shedding Level
Glen of Imaal Terrier sheds less (1-point difference)
Glen
Coat Grooming
Norwegian Lundehund needs less grooming (1-point difference)
Norwegian
Drooling Level
Norwegian Lundehund drools less (1-point difference)
Norwegian
Adaptability
Glen of Imaal Terrier is more adaptable (1-point difference)
Glen
The verdict

Choose the Glen of Imaal Terrier if…

  • Experienced terrier owners
  • Families with older children
  • Apartment or small home living
  • You value affectionate w/ familyGlen of Imaal 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.
Glen of Imaal Terrier Owner’s Guide
Everything you need before bringing your Glen of Imaal 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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