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Norwegian Elkhound

The Norwegian Elkhound is also known as: Elkhound, Norsk Elghund

Fast Facts

Group classification: Hound Country of origin: Norway Date of origin: Antiquity
Weight (M): 55 lb Height (M): 21" Life expectancy: 10 - 12 years
Weight (F): 48 lb Height (F): 20"

Norwegian Elkhound Picture

More Norwegian Elkhound Pictures

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  1. General Description of the Norwegian Elkhound

    A classic northern Spitz, the Norwegian Elkhound is square proportioned and well balanced. The wedge shaped head is broad at the ears and clean cut, ending in a tapering muzzle; stop is clearly defined. Eyes are oval, medium sized and very dark brown in color. Ears are high set, erect and pointed. The Norwegian Elkhound’s body is muscular and well developed, with substantial bone. The back is straight and strong, and the chest is deep. The dog’s tail is set high and is curled tightly over the centerline of the back. The double coat consists of a dense and woolly undercoat covered with a coarse, straight outer coat. Coloring is in various shades of gray, with the saddle being darker than the rest of the body, and the muzzle, ears and tail tip black.

  2. Norwegian Elkhound Temperament

    The hardy Norwegian Elkhound is a brave and stalwart companion, ever ready to embark on an outdoor adventure. The Elkhound is known to view the family as its pack and is loyal to each family member, without playing favorites. The dog is very energetic and playful and enjoys the antics of children, though its sometimes rowdy play may be unfit for very small children. Extremely independent by nature, the Norwegian Elkhound can be difficult to manage at times, and thorough obedience training from a young age is therefore imperative. This breed is usually friendly toward strangers, but may have problems getting along with pets and other dogs. The Elkhound enjoys using its voice.

  3. Caring for a Norwegian Elkhound

    Daily strenuous exercise is vital to a Norwegian Elkhound’s physical and mental health. A long walk or stimulating game will always be greeted with a wagging tail. Norwegian Elkhounds can become destructive if not exercised sufficiently. This dog absolutely adores the cold but has limited patience for heat. Shelter on hot days is a must. The Elkhound is hardy enough to live outside, but much prefers to live inside with its loved ones. Affirmative discipline from a young age will help to counteract the dog’s occasional stubborn spells. The coat needs to be brushed biweekly during most of the year, and may require daily attention during shedding season. The most important health concern for the Norwegian Elkhound is canine hip dysplasia; other concerns include kidney disease, hot spots and sebaceous cysts.

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We include the following list of misspellings so our internal search tools can send you to the right place. People often misspell Norwegian Elkhound as Norwegian Elk Hound, Norwegen Elkhound, Norweigan Elkhound or Norwiegan Elkhound.

 

 

 

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