Mary Allen
Compared to other arctic dogs, elkhounds are a little less headstrong and independent. He is a typical Spitz. Its body is short, compact, and square. He has prick ears and carries his tail curled over his back.
The Norwegian Lundehund is unselfish, easy-going, even-tempered, friendly, and gentle. The characteristic of the Elkhound is its fearlessness. He approaches everything energetically and courageously. The Norwegian Elkhound is very reserved with strangers.
Norwegian Elkhound – a typical Spitz
Two different Norwegian Elkhounds are listed under this name. These are distinctive Nordic Spitz who fear neither cold, snow nor ice and are considered to be the most idiosyncratic dogs.
In addition to being trained to hunt large game, they can also be trained as sled dogs, but they also make excellent companion dogs. The characteristics of this breed have not changed significantly over the millennia, with two varieties being distinguished: the Gray and Black Norwegian Elkhound (Norsk Elghund Grä and Norsk Elghund Sort). In addition to the color of their fur, they also differ in slightly different sizes.
Appearance
This breed has a short and compact body with a typical Spitz head shape. This is characterized by a prominent stop, a straight bridge of the nose, and a muzzle that gradually narrows. The eyes are oval, medium-sized, and dark brown.
The pointed, erect ears are set high. The bushy tail, which is also set high, is carried curled over the back. The Gray Elkhound’s coat is a different shade of grey, with the belly and inside of the legs being a little lighter. The Black Elkhound has a glossy black coat with some white on the chest and legs. Both breeds have a dense, waterproof, and rather coarse coat, with long hair around the neck.
Care
Elkhound fur requires minimal grooming. A comb with double rows of metal tines is the best tool for removing loose hair, especially from the undercoat, during moulting. As with the other arctic dogs, the coat is “odour-free” and is also water and dirt-repellent.
Temperament
Dogs of this breed are considered independent, brave, and obedient. They have courage and determination, qualities that are essential when hunting large and dangerous wild prey such as bears or elk. As companion dogs, they prove to be loyal companions to humans and their own guard dogs. But you have to give the dogs a certain amount of freedom to make their own decisions.
Upbringing
Compared to other arctic dogs, elkhounds are a little less headstrong and independent. It is important that you train the dog with a firm hand, but still lovingly and, above all, treat it fairly. You can “insult” the dog for a long time by punishing him unjustly, which he finds difficult to forgive.
Compatibility
The Norwegian Elkhound is very reserved with strangers. Family acquaintances are greeted exuberantly. Some specimens are somewhat dominant over their own kind, but this is the exception rather than the rule – they usually get along well with one another. They also get along quite well with children as long as they are not teased. Elkhounds announce visitors but do not track them.
Movement
An hour’s exercise per day is the minimum amount of exercise for these dogs. You can let them run alongside your bike, for example, or even better let them romp around in the woods (which I think every dog loves – Norwegian Elkhounds are no exception). However, one must remain alert in case the dog picks up the scent of the game – otherwise, it will go hunting on its own.
History
Excavations of Stone Age finds in Scandinavia are assigned to the dog type, which resembles today’s Norwegian Elkhound, so that the roots of this breed go far back. So this dog already accompanied 1000 years BC. Nordic hunters and subsequently sailed with the Vikings on their voyages across the seas. The elkhound was primarily used to hunt deer, lynx, bear and elk. In 1935 the American Kennel Club officially recognized this breed, while the FCI did not do so until 1966. In some areas of Scandinavia, these animals are still used today as hunting dogs.