Norwegian Elkhound Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Norwegian Elkhound is a sturdy, compact Nordic hunting dog with a thick silver-gray double coat and a tightly curled tail. It was bred to track and hold moose at bay, and it is bold, loyal and independent.

Origins and appearance

The breed is ancient and has been found in Scandinavian archaeological sites, where similar dogs lived with hunters. Elkhounds are medium-sized and square, with a wedge-shaped head, upright ears, a dense, weather-resistant coat in shades of gray with black-tipped hairs and a tail that curls over the back.

Temperament

They are bold, loyal and alert. They bond closely with family and are usually good with children. They can be reserved with strangers and dominant with other dogs. They are independent and vocal. They dislike being left alone.

Exercise

They need an hour or more of daily exercise, with brisk walks, hiking and play. They enjoy cold weather. Secure fencing is important, since they follow scents and may chase wildlife.

Training

They are intelligent but independent. Use positive methods, consistency and early socialization. Do not expect a perfect recall. Keep sessions short and varied. See recall training guide.

Coat and grooming

The dense coat sheds heavily and needs brushing several times a week, daily during shedding seasons. See double coat dog grooming guide. Do not shave the coat. Clean ears, trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Kidney disease. See kidney disease in dogs
• Progressive retinal atrophy, with eye exams
• Hypothyroidism. See hypothyroidism in dogs
• Skin conditions. See dog skin allergies
• Obesity. See obesity risks in dogs

Living with a Norwegian Elkhound

They suit active families with a secure yard and tolerance for noise and shedding. They do best with company. They are poorly suited to hot climates or long hours alone.

A typical day

An Elkhound wants a morning outing, training, a rest, play and an evening walk. Many are calm indoors once exercised.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are bold and curious. Begin socialization, handling and training. Provide chew toys, and avoid heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food, grooming tools and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They thrive in cold weather but overheat easily. Provide shade, water and cool resting places. They travel well when exercised.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include shaving the coat, trusting the dog off lead, underexercising and leaving the dog alone.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip, eye and kidney screening and the parents' temperaments. Meet the parents and see how they live.

Holding a moose at bay

Elkhounds hunted by tracking a moose and then circling and barking until the hunter arrived. The dog does not attack, but stays out of reach and keeps the animal in place. That job explains the breed's stamina, bark and nerve.

A Viking legend

The Elkhound is often associated with Norse history and folklore, and some writers link the breed to Viking ships, though details are hard to confirm. What is clearer is that dogs of this type lived with Scandinavian hunters for thousands of years.

Daily care checklist

• A brisk walk or hike, with a long line where needed.
• Brushing the double coat, daily in shedding season.
• Training or scent games.
• Ear checks and teeth brushing.
• Company and a cool place to rest.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Norwegian Elkhound suits active owners who want a bold, loyal Nordic dog and accept shedding and barking. It may not suit hot climates or those wanting an off-lead dog. For another Nordic breed, see the Finnish Spitz.

The takeaway

Norwegian Elkhounds are bold, loyal and thickly coated, and they need exercise, grooming and company.