Description:

The Norwegian Elkhound is courageous, independent, and playful breed that displays a boisterous and bold attitude. Elkhound's are a husky member of the Hound group which shows signs of spitz-like traits, that combined a hound. A dog breed with a high level of energy that's always waiting for that next adventure in the great outdoors.

History Of The Norwegian Elkhound:

The roots of the Norwegian Elkhound can at times be confused, which is mostly down to its origins being tied to the Spitz dogs, although its been categorized in the Hound group. However, the physical charastics of Norwegian Elkhound do resemble that of the Spitz.

Norwegian Elkhound's have been able to establish themselves as highly-rated scent hounds, with an ability to track down large game. Also able to function as trusted herders, protectors, and guard dogs. Through the test of time the Elkhound has been able perform a multitude of jobs on the roughest of terrains, the coldest of climates, and some of the most difficult ice-filled mountain ranges.

In all, its revered function is that of hunting Elk, as recorded by the breeds name. The duties of the Norwegian Elkhound isn't to make the actual kill, but to locate and trap the animal until its master arrived. The breed made its way to England and the US at some stage in the late 1800's, and was later recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1930.

Norwegian Elkhound Temperament:

This is a breed that has a natural instinct to hunt game, and was bred to endure in all wintery climate conditions. The Norwegian Elkhound will be in need of a master that's able to offer ample exercise time and access to outside running areas. Jogging, hunting, and running are all perfect ways to exercise this breed. These dogs are blessed with an abundance of energy and are unable to cope in confined areas, such as a small apartment.

Care:

A Norwegian Elkhound is able to live outdoor if preferred, although this breed isn't so tolerant with warmer temperatures, due to thick, heavy coat. Grooming for this dog consist of a good brushing once or twice per week. Throughout the shedding season a brush on a daily occasion will be more appropriate.

Health Information:

Health concerns seen with the Norwegian Elkhound include CHD, sebaceous cysts, renal dysplasia (kidney disease), and hot spots, with patellar luxation, with PRA, patellar luxation, Fanconi syndrome, and intracutaneous cornifying epithelioma seen rarely. Vets recommend that this breed is checked for Fanconi, hip, and eye related problems.

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