Norwegian Elkhound

Appearance

Build: medium, sturdy and squarely built
Weight: 45-60 pounds (18-27 kg)
Height: 18-21 inches (46-53 cm)
Coat: coarse, straight, with soft undercoat
Colour: black and white colouring, often noted as grey or silver
Head: Broad and wedge-shaped colouring with a defined stop
Teeth: scissors bite
Eyes: dark brown with a keen, friendly expression
Ears: pointed, erect
Tail: rolled tightly back
Limbs: straight and parallel
Life span: 12-16 years

The dog stands about 45-52 cm (20.5″) high and weighs up to 24 kg (52 lbs). Its grey, white, and black coat is made up of two layers: an underlying dense smooth coat ranging from black at the muzzle, ears, and tip of its tail; to silvery grey on its legs, tail, and underbody; and an overlying black-tipped protective guard coat along its back. An ideal Elkhound has a tightly curled tail, as the dog shown in the photograph on this page. The Elkhound is a medium-sized dog and extremely hardy.

Temperament

Norwegian Elkhounds are bred for hunting large game, such as wolf, bear and moose. Although the breed is strong and hardy, the dogs typically have an inseparable bond with their masters and are quite loyal. All Elkhounds have a sharp loud bark which makes them suitable as watchdog.

Norwegian Elkhounds are loyal to their “pack” and make excellent family dogs if given proper attention. It is bold, playful, independent, alert, extremely intelligent, and, at times, a bit boisterous.

This is a dog ready for adventure and is happiest if that adventure takes place outdoors in cold weather. It needs daily exercise, lest it become frustrated or even destructive. It is an exceptionally friendly breed. If untrained, it tends to pull when on leash. This dog needs attention for it to understand its place within the family (or the pack), else it may develop social problems and feel neglected. This is a very proud and noble breed that can easily have its feelings hurt if its owner deserts his or her allegiance or duty. An inevitable bond will develop between the dog’s family, master, or pack, and if there is disloyalty, the dog will definitely feel it and be hurt. Although each dog is an individual, they generally are very gentle and get along great with children. They are happiest when they feel that they are part of the family. This, combined with their very loud bark, makes them a good watchdog.

For more information please click on: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norwegian_Elkhound

Other interesting sites include: http://www.necgb.co.uk/
http://www.elkhound-rescue.org.uk/