Norwegian Elkhound
Updated August 11, 2025
Norwegian Elkhound
Updated August 11, 2025
The Norwegian Elkhound is a robust and ancient breed, famed for its history as a Viking hunting companion. They are friendly, confident, and dependable dogs that excel as family protectors and active partners. While independent, they are deeply loyal and thrive on being an integral part of their human pack.
Bold, Loyal, Independent, Energetic, Reliable
48-60 pounds
19-21 inches
12-15 years
Gray, Black
At a Glance
Maintenance Level
Friendliness
Energy Level
Good with Kids
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About Norwegian Elkhound
The Norwegian Elkhound is a robust and ancient breed, famed for its history as a Viking hunting companion. They are friendly, confident, and dependable dogs that excel as family protectors and active partners. While independent, they are deeply loyal and thrive on being an integral part of their human pack.
What Makes Norwegian Elkhounds Special
The Norwegian Elkhound embodies the spirit of a Viking: bold, courageous, and loyal, with a dignified yet friendly presence.
They are hardy, all-purpose dogs, historically serving as hunters, guardians, and herders. Their intelligence and protective instincts make them superb watchdogs and devoted family members.
With a striking silver-gray coat and an inquisitive, energetic nature, the Elkhound is a steadfast companion for active individuals and families.
Norwegian Elkhound History & Origin
The Norwegian Elkhound is an ancient breed with skeletons of similar dogs found dating back to 4000-5000 BC. These dogs accompanied the Vikings, serving as hunters of large game like elk (moose), bear, and reindeer, as well as guardians of the homestead.
The name 'Elkhound' is a slight mis-translation of the Norwegian 'Elghund,' which means 'moose dog'.
The breed was first exhibited at a dog show in Norway in 1877, establishing its presence in the modern dog world.
It is the national dog of Norway and has been a prized companion and hunter in Scandinavia for millennia.
President Herbert Hoover owned a Norwegian Elkhound named 'Weegie,' which helped increase the breed's visibility in the United States.
A reputable breeder may charge between $1,500 and $2,500 for a Norwegian Elkhound puppy. Adoption is also an option through breed-specific rescues.
Norwegian Elkhound Characteristics
Individual Variation
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Norwegian Elkhound Appearance
The Norwegian Elkhound is a medium-sized, square-profiled Spitz-type dog, presenting a picture of a hardy and athletic northern breed.
Their distinctive gray double coat, prick ears, and tightly curled tail create a powerful and alert appearance.
They carry themselves with a confident and proud demeanor, always ready for action.
Physical Features
Ears
The Elkhound's ears are high-set, erect, and pointed, giving them an alert look. They are very mobile and turn to catch sounds.
Eyes
Their eyes are dark brown and oval-shaped, expressing a keen, friendly, and fearless intelligence.
Nose
The nose is black, complementing the dark muzzle and ears.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
They have a medium-length, thick double coat. The undercoat is soft and woolly, while the outer coat is coarse and weather-resistant.
Coat Color
The standard color is medium gray with black-tipped guard hairs, creating the characteristic silver-gray hue. The undercoat, legs, and stomach are a lighter silver. The muzzle, ears, and tail tip are black.
Tail
The tail is set high and curls tightly over the back, a hallmark of Spitz-type breeds.
Norwegian Elkhound Temperament
A dog of the Vikings, the Norwegian Elkhound is a fearless and robust Spitz-type breed.
Known for their dependable and friendly nature, they are deeply loyal to their family but can be reserved with strangers, making them excellent watchdogs.
Their history as hunters of large game like moose (or 'elg' in Norwegian) has instilled in them a bold and independent spirit.
While intelligent and trainable, their independence can sometimes pose a challenge, requiring a patient and consistent owner.
They are energetic and playful, thriving in an active household where they can be part of family adventures.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Norwegian Elkhounds are generally a robust and healthy breed with a life expectancy of 12-15 years. Responsible breeders screen for genetic conditions to maintain the breed's health. Awareness of potential health issues is key for proactive care.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, consistent exercise, and genetic screening are vital for a long, healthy life.
How to Care for a Norwegian Elkhound
Norwegian Elkhounds are hardy and robust dogs but have significant needs for exercise, grooming, and companionship. They are best suited for active owners who can provide firm, consistent training and plenty of physical and mental stimulation.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
A home with a securely fenced yard is strongly recommended.
Climate Adaptability
Well-suited for colder climates; can overheat in high temperatures.
Apartment Living
Not ideal for apartment living due to high energy and barking.
Best Suited For
Perfect for active owners and families who love the outdoors.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Early socialization with various people, sounds, and other animals is critical. Begin obedience training early.
Senior Care
Adjust exercise to accommodate joint health, monitor weight, and schedule more frequent vet check-ups.
First-Time Owner Tips
Can be challenging for first-time owners due to their intelligence, independence, and high energy needs.