Description: Norwegian Elkhound
The Norwegian Elkhound is an ancient and robust spitz-type breed from Norway, originally developed to track and hunt large game such as elk and moose. Known for their courage, intelligence, and loyalty, these medium-sized dogs have a thick, weather-resistant double coat, curled tail, and expressive dark eyes. Norwegian Elkhounds are highly alert, energetic, and independent, making them excellent watchdogs and devoted companions for active families. They bond closely with their families and are typically good with children, although their independent streak may require patient, consistent training. With their high stamina, this breed thrives on daily exercise and mentally stimulating activities. Regular grooming is necessary due to their heavy shedding, but their affectionate, adventurous spirit makes them a rewarding dog for experienced owners.
Norwegian Elkhound ratings
Properties
The Norwegian Elkhound is a robust and versatile breed originating from Norway, where it has been used for centuries as a hunting, guarding, and companion dog. This breed is part of the Spitz family, characterized by its wolf-like appearance, erect ears, and curled tail. Norwegian Elkhounds are medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 48 and 55 pounds, and standing about 19.5 to 20.5 inches tall at the shoulder. They are instantly recognizable by their dense, weather-resistant double coat, which is generally silver-gray with darker shading on the back, muzzle, and ears.
The Norwegian Elkhound is known for its keen hunting instinct and exceptional endurance. Traditionally, it was bred to track and hold large game, such as elk (moose), in place until the hunter arrived. Their independent nature and intelligence make them excellent working dogs, but they also possess a friendly and affectionate temperament, making them suitable family pets. This breed tends to be loyal, protective of their home and loved ones, and generally good with children. While they are usually reserved around strangers, they are not typically aggressive, instead displaying alertness and curiosity.
Due to their herding and hunting heritage, Norwegian Elkhounds require significant physical and mental stimulation. Daily exercise such as long walks, runs, and play sessions are essential to prevent boredom and associated behavioral issues. They also excel in canine sports, such as agility, tracking, and obedience. While highly intelligent, Elkhounds can be stubborn or independent, necessitating patient, consistent, and positive training methods.
Their thick double coat sheds year-round and needs regular brushing, especially during seasonal shedding periods. The breed is generally healthy and robust, with a typical lifespan of 12–15 years, but it can be prone to genetic conditions such as hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy.
Overall, the Norwegian Elkhound is a spirited, adaptable, and loyal companion. The breed thrives in active households where it can participate in a range of activities and form close bonds with its family members.
Appearance
The Norwegian Elkhound is a robust, medium-sized spitz-type breed known for its wolf-like profile and sturdy build, which has evolved to withstand the harsh conditions of its native Norway. One of the breed's most distinctive features is its dense, weather-resistant double coat, which consists of a soft, woolly undercoat and a coarse, straight outer layer. This coat provides the Elkhound with excellent insulation and protection from cold and wet weather, and it is typically gray in color, with various shades ranging from light silver-gray to black-tipped guard hairs. The characteristic coloring includes darker shading on the back and lighter on the chest, stomach, legs, and underside of the tail.
The Norwegian Elkhound has a solid, squarely built body with a strong, level back and well-sprung ribs. Its legs are muscular and straight, giving the dog endurance and agility required for hunting moose and other large game. The breed's movement is described as free and effortless, reflecting its stamina and ability to traverse rugged terrain for hours at a time.
The head of the Norwegian Elkhound is broad but not coarse, tapering to a well-defined stop and a comparatively short, strong muzzle. Its dark brown, oval-shaped eyes are keen and expressive, contributing to a lively and alert expression. The ears are set high, erect, and pointed, further enhancing the breed's fox- or wolf-like appearance. The tail is another defining feature; it is set high and tightly curled over the back, covered with thick, bushy fur.
The Norwegian Elkhound stands about 19.5 to 20.5 inches (50-52 cm) at the shoulder for males and slightly less for females, with males weighing approximately 50-60 pounds (22-27 kg) and females 40-55 pounds (18-25 kg). Despite their stout build, these dogs are agile, athletic, and capable of sudden bursts of speed.
Overall, the breed’s appearance signifies strength, versatility, and endurance, embodying the traits necessary for its historic role as a hunter and guardian. Its dignified bearing, coupled with its thick, attractive coat and intelligent gaze, make the Norwegian Elkhound quite striking and memorable.
History
The Norwegian Elkhound is one of the oldest dog breeds and has a rich history that stretches back several thousand years. Its origins can be traced to Scandinavia, particularly Norway, where archaeological evidence suggests similar spitz-type dogs existed as far back as 4000 to 5000 BC. These early dogs were depicted in ancient carvings and have been discovered in Viking burial sites, indicating their value and companionship to the Norse people.
The breed was primarily developed by the indigenous populations of Norway to serve as a hunting and guard dog, with its primary prey being the moose, referred to as 'elg' in Norwegian—hence the name Elkhound, meaning 'moose dog.' For centuries, Norwegian Elkhounds were indispensable partners in hunting big game such as moose, bear, and elk. Their keen sense of smell, courage, and stamina allowed them to track and hold large animals at bay by barking and keeping them occupied until the hunter could arrive.
The Elkhound’s significance in Norwegian culture continued to grow during the Viking Age, as these dogs were not only hunters but also companions and protectors. Their loyalty and intelligence were prized qualities, and they became a mainstay in Norse households. Over time, breeding practices aimed to enhance these traits, further cementing the Elkhound’s place as a versatile working dog.
Formal recognition of the Norwegian Elkhound as a breed began in the late 19th century. The first dog show in Norway featuring these dogs took place in the 1870s, and the breed standard was established in 1887. The Norwegian Elkhound gained international attention in the following decades, especially after it began to be exported to Britain and North America in the early 20th century. The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the breed in 1930.
Throughout its history, the Norwegian Elkhound has remained largely true to its original type, thanks to careful breeding and its continued use as a hunting dog in Scandinavia. Today, the breed is celebrated for its rich heritage, versatility, and friendly disposition, making it both a treasured hunting companion and a beloved family pet.