The brave, wolfish-faced, energetic, loyal but obstinate Norwegian Elkhound is a purebred dog with a medium, square-shaped build, having a wedge-shaped, broad head ending in a defined stop, having pointed ears, tightly curled tail, and eyes full of friendly expressions. This ancient Northern Spitz breed makes a herding, hunting, defender and guardian dog, that gets its name for its popularity of hunting down elks (moose), and even wolves and bears.
Other Names | Norsk Elghund, Harmaa norjanhirvikoira, Gray Norwegian Elkhound, Grå Norsk Elghund, Small Grey Elk Dog, Norwegian Moose Dog |
Coat | Dense, wooly, thick |
Color | White, black, silver, gray |
Breed Type | Purebred |
Group (of Breed) | Hound, hunting dog |
Lifespan | 10 to 12 years |
Weight/Size | 48 to 55 pounds |
Height | 19 to 21 inches |
Shedding | Seasonal, heavy |
Temperament | Brave, friendly, loyal, playful, independent, protective, social, stubborn |
Good with Child | Yes |
Hypoallergenic | No |
Barking | Frequent |
Litter Size | 7-14 puppies |
Country of Origin | Norway |
Competitive Registration | CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, KCGB, CKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR, DRA, NAPR, ACA |
This breed can historically be traced back to almost a thousand years, since the time when a similar-featured dog was used by Vikings for guarding and hunting. It is also not absurd to trace this breed to 5000 BC after archeologists found skeletal remains of dogs having a close resemblance to the Norwegian elkhound. During hunting, these dogs would mostly prance and jump in front of the elk (or its prey) to divert its attention and draw the attention of the master, until the master would reach the spot and hunt down the prey.
The popular, much sought-after mixes of this purebred are:
These reliable, fearless, extremely dedicated dogs combine qualities of the spitz and the hounds, searching for fun and adventure outdoors, barking frequently, although friendly with strangers, family members and children. These territorial Arctic dogs love cool climate and by tendency tend to prey upon smaller pets as also possessing a feeling for co-existing with its owner, rather than under him, and would make a natural guard and watch dog. Apartment life is good if they get enough exercise.
Teach them to socialize, especially be strict to limit its barks if you find it’s barking excessively or being provoked at the very sight of smaller animals or other dogs, for which, puppyhood is the best time to teach. Give these stubborn, independent-natured dogs a consistent but firm training, as you set the rules clearly.
The Norwegian elkhound tends to over-eat and gain weight, for which reason, keep an eye on what you give, and what/how much it eats. This active breed will need more of the vitamin B complex than other dogs. You can also seek the help of the breeder or the veterinarian. In general, 2 to 2 ½ cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals, is recommended. Opt for a high-quality dry dog food especially created for such breeds.
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