Norwegian Elkhound

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General: The Elkhound is an exceedingly versatile dog developed through constant contact with man in the pursuit of game. a typical northern hardy hunting dog with 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. The Norwegian Elkhound hunts as a bay dog able to hold moose and other big game at bay by barking and dodging attack. It has the endurance to track for long hours in all weather over rough and varied terrain.

Origin: Norway.

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History: The Dog of the Vikings used as guard on isolated farms a herder of flocks and defender from wolves and bear and a hunter. The Norwegian Elkhound comes from more than six century's of breeding with all his Nordic traits untainted, a fearless dog and friendly, devoted to man and the chase. Selected and bred for his ability to accomplish a definite purpose, the Elkhound achieved his distinctive type by natural methods. No form was imposed upon him; he was not squeezed into a preconceived standard; his structure and rare beauty, like those of the thoroughbred horse, were evolved from the tests of performance. Every physical characteristic is the expression of a need. His compactness, his muscled robustness, his squareness, his width and depth are true expression of nature's requirements for a dog that would hunt day after day, all day long, in rugged country, where stamina rather than extreme speed is called for. It should never be forgotten that from the first to last he has been at all times the peerless hunter of big game.

Temperament: A hunting dog first this breed makes a good house pet, friendly and well mannered.

Size: 45 - 60lbs

Today's Uses: You might be lucky to hear of anyone using the Elkhound in its original roles. Most are pets many are show dogs .

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