<C>Availability:</C> May take some effort to find.
<b>History:</> One of the most ancient breeds, a skeleton similar to today's Norwegian Elkhound has been found dating from 4000 to 5000 BC. Historically, the dog was used in Scandinavia as a hunter of big game, especially moose ("Elg" in Norwegian). The dog can scent game from a distance of several kilometers. He tracks the quarry and attracts its attention by barking. Then he holds the animal at bay until the hunter arrives to make the kill. Over the centuries, Elkhounds have also successfully hunted badger, lynx, mountain lion, bear, wolf, reindeer and even rabbit. The Elkhound is particularly well-suited to badger hunting since he works better at night than in the daytime. In more recent times, the friendly and reliable character of the Elkhound has helped win him a place in many homes as a cherished family pet.
<b>Description:</> A hardy, medium sized Spitz-type dog, sturdy and squarely built with the stamina to hunt all day long for many days at a time. The stand-off double coat has a distinctive gray color. The tail curls tightly over the back. The head is broad and wedge shaped, with a defined stop. The pointed prick ears are very mobile. The eyes are dark brown and friendly, with a keen expression. The teeth should meet in a scissors bite. The body is relatively short and most of the length should be in the ribcage. The chest should be deep and relatively wide. The forelegs are straight and parallel to each other. The paws are small and tight with thick pads. The Norwegian Elkhound has no doggy odor.
<b>Notes:</> The Norwegian Elkhound has a very independant temperament, and may be somewhat resistant to obedience training. Puppies need firm but gentle discipline. Do not overfeed this dog, as the breed gains weight quickly. Since they have been bred to hold prey at bay, barking constantly until the hunter arrives, some Norwegian Elkhounds bark a great deal. The breed also has a tendency to roam. It is best to pair sled dogs in teams of one male and one female, as males have a tendency to fight if harnessed together. May also be aggressive with same-sex dogs in the household. Some sources say Elkhounds are usually good with non-canine pets, other sources say they shouldn't be trusted. Use caution.
<b>Personality:</> Fearless and friendly; a reliable, energetic and alert companion for children and a sensible guard. A clean and docile dog with an outstanding character. Affectionate and loyal, engaging and sensitive. Dignified and independant.
<b>Behavior:</>
<C>Children:</C> Excellent with children.
<C>Friendliness:</C> Fairly friendly with strangers.
<C>Trainability:</C> somewhat difficult to train.
<C>Independence:</C> Fairly independent.
<C>Dominance:</C> High.
<C>Other Pets:</C> May be aggressive with dogs of the same sex; do not trust with non-canine pets.
<C>Combativeness:</C> Can be a bit dog-aggressive.
<C>Noise:</C> Likes to bark.
<b>Grooming and Physical Needs:</>
<C>Grooming:</C> Regular grooming needed.
<C>Trimming & Stripping:</C> No trimming or stripping needed.
<C>Coat:</C> Fluffy coat.
<C>Shedding:</C> Seasonally heavy shedder.
<C>Exercise:</C> Needs lots of exercise.
<C>Jogging:</C> An excellent jogging companion.
<C>Indoors:</C> Fairly active indoors.
<C>Apartments:</C> Will be OK in an apartment if sufficiently exercised.
<C>Outdoor Space:</C> Best with a large yard.
<C>Climate:</C> Prefers cool climates.
<C>Owner:</C> Good for novice owners.
<C>Longevity:</C> Moderately long lived (12 to 15 years).
<b>Talents:</> hunting, tracking, herding, watchdog, guarding, sledding, and agility.
<b>For More Information:</>
Call the AKC Breeder Referral Hotline: 1-900-407-PUPS for the name of a breeder referral representative in your area. Cost is 99 cents per minute.
<b>Photo Caption:</> NORWEGIAN ELKHOUND
Photo copyright: Cook PhoDOGraphy 1995. All rights reserved.
