Puget Sound Norwegian Elkhound Association
About Elkhounds
The Norwegian Elkhound
Per the AKC written breed standard.. "A hardy gray hunting dog. In appearance, a typical northern dog of medium size and substance, square in profile, close coupled and balanced in proportions. The head is broad with prick ears, and the tail is tightly curled and carried over the back. The distinctive gray coat is dense and smooth lying. As a hunter, the Norwegian Elkhound has the courage, agility and stamina to hold moose and other big game at bay by barking and dodging attack, and the endurance to track for long hours in all weather over rough and varied terrain."
Size : Males range from 50-55 lbs and stand about 20.5 inches tall at the withers.
Females range from 40-48 lbs and stand about 19.5 inches at the withers.
This is a double coated breed that does blow coat twice a year. Up keep is quite easy, brush weekly with either a pin or slicker brush, trim nails once a week and bathe once a month or when dirty. The breed is considered odorless and doesn't tend to have a "doggy" smell.
Elkhounds are very intelligent while remaining independent minded. With a firm yet gentle hand, an elkhound is quick to learn new things and thrive in a home that likes to keep their brains active. Moderate energy levels, can go on long beach walks, hikes, herd live stock but must also have a good off switch and be content laying at their families feet or in front of a fire.
Life expectancy in elkhounds is quite long ranging from 12-15 years of age.
Temperament of the breed is meant to be bold, alert, intelligent, friendly.
health issues we see are hip dysplasia, glaucoma, and sebaceous cysts.
When looking for a reputable Elkhound breeder, we recommend looking on the parent club's breeder directory. Link to the NEAA site is below.
Useful Links
American Kennel Club written breed standard.
https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/NorwegianElkhound.pdf
Parent Club Website.
Orthopaedic Foundation for Animals Elkhound breed related health testing information.
https://ofa.org/chic-programs/browse-by-breed/?breed=NE