by Angie Pollock

Created on: December 30, 2009

The Norwegian Elkhound is believed to have existed for thousands of years.  In its native land of Scandinavia, bones of dogs similar to the Grey Norwegian Elkhound were discovered that have dated to as early as 4000 B.C.  This breed’s name derives from its earliest use – as a hunter of elk in which the Elkhound would keep the elk positioned until the hunter could take the elk down.

Early Recognition

The Norwegian Hunters’ Association first exhibited the Norwegian Elkhound in 1877.  In the early 1920s, the British Elkhound Club was formed and later became recognized as an official breed by the British Kennel Club.  According to the American Kennel Club, the Norwegian Elkhound was recognized as an official breed in 1913 although Joan Palmer states in her book “The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds” that the Norwegian Elkhound Association of America was formed and the breed was officially recognized by the AKC somewhere around 1930.

Characteristics of the Norwegian Elkhound

The body of this dog breed is described as “solid and sturdy”.  The average size is approximately 19 to 20 inches in should height and the average weight is 45 to 50 pounds, males being typically larger than females.  The ideal size set by the AKC is 19 1/2 to 20 1/2 inches tall in shoulder height and 48 to 55 pounds.

The coat has various shade of gray with black tips on the outer coat.  The coat is weather-resistant with the undercoat being soft and the outer coat somewhat coarse.  Although some owners claim they are heavy shedders, they are also relatively odorless.

Temperament of the Norwegian Elkhound

This breed is well known for being a good natured pet.  The Norwegian Elkhound is an excellent family pet and lives well with children.  But they are also a versatile dog – being a great companion and having excellent stamina as a hunting dog.

Care for the Norwegian Elkhound

The Norwegian Elkhound is an active breed of dog and requires ample amounts of exercise.  If kept indoors they will need to be exercised regularly which will help reduce the chances of behavioral problems.  Although they prefer cooler climates, they will tolerate warmer environments if kept cool during the hotter months.  It is highly recommended to keep them indoors during the summer months. 

Although grooming is not tedious, the Norwegian Elkhound will shed.  They will require more grooming during their shedding season.  Bathing is only required occasionally or as needed – it is not recommended to bathe an Elkhound often.  The coat is repels water and dirt and being they do not emit typical dog odors, infrequent bathing is best. 

Generally a healthy dog living on average 12 to 15 years, the Norwegian Elkhound usually only needs regular vet checkups.  However, there are some health conditions in which this breed is prone including hip dysplasia and obesity.  Feeding a healthy high-quality food and not overfeeding is important.  Fanconi syndrome, a hereditary disorder in dogs, has also been reported in the Norwegian Elkhound. Fanconi syndrome is a renal disorder that can be life threatening.  Potential owners should only purchase a Norwegian Elkhound from a reputable breeder that does not breed dogs known to have diseases or disorders.

Not known widely outside of Norway, there is also a Black Elkhound and there is also a Miniature Elkhound.  Neither is recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) at this time.

References:

THE ILLUSTRATED ENCYCLOPEDIA OF DOG BREED, by Joan Palmer, copyright 2003.

http://www.akc.org/breeds/norwegian_elkhound/index.c fm

Learn more about this author, Angie Pollock.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.