| General Information |
| Group(s):
Hounds, Sighthound |
Height: 19-21 inches |
| Weight: 40-55 pounds |
Longevity: low teens |
| Colors: Gray of various shades with black tips. Any white or spectacles is undesirable. |
Coat type: Coarse straight outer coat with dense, soft undercoat. Short and smooth over head, ears and legs. |
| Recognized Registries: FCI, TKC, CKC, ANKC, AKC, NCA, UKC and others |
| Overall Appearance: Powerful spitz type dog with square outline and compact body. Distinctive coat suitable for harsh weather. |
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| Personaility - Behavior - Training |
| Energy Level: moderate to high |
| General Nature: |
Friendly, intelligent and bold with some independence. |
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with Children: Generally good but requires socialization, proper supervision and well mannered children |
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with other pets: variable depending on the pets and socialization |
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with dogs: generally good |
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| Socialization requirements: Moderate: Without proper socialization they can be shy or even aggressive. The general nature is excellent. |
| Ideal home characteristics: One that appreciates the active nature and upbeat attitude of this dog. Also keeping in mind their independent nature is critical. |
| Temperament Notes: Friendly, intelligent, independent, active and enthusiastic. |
| Training requirement: moderate: socialization and basic manners as well as some ongoing activity |
| Trainer notes: The Norwegian Elkhound is a bit unlike all other spitz breeds and even hound breeds in that its original nature is to work closely with people. This makes them well qualified as exceptional training partners. Fair and fun training techniques are important since the bold and independent nature of this dog becomes apparent with anything akin to unfair handling. |
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| Background Information |
| Year range of first recognition: 4,000-5,000 BC based on fossils found. |
| Country of Origin: Norway |
| Original Function: Hunting moose, elk and bear. |
| History: Apparently in Norway before the Vikings, the Norwegian Elkhound was a valued companion for his hunting prowess as well as general skills retrieving and herding. |
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| Adoption Information |
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| Deviations from Standard: |
| Health Notes: hip dysplasia, eye problems, renal disease |
| Health Testing: OFA, CERF |
| Questions to ask Breeder: http://www.digitaldog.com/breeder_questions.html - The Breeder Questions as listed here provided with explanations and answers you will want to be looking for!
How long have you had Norwegian Elkhounds?
Why do you have Norwegian Elkhounds (show, performance, etc.)?
What do you consider to be the most important single characteristic of a Norwegian Elkhound?
What health issues have you seen in the breed?
What criteria do you set for your breeding stock?
Do you plan to keep a puppy from this litter?
How often do you have puppies?
Do you have a written contract and puppy guarantee?
At what age do you sent your pups to their homes?
How would you describe the ideal Norwegian Elkhound?
How would you describe the ideal Norwegian Elkhound home?
Are your puppies whelped in your home?
What advice would you offer someone in raising and training a Norwegian Elkhound?
How do you assist or help Norwegian Elkhounds in need of rescue?
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| Web Sites: http://elkhoundrescue.org/ - Norwegian Elkhound Rescue
http://www.necpv.org/rescue.htm - Norwegian Elkhound Club of Potomac Valley Rescue
http://www.neaa.net/rescue.shtml - Norwegian Elkhound Association of America Rescue Information
http://www.moosedog.net/ - Moosedog Norwegian Elkhound Rescue |
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| Other Resources |
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