Overview: The Norwegian Elkhound is a very high energy dog that loves to interact and play. It tolerates the presence of other dogs and pets. It also is somewhat accepting of strangers. The Norwegian Elkhound can be difficult to train but it has amazing watchdog and guard dog potential. The Norwegian Elkhound’s coat has great resistance to the cold weather. It doesn't do well at all in the warmer climates. It enjoys the disctinction of being the National Dog of Norway.

Temperament: The living result of a Spitz-like dog with hound traits mixed in, the Norwegian Elkhound is very playful and energetic, while still being able to be alert and protective. This dog thrives on adventure, especially if that adventure is outside in the cold. Daily exercise is needed with this dog otherwise it can get bored and may become destructive. Unless it is trained it may pull on the leash when being walked and may feel threatened by strange dogs that cross its path. The Norwegian Elkhound may also bark a lot.

History: Although the process and date of this breed are unknown it is believed that the Norwegian Elkhound’s roots lie with the Spitz family. Because it hunts like a hound, it is classified in the hound group. A multi-talented breed, over the years it has served as a guardian, defender and a herder since the era of the vikings. Even though the name implies it was used for hunting elk it was actually used for moose hunting along with other large game such as bear and wolf. Usually there were two types of hunting skills that were used with this dog. The bandhund is used for drawing out the elk while staying near its owner and the loshund runs ahead to cut off the elk and strike it down. If the elk stops the loshund will start barking so the owner knows what is happening, then the dog will jump out at the elk and while dodging any antler strikes distracting the elk to keep it where it stands until the hunters arrive. The dogs’ jobs are just to draw out and distract so the hunter can take aim and shoot the elk. Although this breed has been carefully bred since ancient times it wasn't until the 19th century that there was an official pedigree formed for standard dog expectations. Since the pedigree was formed this breed has been shown in Scandinavian dog shows and later in England and American dog shows. The Norwegian Elkhound was accepted into the AKC in 1913 and has since received a moderate amount of popularity. In Scandinavia this dog is still used for large game hunting.

Names: The Norwegian Elkhound is also known as the Elkhound, and the Norsk Elghund.

Groups: The Norwegian Elkhound was formally recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1913 and assigned to the Hound Group.

Physical Characteristics: The average adult Norwegian Elkhound can be 19.5 to 20.5 inches in height and can weigh 48 to 55 lb. The coat of this dog is dense, hard, and smooth overlaying a soft and dense undercoat. The colors of the coat may be a gray with variations in the tint with black tips. The undercoat is light silver. There may also be yellow or brown, and even white patches on distinct spots on the body.

Care: Daily exercise is needed for this dog as it was bred to run and hunt. A good jog or a very long walk should suffice. It is best if this dog lives inside with the owner but it does need access to the outdoors; cold climates are best. Its coat needs to be brushed twice a week and even daily when it is shedding.

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