A member of the Hound Group, The Norwegian Elkhound is a remarkable combination of power, swiftness, and keen sight. They prefer cooler climates. The Elkhound is a medium sized, sensitive dog who requires lots of space to accommodate his size and an owner who can give him companionship.
The Norwegian Elkhound has existed in Norway for centuries and was used as a herd guarder and a hunter of elk and other game. This dog breed can trace his lineage back to that of the Viking days.
He was bred to have strength, an excellent sense of smell, endurance, and stamina in the cold Norwegian winter. Some of the Elkhound's favorite talents include: tracking, hunting, herding, sledding, guarding, watch dogging and agility.
They are known for having courage, agility and the extreme stamina needed to hold prey (such as: moose and other big game) at bay by barking and dodging attacks by their prey.
They are also well known for having the endurance to track for long hours and in all types of weather over all kinds of terrain.These dogs should never be allowed to run loose.
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In general type he is a rough-coated, Nordic-like breed; very muscular, strong though gracefully built, moves easily and is active with head and neck carried high, the tail carried with an upward sweep with a slight curve over the back. The color is silver-and-gray with black-tipped guard hairs dispersed throughout.
Elkhounds shed huge amounts of fur twice a year, so be forewarned. As with all other dog breeds, Elkhounds also require regular brushing to maintain a healthy coat.
The Elkhound thrives on human companionship and will prove to be a lifelong and loyal friend. Independent, dominant, and stubborn, this breed can be a challenge to train. One must be firm and consistent to gain leadership over a Norwegian Elkhound.
The minimum height and weight of dogs should be 19 - 21 inches in height and 50 - 60 pounds; of bitches, 18 - 20 inches tall and 40 - 55 pounds. This breed requires a lot of exercise to feel satisfied and stay physically and mentally healthy.
Country of origin: Norway Lifespan: 12-14 years Colors: Gray with white undercoat Known health problems: Hip dysplasia, PRA, pyotraumatic dermatitis, occasionally: Fanconi syndrome Famous Norwegian Elkhounds: President Herbert Hoover's Elkhound, "Weejie"
"If we value the pursuit of knowledge, we must be free to follow wherever that search may lead us. The free mind is not barking dog, to be tethered on a ten-foot chain." - Adlai E Stevenson Jr.
