
Norwegian Elkhound |
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Description
History
An ideal elkhound has a tightly curled tail, as the dog shown in the photograph on this page. The elkhound is a medium sized dog and extremely hardy. They are bred for hunting large game, such as bear and elk. The elkhound has a very strong drive and it is not unheard of for an elkhound to go through a plate glass window when motivated by its quarry. Although the breed is strong and hardy, the dogs typically have an inseparable bond with their masters and are quite loyal. The Norwegian elkhound was presented at a dog exhibition for the first time in 1877. All Elkhounds have a sharp and piercing bark which is handy if someone breaks in.
Temperment
Norwegian Elkhounds are loyal to their "pack" and make good family dogs. Although each dog is an individual, they generally like children (or at least tolerate them) and can be very protective of those they consider part of their pack or family. This, combined with their loud voice, makes them a good watch dog. Norwegian Elkhounds can be challenging to train because of their intelligence and deep independent streak. However, they can make good obedience, agility, and particularly tracking dogs, and they are good natured in their disobedience (for example, failing to "come" because there is something of greater interest in the other direction).
Health
Norwegian Elkhounds sometimes carry a genetic predisposition to suffer from blindness, or, like many medium and large breeds, hip dysplasia, renal problems and cysts, particularly in later life. Overall, however, they are a hearty breed with few health problems.
Elkhounds are very powerful animals, bred to hunt all day in cold climates, so they require plenty of exercise to feel satisfied and stay healthy. A twenty to thirty minute walk twice a day is recommended by many breeders.
Elkhounds are prone to rapid weight gain and must not be overfed.
All text and photo listed above are available under the terms of the GNU Free Documentation License. (See Copyrights for details.)
General Information
| Living Space |
Home with Yard Access |
| Hypoallergenic |
No |
| Average Life |
10-12 years |
| Trainability |
 |
| Energy Level |
 |
| Exercise Requirements |
 |
| Affection |
 |
| Watchdog |
 |
| Friendliness with pets |
 |
| Feeding |
 |
Appearance
| Size |
Extra Small |
| Average Height |
20 inches |
| Average Weight |
48-55 pounds |
| Coat Color |
Grey with lighter undercoat |
| Grooming |
 |
Background
| Dog Group |
Hound |
| Origin |
Norway |
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