Norwegian Elkhound

Published: Last updated: by Kyle J. Larson Norwegian Elkhound

Average size and lifespan

chihuahua silhouette
great dane silhouette
Height: 1ft 6in - 1ft 8in
Weight: 48-55lbs
Lifespan: 11 - 15 Years

Behavior

  • Affection5/5
  • Kid-Friendly3/5
  • Stranger-Friendly4/5
  • Dog-Friendly3/5
  • Barking Amount3/5

Care

  • Grooming Difficulty2/5
  • Shedding Amount3/5
  • Easy to Train4/5
  • Can Be Alone3/5
  • Exercise Need4/5

Environment

  • Cold Tolerance5/5
  • Heat Tolerance3/5
  • Apartment-Friendly4/5

Norwegian Elkhound Information

Norwegian ElkhoundAmazingly, this beautiful breed is more than 5,000 years old. It originated in Norway, like the name implies, and was used to hunt bear, elk and other wild animals. The breed has a strong, hardy build and great stamina which allows him to withstand difficult weather and terrain. The Norwegian Elkhound stands out for his striking silver and grey coat with distinctive markings. As far as personality goes, he is dependable, confident and stoic with a friendly side that emerges with time. The breed thrives on exercise, so make sure he gets daily walks.

All dogs have their own personality and unique training, causing them to differ slightly from these breed stats. Please let us know if we made an error in the stats.

Breed FAQs

Can Norwegian Elkhounds be apartment dogs?

The Norwegian Elkhound does fine in apartments. They don't need lots of space, so they should adapt well to apartment living.

Can Norwegian Elkhounds be left alone?

While Norwegian Elkhounds prefer to be around their owners, they can do fairly well when left alone if necessary.

Are Norwegian Elkhounds good with kids?

Norwegian Elkhounds can do fine with kids. They need some monitoring and training so they react well to unpredictable behavior.

Are Norwegian Elkhounds friendly with strangers?

Typically, Norwegian Elkhounds are friendly with strangers. They tend to be open and willing to trust people they don't know.

Do Norwegian Elkhounds get along with other dogs?

Although Norwegian Elkhounds will mostly get along with other dogs, they may have some issues that socialization can help.

Do Norwegian Elkhounds bark a lot?

As far as dogs go, Norwegian Elkhounds bark an average amount. Expect barking to alert you, get attention, or react to strangers and other dogs.

Do Norwegian Elkhounds shed a lot?

Norwegian Elkhounds shed a medium amount. They have seasonal shedding, but they aren't terrible to clean up after.

Do Norwegian Elkhounds need a lot of grooming?

Norwegian Elkhounds don't require very much grooming. Typical maintenance and baths are enough.

Do Norwegian Elkhounds need a lot of exercise?

The Norwegian Elkhound has a good amount of energy and needs walks and play to stay happy.

Are Norwegian Elkhounds easy to train?

Typically, Norwegian Elkhounds are easy to train. They enjoy working with their owner and are quick to learn.

Can Norwegian Elkhounds handle cold weather?

If you live in a cold climate, Norwegian Elkhounds will do extremely well and may even enjoy being outside in chilly weather.

Can Norwegian Elkhounds handle hot weather?

Although Norwegian Elkhounds can tolerate hot conditions, don't expose them for too long.

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