Tidbits & Tails - Bite-Sized Bits of Pet Info

What Breed of Dog Has Six Toes on Every Paw?

The Norwegian Lundehund, used to hunt puffin, is a physically unique dog that has characteristics other dogs do not have:

  • They have six toes on each paw, including two dewclaws. Even the dewclaws are muscled and functional, making the Lundehund an amazing climber.

  • They have an extra joint in the neck. This lets them bend their heads all the way back to touch their shoulders!

  • They have flexible joints in their shoulders, allowing them to bend their front legs 90 degrees out from the bodies.

  • Their ears are extremely mobile and can be "closed" to block out water.

These beautiful dogs are part of the Spitz family and are mostly found in Norway and Finland.