The Norwegian Elkhound is a very old breed of dog indeed dating as far back as 6000 to 7000 years ago. As hinted from its name the Norwegian Elkhound was traditionally employed to hunt elk (moose really) across most of Norway and Sweden. As game became scarcer through the 20^th century the main hunting role of the Norwegian Elkhound transformed more into show dog and watch dog.

The Norwegian Elkhound is a naturally hardy and resilient dog breed which isn’t surprising since this dog resides in the harsh, rugged region that was often knee deep with snow common to its habitat. Thus to accommodate such inhospitable environs the Norwegian Elkhound developed an exceptionally heavy outer coat with a plush, woolly undercoat offset with a luxurious neck-ruff for extra warmth and padding.

During its heyday years of moose hunting, the Norwegian Elkhound was employed in two forms of hunting. The first form known as the loshund (loose dog) was allowed to roam freely to track the scent of the game, run it down then corner it until the hunter arrived to dispatch the quarry.

The loshund  would generally hunt quietly until the quarry was cornered but if it tried to get away the dog wouldk furiously raising an alarm that would tell the hunter of its whereabouts.

The other form of hunting Norwegian Elkhound was known as the bandhund. The bandhund was kept on a leash at all times and used only to track the quarry but not to corner it. This form of hunting was favored in more open country whereas the loshund hunting form was best utilized in the heavy forest typical of the region.

Norwegian Elkhound Temperament

Combining traits from both the Spitz and Hound group of dogs the Norwegian Elkhound is naturally adventurous, independent, playful and energetic bordering to the boisterous. This dog loves the outdoors and is well equipped for even the harshest of cold weather.

Understandably in keeping with its bold and adventurous nature, this dog needs plenty of exercise on a daily basis otherwise it is prone to destructive behavior. The Norwegian Elkhound has an effortless trot which though not speedy can be sustained for hours in keeping with the manner for which this dog breed was developed; endurance not speed!

Norwegian Elkhound Health

The Norwegian Elkhound is a dog of average lifespan, 10 – 12 years and overall is a healthy dog breed. The one major health concern is CHD (canine hip dysplasia) and a number of minor health concerns such as sebaceous cysts, hot spots, renal dysplasia (kidney disease) and the very occasionally and rarely seen Fanconi syndrome.

Norwegian Elkhound Form

The Norwegian Elkhound is typically square in proportion and has pricked ears, a broad head, substantial bone structure and a tightly curled tail. It has been hypothesized that the curly tail type was selected and bred for by hunters because thus were they able to distinguish their dogs from their untamed cousins, the wolves, even from afar!

Article on Norwegian Elkhound written by Kayye Nynne