Norwegian Elkhound
Description
The Norwegian Elkhound is a sturdy, medium-sized dog with a rich history stretching back thousands of years in Norway. Originally bred for hunting large game like elk and bear, this breed has a dense double coat that protects it from harsh Scandinavian climates. Their coat colors range from black and gray to silver and black, often with striking contrasts but no specific patterns. They’re known for their loud bark, which hunters once relied on to track them during hunts. Elkhounds are outgoing and friendly dogs that bond closely with their families. They’re quick learners but can show a stubborn streak, so consistent training is key. With a strong prey drive, they might chase smaller animals, so supervision outdoors is important. These dogs thrive on both physical exercise and mental challenges to stay balanced and happy.
Grooming
The Norwegian Elkhound’s medium double coat requires regular upkeep to keep it healthy and manageable. Brush your Elkhound three times a week to prevent mats and remove loose hair, increasing frequency during heavy shedding seasons in spring and fall. Using an undercoat rake is essential to pull out the dense dead undercoat that builds up beneath the top layer. Bathing every 4 to 6 weeks helps keep the coat clean, but always follow with a blow-dry to loosen dead hair and speed drying. - Brush 3× weekly; daily during heavy shedding - Use an undercoat rake to remove dead hair - Bathe every 4–6 weeks, then blow-dry thoroughly - Focus on the neck, chest, and tail areas where shedding is heaviest Pro tip: Blow-drying after baths not only dries the coat but also helps lift and remove loose undercoat, reducing shedding around the house.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
Norwegian Elkhounds need about 100 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to keep them mentally and physically satisfied. Their hunting background means they enjoy exploring scents and can get vocal if bored, so varied routes and sniff breaks are beneficial. A typical routine might include a brisk 50-minute morning walk with some off-leash time in a secure area, followed by a 50-minute evening stroll focusing on leash training and scent games. Example routine: - Morning: 50 minutes of brisk walking and scent exploration off-leash - Evening: 50 minutes of leash walking with obedience drills and sniff breaks This breed thrives on consistent exercise that challenges both body and mind, preventing boredom and excessive barking.
Boarding
When boarding a Norwegian Elkhound, provide a crate sized between 42 and 48 inches to accommodate their medium build comfortably. They’re active dogs that need two play sessions daily, combining physical activity with scent or brain games to keep them engaged. Avoid small-animal toys, as their prey drive might trigger chasing or chewing. Secure fencing is a must to prevent escapes, given their curious and energetic nature. Staff should note the breed’s vocal tendencies and provide enrichment to reduce stress and barking. Regular interaction and mental stimulation help keep them calm and happy during their stay. This breed appreciates routine, so maintaining consistent feeding and walking schedules will ease their adjustment to boarding life.