Ryukyu Inu vs Norwegian Lundehund - Breed Comparison

Ryukyu Inu vs Norwegian Lundehund - Breed ComparisonRyukyu Inu is originated from Japan but Norwegian Lundehund is originated from Norway. Ryukyu Inu may grow 10 cm / 4 inches higher than Norwegian Lundehund. Ryukyu Inu may weigh 16 kg / 36 pounds more than Norwegian Lundehund. Both Ryukyu Inu and Norwegian Lundehund has almost same life span. Both Ryukyu Inu and Norwegian Lundehund has same litter size. Ryukyu Inu requires Low maintenance. But Norwegian Lundehund requires Moderate maintenance

History

ryukyu inu - historyThe Ryukyu Inu is a medium-sized dog that comes from Okinawa, Japan.

It’s a dog that is fairly rare having been used to track boar. There isn’t much information on the dog’s history but after its numbers declined after World War II, there was an urge in the 1980s to save the breed.

The dog isn’t recognized by any major Kennel Clubs.

norwegian lundehund - historyThe Norwegian Lundehund hails from the island of Vaeroy, Norway and was created for the purpose of puffin hunting.

Now that these puffins are a protected species, the dog is no longer used for hunting and has become a companion dog.

The breed decreased in numbers during- and after World War II because the islands where he came from had an outbreak of distemper. It was in 1963 that another outbreak occurred and the dogs were almost wiped out. A breeding program saw their numbers being built up.

It was in 2011 that the dog was recognized by the American Kennel Club.

Description

ryukyu inu puppy - descriptionJapanese dog breeds end with the word ‘Inu’ or ‘Ken’ . It means ‘dog’.

The medium sized Ryukyu Inu stands at between 46 to 50cm in height and weighs between 15 to 25kg. He has a black nose, dark brown eyes and erect ears. The tail is long and curls over the back.

The dog’s coat is short and you get the single- and double coated varieties. The coat can be brindle, red, white, liver or black. Some of the dogs have tiger-like stripes in the coat. People are amazed at these dogs as they have incredible climbing abilities and are even capable of climbing a tree.

Temperament:

These dogs are quiet, unobtrusive dogs. The Ryukyu Inu looks very much like a wild dog, which gives the impression of being un-trainable and ferocious but they are easily trained and make splendid pets.

Many people who have had them as pets say they would choose this dog over and over again. They are brave too and get on well with children or pets in the home. They don’t look for trouble, and their kind, stable natures make them excellent therapy dogs.

They’re intelligent dogs and will require plenty of mental and physical stimulation. They will also need to be trained and socialized as they are confident, strong-willed dogs who might not obey you if left to do what they want.

norwegian lundehund puppy - descriptionAs a spitz-type dog, with the Lundehund you’ll recognize the typical spitz-dog characteristics – the erect ears and the tail that curves over the back.

He is a small to medium sized dog standing at 30 – 40cm and weighing 6 – 9kg. He is an active dog and is as agile as a fox.

He has a dense double coat which is white, reddish/tan with some black tips. He is a dog which sheds constantly.

Strangely this dog has 6 toes and his rear pads have elongated foot pads which have helped the dog be able to climb over rocks. He also has a flexible type of neck that is capable of craning back so that the head touches the spine. The dog has some unique features and wriggling in and out of small spaces is another of his characteristics. In fact he can do things that you would not imagine a dog could do.

Temperament:

When you have a Lundehund in your life you’ll agree he has a happy, amicable personality. He is non-aggressive.

He will require training and socialization as he is an independent dog who can be obstinate. He is quite aloof with strangers too and once he starts barking at them he tends to want to continue. Training him will put an end to that irritating behavior. He is a loving, loyal dog, enjoying the company of his human family.

Characteristics

ryukyu inu dog - characteristicsThis dog has always been a hunting dog so he will want to have his fair share of good exercise – long walks as well as ball and rope games.

He makes a splendid pet because he has an amicable nature wanting to please. He is quiet, loving and loyal, and with such a dog in your home and heart, you just keep discovering what a wonderful pet this 4-legged friend can be.

norwegian lundehund dog - characteristicsThe Norwegian Lundehund isn’t your everyday dog and in fact he is known as a primitive breed. Perhaps he wouldn’t be the best dog to have if you’re a first-time dog owners as training is quite difficult too.

People who are willing to take a chance on him say that with training and socialization he can become a loving canine companion.

Health Problems

ryukyu inu puppies - health problemsThese Japanese dogs are thought to be fairly healthy dogs, but like with most other dogs, you would need to be aware of hip dysplasia, bloat, caner and hypothyroidism.

The Ryukyu Inu, with its 10 to 12 years lifespan, will be prone to minor ailments, but with good care he is not likely to succumb to any of them.

Cataract:

Cataracts have a number of causes in dogs. This disease of the eye can occur at any age, and can develop over weeks or even years.

Cataracts can occur in just one eye or both eyes and a disease such as diabetes can bring on a cataract.

Good nutrition is important for a dog to build a strong immune system, and nutritional supplementation can certainly help to enhance lens health. Cataract surgery can be performed to remove the cataracts.

norwegian lundehund puppies - health problemsThe Lundehund is prone to digestive disorders but even so he has got a good chance of living to be 11, 12, 13 or 14 years of age with good care.

He is however, one of these dogs prone to health problems of which chronic intestinal disease is one. Its the kind of illness that can recur because it is resistant to treatment.

Experts on these dogs say that they should have a fecal test done every 6 months or so, saying that one thing a bit negative with this dog breed is that you may well be forking out quite a bit on chronic veterinary care.

Caring The Pet

ryukyu inu dogs - caringThe coat of the Ryukya Inu requires brushing twice a week to remove loose hairs. At the same time check your dog over for new lumps and check inside his mouth for bad teeth. Bad teeth can cause lots of pain and toxins within the body. You can also choose to have the teeth seen to and cleaned by your vet.

Provide him with his own warm, dry place to sleep.

Provide him with top quality food. There are some excellent commercially manufactured foods on the market that make a point of ensuring good ingredients in them. Your Ryukya Inu needs good food to ensure longevity and health.

Try to include some home-made food for him which can be simply mixed into the dry kibble twice a week. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots is super tasty and nutritious. This food can all be chopped up, refrigerated and added warmed up and in small portions to your pets dry kibble once or twice a week. Your dog will love it.

Ensure there is always a bowl of fresh, cool water within his reach.

Have him neutered or spayed if you aren’t wanting puppies.

Keep his vaccines up to date against some deadly canine diseases.

Get him to the vet when he is injured, in pain or sick.

Diet:

norwegian lundehund dogs - caringLike any other dog, the Norwegian Lundehund will do well on the best quality food. If you buy him commercially manufactured food, check the ingredients on the packaging. Lots of these lower quality foods are made from ingredients that are toxic for your pet, so buy a good quality one.

Buy food according to your dog’s age and activity levels. To make his meals more interesting, add in some delicious home prepared food for him. Stay away from spicy, exotic foods and go for something like boiled chicken, brown rice and vegetables. Some raw meat added to the kibble from time to time can also do wonders for your pet as he requires a high-protein diet. Make sure he always has access to fresh, cool water.

Other ‘caring’ things to do to make sure your pet has a quality lifestyle is -

Brush his hair twice a week as he is a fairly heavy shedder. Not only does it keep the coat nice and shiny, it builds up a bond between you and your pet.

Check his ears and eyes regularly to make sure they are free from infection.

Clip his nails when they get long as your pet can hurt himself if the nails hook onto things.

Whenever he is ill, get him to the vet for a check-up.

Make sure he has a nice safe, dry, warm, snug place to sleep.

Keep him well exercised. A dog that is put into the backyard and more or less forgotten will be most miserable. Why get a pet if you don’t want to make him a 100% part of the family?

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Non sporting dog
Origin:
Japan
Norway
Height Male:
46 - 50 cm
18 - 20 inches
30 - 40 cm
11 - 16 inches
Height Female:
46 - 50 cm
18 - 20 inches
30 - 40 cm
11 - 16 inches
Weight Male:
15 - 25 kg
33 - 56 pounds
6 - 9 kg
13 - 20 pounds
Weight Female:
15 - 25 kg
33 - 56 pounds
6 - 9 kg
13 - 20 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
12 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 8
3 - 8
Size:
Medium dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Okinawa Native Dog, Ryukyu Dog
The Puffin Dog, Norsk Lundehund
Colors Available:
liver or black - stripes like a Tiger, Brindle, red, white
Reddish/tan markings, black tips, white
Coat:
Shortish - single- and double-coated varieties
Medium length, double coat
Shedding:
Moderate
Constant
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
No

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Sakhalin Husky vs Ryukyu Inu - Breed Comparison
  2. Ryukyu Inu vs American Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  3. Ryukyu Inu vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  4. Ryukyu Inu vs Alaskan Husky - Breed Comparison
  5. Ryukyu Inu vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  6. Ryukyu Inu vs German Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  7. Ryukyu Inu vs Portuguese Water Dog - Breed Comparison
  8. Ryukyu Inu vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  9. Ryukyu Inu vs Puli - Breed Comparison
  10. Ryukyu Inu vs Griffon Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  11. Ryukyu Inu vs Borador - Breed Comparison
  12. Ryukyu Inu vs German Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  13. Ryukyu Inu vs Canadian Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  14. Ryukyu Inu vs McNab - Breed Comparison
  15. Ryukyu Inu vs Porcelaine - Breed Comparison
  16. Ryukyu Inu vs Finnish Lapphund - Breed Comparison
  17. Ryukyu Inu vs Berger Blanc Suisse - Breed Comparison
  18. Ryukyu Inu vs Griffon Nivernais - Breed Comparison
  19. Ryukyu Inu vs Hokkaido - Breed Comparison
  20. Ryukyu Inu vs Petit Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  21. Ryukyu Inu vs Pumi - Breed Comparison
  22. Ryukyu Inu vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  23. Ryukyu Inu vs Griffon Fauve de Bretagne - Breed Comparison
  24. Ryukyu Inu vs Basque Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  25. Ryukyu Inu vs Istrian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  26. Tibetan Terrier vs Norwegian Lundehund - Breed Comparison
  27. Standard Poodle vs Norwegian Lundehund - Breed Comparison
  28. Norwegian Lundehund vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  29. Norwegian Lundehund vs Chow Chow - Breed Comparison
  30. Norwegian Lundehund vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  31. Norwegian Lundehund vs Dalmatian - Breed Comparison
  32. Norwegian Lundehund vs Chinese Shar Pei - Breed Comparison
  33. Norwegian Lundehund vs Keeshond - Breed Comparison
  34. Norwegian Lundehund vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  35. Norwegian Lundehund vs Mexican Hairless - Breed Comparison
  36. Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs Norwegian Lundehund - Breed Comparison
  37. Pomsky vs Norwegian Lundehund - Breed Comparison
  38. Sakhalin Husky vs Norwegian Lundehund - Breed Comparison
  39. Other vs Norwegian Lundehund - Breed Comparison
  40. Olde English Bulldogge vs Norwegian Lundehund - Breed Comparison
  41. Old English Bulldog vs Norwegian Lundehund - Breed Comparison
  42. Schnauzer vs Norwegian Lundehund - Breed Comparison
  43. Puggle vs Norwegian Lundehund - Breed Comparison
  44. Schnoodle vs Norwegian Lundehund - Breed Comparison
  45. Pharaoh Hound vs Norwegian Lundehund - Breed Comparison
  46. Redbone Coonhound vs Norwegian Lundehund - Breed Comparison
  47. Portuguese Water Dog vs Norwegian Lundehund - Breed Comparison
  48. Puli vs Norwegian Lundehund - Breed Comparison
  49. Santal Hound vs Norwegian Lundehund - Breed Comparison
  50. Pudelpointer vs Norwegian Lundehund - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds