Norwegian Elkhound

Dog Breed Profile

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Norwegian Elkhound History

The Norwegian Elkhound is a medium-sized, long-legged, heavy-boned, upright-hunting hound. The Norwegian Elkhound is a medium-sized, long-legged, heavy-boned, and upright-hunting hound. He was bred for tracking, as his ancestors hunted elk. The scenthounds’ original purpose was to track the wounded and dead animals. The 5 major hounds in the Nordic countries urged each other on, and marked the trail, until it was time to catch their prey. The origin of the Norwegian Elkhound is obscure. It was possibly developed from the more ancient, smaller forms that date back to the Middle Ages. It may have descended from the St. Hubert Hound of France, which was used to hunt big game, or from the Old English Harrier, which was used not only to hunt the deer, but also bears, lynx, wolves, and other wild animals.

Time of Origin

500 BC

Country of Origin

Norway

Ancestry

Spitz

Norwegian Elkhound Physical Characteristics

The Norwegian Elkhound is a medium-sized, short-legged breed of hunting hound. They stand between 23 and 27 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 65 and 95 pounds. They have a thick, shaggy, double-coated fur that is predominantly shades of red, but can also be white, cream, or gray. They have a bushy tail and wide, erect ears. The characteristic facial features of the Norwegian Elkhound are their massive head, elongated muzzle, and long, tapering neck.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Unknown

Coat Colors

Unknown

Height Range

Male Height Range: 19 – 21 inches

Female Height Range: 19 – 21 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 48 – 55 lbs

Female Weight Range: 48 – 50 lbs

Norwegian Elkhound Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

12-15 yrs

Norwegian Elkhound Health Concerns

Hip Dysplasia, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Sebaceous Adenitis, Pyotraumatic Dermatitis, Hypothyroidism

Norwegian Elkhound Temperament and Behaviour

The Norwegian Elkhound is an alert and watchful dog that is highly protective of his family. They are extremely loyal to their family members, but sometimes have a tendency to be stubborn and dominant. Although they love to be with their owners, they can also get along well with other pets and animals.

Norwegian Elkhound Activity Requirements

Norwegian Elkhounds were bred for hunting, tracking, and watchdogging. They are a medium-sized, athletic dog with a thick, coarse coat. While they are not as high-energy as some other breeds, they do still benefit from regular exercise. An hour or more of walking or running a day will help to keep your Norwegian Elkhound healthy. They will appreciate being outdoors, but they can be strong-willed and stubborn at times. Be sure to find a leash that fits well and won’t come off easily. If you are looking for a good, all-around companion, a Norwegian Elkhound may be a good choice. They are intelligent, devoted, and eager to please. While they do require regular walks, they are not overly demanding.

Miles Per Day

Unknown

Activity Per Day

Unknown

Daily Food

2.5 cups

Kennel Club Recognition

American Kennel Club

Recognized by the American Kennel Club

Norwegian Elkhound is part of the Hound group.

Visit the American Kennel Club website.

The Kennel Club

Recognized by The Kennel Club

Norwegian Elkhound is part of the Hound group.

Visit the Kennel Club website.

Australian National Kennel Council

Recognized by the Australian National Kennel Council

Norwegian Elkhound is part of the Hound group.

Visit the Australian National Kennel Council website.

Canadian Kennel Club

Recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club

Norwegian Elkhound is part of the Hound group.

Visit the Canadian Kennel Club website.