Hound group · Norway
Norwegian Elkhound
Also called Norsk Elghund, Grey Norwegian Elkhound.
What makes them remarkable
The “elk” in its name refers to moose: this Norwegian dog was developed to help hunt them.
- Bold
- Playful
- Friendly
- Loyal
- Alert
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 22 to 25 kg48 to 55 lb
- Lives
- 12 to 15 years
- Energy
- High
- Trains
- Moderate
- Barks
- High
Training
Training a Norwegian Elkhound
Hound breeds. Recall is the whole game. Build it on a long line before you trust it, and never punish a slow return.
Independent Yet Loyal
Start here
Bred to track moose and hold them at bay independently. They think for themselves but bond strongly with family.
Alert Barkers
Their job was to bark to alert hunters. This instinct remains strong. Manage expectations and train "quiet" early.
Cold Weather Lovers
Thick double coat means they thrive in cold but suffer in heat. Limit exercise in warm weather.
The app turns this into five to fifteen minutes a day.
Add your Norwegian Elkhound and it builds the plan around their age, where they came from and what they already know, one step at a time.
Free to start. iPhone. No card needed.
At home
Living with one
Bred to hunt by scent or sight, often far from the handler. Independent, with a nose or eyes that override you.
Gets on with
- ChildrenHigh
- Other dogsModerate
- StrangersModerate
- CatsModerate
Breed averages. Early socialisation and the individual dog matter more.
- Exercise
- 1-2 hours daily. Active breed that loves hiking, running, and cold-weather activities.
- Grooming
- Moderate maintenance. Weekly brushing, heavy shedding seasonally.
- Drool
- Low
- Coat
- Double coat, Dense, Weather-resistantGrey, Silver Grey, Black Tips
- In a flat
- Needs more space than a flat gives.
Health
Things to ask a breeder or vet about
Hip Dysplasia
Moderate
Joint condition that can affect mobility
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Moderate
Inherited eye condition causing vision loss
Hypothyroidism
Mild
Thyroid condition manageable with medication
Where they come from
History
Ancient Viking breed used for hunting moose (elk in Norwegian) for thousands of years. Sailed with Vikings and guarded homesteads. The national dog of Norway.
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