Norwegian Elkhound

Breed Overview

The Norwegian Elkhound is an ancient spitz-type breed, known for its strong work ethic and even stronger bond with its master. Hardy and lovingly loyal, the Norwegian Elkhound is a great companion and family dog that naturally takes charge as the leader of the pack. They are highly observant and fairly territorial. Norwegian Elkhounds excel in agility competitions and obedience training. They are a medium-sized breed, with a pointed muzzle, triangular-pointed ears, and a thick, double coat in various shades of grey.

Care and Grooming

The Norwegian Elkhound has a medium-length double-coat that requires frequent brushing to prevent mats and tangles. Due to their thick coats, Norwegian Elkhounds should be well-groomed to avoid overheating. Bathing should be done on an as-needed basis and owners should ensure that the dogs are completely dry before taking them outside. Additionally, their nails should be trimmed regularly.

Training and Socialization

Norwegian Elkhounds have a strong will and should be socialized early and thoroughly. Training should be consistent and consistent reinforcement is key when disciplining a Norwegian Elkhound. Training should focus on obedience because they can be difficult to train. To ensure success in training, owners should keep it interesting by incorporating verbal commands, hand signals, and guidance-based play into teaching the dog.

Health and Wellness

Norwegian Elkhounds are generally considered to be relatively healthy dogs. As with all dogs, regular veterinary check-ups and immunizations are recommended to maintain the health of the dog. Common issues in the breed include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and thyroid disorders. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can significantly reduce the risks associated with these health issues.

Living Environment

The active Norwegian Elkhound should be able to have plenty of opportunities for exercise and exploration. Those living in an apartment should make sure they are able to take their Norwegian Elkhound for several long daily walks, provide the proper stimulation, and have a securely enclosed space where the dog can explore and exercise off-leash.

Temperament and Personality

The Norwegian Elkhound is loyal and protective, making it an excellent guard dog. However, these dogs are friendly and social, and can form strong bonds with their humans. They are also known for being intelligent and an extremely independent breed. Like most Spitz-type breeds, these dogs tend to be stubborn and strong-willed. Proper socialization and consistent training can help prevent this from becoming an issue.

Common Challenges

The main challenges that Norwegian Elkhounds face is overexcitement and disobedience. They are bred to hunt, so they will often have an intense prey drive. They should be taught the meaning of calm and when off-leash, they should remain within arm's reach. Barking and digging are also common challenges with this breed and can be minimized through proper training and socialization.