Ready to learn about a dog breed that's as cool as a cucumber and as tough as nails? Meet the Norwegian Elkhound, a loyal and sturdy pooch with a history as rugged as the Norwegian landscape. Let's dive into what makes this breed so special and why you might want one snoozing on your sofa.

Norwegian Elkhound Basics

Average Lifespan: 12-15 years

Average Weight: 22-25 kg

Average Height: 50-52 cm

Colouring: Grey with black-tipped guard hairs

Trainability: Smart but a bit stubborn

Exercise Needs: High, lots of physical activity needed

Shedding: Heavy seasonal shedding

Origins of the Norwegian Elkhound

The Norwegian Elkhound is as old as the hills, dating back to Viking times. These dogs were bred to hunt large game like moose and elk. Picture a Viking warrior, but with fur and a wagging tail. They were also used as herders and guards. Known as Norway’s national dog, they've got a pedigree that's hard to beat.

What Do Norwegian Elkhounds Look Like?

Norwegian Elkhounds are medium-sized, sturdy dogs with a coat built for the arctic. Their dense, double coat is grey with black tips, perfect for blending into the Norwegian wilderness.

They've got a classic look with a facial mask, pointy ears, and a curly tail that sits proudly over their back. Their eyes are dark and full of mischief, ready for any adventure that comes their way.

Norwegian Elkhound Personality

Norwegian Elkhounds are the life of the party – loyal, protective, and full of beans. They’re great with families and have a soft spot for kids. But don’t be fooled by their playful nature, they can be a bit independent and like to do things their own way.

Training can be a bit like herding cats, but with patience and consistency, they’ll come around. Their friendly disposition makes them brilliant family pets and trusty watchdogs.

What Health Problems Are Norwegian Elkhounds Prone To?

Like all breeds, Norwegian Elkhounds have their quirks. They can be prone to hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and hypothyroidism. Regular vet visits, a balanced diet, and proper exercise can keep them in tip-top shape. Keep an eye on their weight to prevent obesity, which can be a real pain in the tail for their joints.

Do Norwegian Elkhounds Bark A Lot?

Barking is in their DNA. They were bred to alert hunters, so they’ve got a bit of a loudmouth streak. Think of them as the neighbourhood watch with fur. Early socialisation and training can help keep the barking to a minimum. Teach them when to speak up and when to keep it down – it's all about balance.

Norwegian Elkhound Feeding Requirements

Feeding a Norwegian Elkhound is like fuelling a little sports car. They need high-quality dog food packed with protein to keep up with their active lifestyle. Monitor their food intake and adjust portions based on their activity level. Always have fresh water available and go easy on the treats to avoid turning them into a little chubster.

Training Tips for Norwegian Elkhounds

Training your Norwegian Elkhound can be a rewarding experience if you know the right tricks. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Start Early: Begin training your Elkhound as a puppy. Early socialisation and training help shape a well-behaved adult dog.
2. Be Consistent: Use consistent commands and rules. Elkhounds are smart and will pick up on what’s expected if the rules don’t change.
3. Positive Reinforcement: Reward good behaviour with treats, praise, and playtime. Avoid harsh corrections as they can be counterproductive.
4. Short and Sweet Sessions: Keep training sessions short and engaging. Long sessions can lead to boredom and frustration.
5. Mental Stimulation: Elkhounds are intelligent and need mental challenges. Incorporate puzzle toys and interactive games into their routine.
6. Exercise, Exercise, Exercise: A tired dog is a well-behaved dog. Make sure your Elkhound gets plenty of physical activity to burn off excess energy.
7. Socialisation: Expose your Elkhound to different people, places, and situations. This helps them become well-rounded and less anxious.

Scrumbles, the Pawfect Food for Norwegian Elkhounds

Our food is a fab choice for Norwegian Elkhounds, made with natural ingredients that keep your dog healthy and happy. Here's why you and your pooch will love Scrumbles:

• Packed with up to 70% meat for the protein your pup needs to thrive
• Added pre or probiotics for smooth and healthy digestion
• Hypoallergenic, free from gluten, soy, dairy, egg, and red meat
• Grain-free options for sensitive tummies
• Variety of tasty flavours like duck, chicken, turkey, and salmon
• Loved by fussy eaters, with over 10k five-star reviews

Why not give us a try? Your Norwegian Elkhound will be licking their bowl clean and begging for more in no time. With Scrumbles, you’re not just feeding your dog – you’re giving them the best.

Is a Norwegian Elkhound Right for You?

Norwegian Elkhounds are cracking companions if you’ve got the energy to keep up with them. They need lots of exercise and mental stimulation, so if you're a couch potato, this might not be the breed for you. They’re great with kids and make excellent watchdogs. Just be ready for some barking and a whole lot of shedding. If you can handle the quirks, you'll have a loyal friend for life.

Whilst you are here why not read 

1. Irish Wolfhound Breed Guide

2. Great Swiss Mountain Dog Breed Guide

3. New Puppy Bible