Norwegian Elkhound

The Norwegian Elkhound was the dog the Vikings used to hunt large game. It is a member of the northern Spritz type, and survives in a form very similar to what it was thousands of years ago. Categorized in the hound group, this dog was known for its ability to track and corner large game such as moose and bear, holding the prey at bay and barking until the hunter could arrive. In this capacity it worked independently by finding and tracking game for long distances, much like a coonhound or similar breed. The Norwegian Elkhound's name is a bit misleading: the term "elkhound"� comes from the Norwegian "elg hund"�, meaning "moose dog"�. This dog, like others of the Spritz type, has a thick double coat, prick ears and a tail that curls tightly over the back. The Norwegian Elkhound is always silver gray with darker points, muzzle and saddle, and occasional lighter highlights. There is a Black Norwegian Elkhound, which is recognized with some kennel clubs as a separate breed, but aside from color, conformation is the same. The long outer layer of the coat is made up of guard hairs that serve to repel dirt and wet weather, while the dense, woolly undercoat acts as insulation from the cold of winter. The Norwegian Elkhound was bred to work on the rough terrain of Norway's rugged coastline and inland mountains; it is hardy, sure-footed and always ready for hard work. The Norwegian Elkhound has a characteristically "friendly"� facial expression and keen eyes. It has an average height of 19 ½ to 20 ½ inches at the shoulder. When the Norwegian Hunters Association was formed in Norway in 1877, the breed was first exhibited to the public. It was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1913. Average lifespan for this breed is 12 to 16 years. Skeletons of this type of dog have been found in Norway which date from between 5000 and 4000 BC. Historians believe that the Norwegian Elkhound was first the companion to pre-Viking era Scandinavians, and may have been domesticated as early as the Stone Age. This breed was used for tracking and hunting small and large game, and guarding home and family, from the time before sophisticated agriculture was practiced, and when hunting and gathering was the known means of survival. Recent DNA research suggests that the Norwegian Elkhound is a close relative of a particular subspecies of the gray wolf found in Europe. In the Middle Ages, it was known as the "Dyrehund"� and was a prized hunting dog, although mostly found in Norway alone. It first came as far as England in the late 19th century, and it was officially recognized by the UK's Kennel Club in 1901. The Norwegian Elkhound is a relatively hardy breed, and usually enjoys good health. It is occasionally subject to genetic disorders common in many dog breeds which can be controlled with careful breeding. These include progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), hip and elbow dysplasia, cutaneous cysts, and hypothyroidism later in life. The Norwegian Elkhound is a breed that tends toward obesity, and the owner should take care never to overfeed. Occasionally this breed exhibits Fanconi syndrome. The coat of the Norwegian Elkhound requires regular brushing to remove dead hair and keep skin healthy. Like many Spitz-types this breed does not have a typical dog odor to its fur. It should be bathed only as needed, since its coat by its nature repels dirt. This breed is especially bred to live in cold climates. If made to live in a warmer climate, care should be taken to avoid the dog's becoming overheated. This breed does best where it has a large fenced area to exercise, and where barking will not disturb neighbors. The Norwegian Elkhound is highly intelligent, and an independent thinker. This predisposes it to a character which may be adverse to easy obedience training. For example, the Norwegian Elkhound may or may not come on command, depending on whether something more interesting is going on. The handler must be prepared to establish leadership early on with this breed, in order that training can be cooperative and successful. The Elkhound should be trained early to heel, or will tend to pull on the leash. It is an exceptionally friendly breed when it receives adequate stimulation. The Norwegian Elkhound is happiest when participating in vigorous activity with its handler, and it is always eager for a job to do. It makes a very good watchdog and guard dog, ever loyal to its home and family. It is sensitive, and expects loyalty, attention, and clear direction from its handlers, or it may develop anti-social behaviors.This breed is bred to bark excessively to alert the hunter; if not given adequate mental stimulation barking can easily become obsessive. The dog should be taught early to settle down after the initial few barks. The Norwegian Elkhound needs an enormous amount of physical and mental exercise to remain healthy and stable. Breeders recommend a minimum of two vigorous walks daily; a daily brisk walk of a few hours is the ideal. This breed was also bred to roam independently when hunting or acting as a watchdog over the homestead; without adequate fencing it will escape and wander. The Norwegian Elkhound may also be prone to digging, chewing and other forms of destructive behavior, when denied adequate exercise. This breed is a natural pack-leader and can tend to be bossy and dog-aggressive when not socialized early to other dogs and taught appropriate interaction. The Norwegian Elkhound is generally good with respectful children; it's dominant personality can predispose it to snappishness with youngsters who try to control or bully. This breed can live quite successfully with cats when raised with them. However, because of its very strong hunting drive this breed is not recommended to live with smaller animals such as hamsters, rats, guinea pigs or ferrets. The Norwegian Elkhound enjoys tracking, hunting and sled dog exercises. It will enjoy jogging or running with its owner, and long hiking expeditions. It can excel in obedience when trained cheerfully, firmly and consistently.

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