Norwegian Elkhound

The Norwegian Elkhound is a very old breed from Norway, used to track moose and hold them at bay by barking until the hunter arrived.

Dogs of this type are associated with the Viking era.

Confident, cheerful and independent, it is affectionate with its family and good with children. It is watchful and barks readily.

Intelligent but stubborn, it needs consistent, varied training.

Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism and some skin cysts should be monitored.

Regular veterinary follow-up is recommended.

It is food-loving and gains weight easily, so measure portions.

Food matched to its real activity is essential.

It needs one to two hours of daily activity, ideally in nature and in cool weather.

Keep it on a lead outside safe areas.

Mountain regions suit it better. It needs a house with a garden and active owners.

Its thick double coat needs brushing once or twice a week, far more during moults.

Do not shave it.