

These dogs are strong-willed, bold, and fearless. Their hunting background has them more prone to barking than some other breeds. They do make great watchdogs for this reason. They tend to be more aloof and wary of strangers, and even a bit territorial. These dogs form tight bonds with their people and are very loyal and affectionate with their families. This dog is so independent that they will learn to think and make decisions for themselves, even at the opposition of their owners. The Norwegian Elkhound is of high intelligence. Image Credit: Maxim_ka, Shutterstock Temperament & Intelligence of the Norwegian Elkhound They are versatile and have also taken on roles as guard dogs and herding dogs. Norweigan Elkhounds are most famous for hunting down elk and moose but have even been used to hunt badgers, lynx, mountain lions, bears, wolves, caribou, and rabbits.

Their Hunting Abilities Go Beyond Elk and Moose Archeologists have even found skeletons resembling the Norwegian Elkhound buried next to Viking remains and their weapons. Norwegian Elkhounds are estimated to have a history that dates to 5,000 B.C. They were officially recognized with the American Kennel Club in 1913. 3 Little-Known Facts About the Norwegian Elkhound 1. They do make excellent watchdogs, as they remain on high alert and can be territorial. Norwegian Elkhounds are not well-suited for apartment living due to their activity needs and barking tendencies. They also need a lot of exercises and would work best with an active outdoorsy owner or family. They are not the easiest to train and may not be the best choice for novice dog owners. These dogs are very independent, bold, and strong-willed. Those living in warmer climates need to keep this in mind and ensure they have a cool environment and are not overexposed to excessive heat. Norwegian Elkhounds are made for the cold, rugged outdoors of Norway and will be happiest in the colder climates they are naturally built for. Different dog breeds have different characteristics that may not be compatible with all owners. Finding the right dog for your lifestyle is essential. You need to ensure you are prepared for the financial commitment and have the time and patience to take proper care of a dog. Norwegian Elkhound Puppies – Before You Buy…īringing home a new dog is a serious commitment. This breed will have a drive for adventure and need an active, outdoorsy family that can stimulate them both physically and mentally. Norwegian Elkhounds are affectionate and loyal with their owners but may be aloof with others. They have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years and are generally healthy. When they are born, puppies will have black coats but as they develop, they will turn gray and silver with black tips on the outer coat while maintaining a light undercoat.

The Norwegian Elkhound is a hardy, medium-sized dog that weighs between 45 and 55 pounds and stands 19 to 21 inches in height. Originally bred for hunting large game and herding and protecting flocks of livestock this sturdy dog is built for cold temperatures and rough terrain. The bold, playful, strong-willed Norwegian Elkhound is a beautiful dog breed that is native to Norway. If you would like to apply to the Rescue Fund to offer a home, please click onto Rescue Application details.Loyal, strong-willed, playful, bold, affectionate If you have had an Elkhound returned that you have bred, please visit our web page "assistance to breeders".Īll our homes are carefully checked as we try our best to ensure a good match between Elkhound and new owner. If you do not know the name of the breeder or they are unable to assist, please contact any of the fund Trustees, who will make necessary arrangements. If you have an Elkhound you are no longer able to care for, you should initially contact the breeder. Some of our dogs are placed in kennels first, some are fostered with an experienced family and some will be homed direct from previous owners. Micro-chipping is also available.Īll Elkhounds offered for re-homing are assessed as thoroughly as possible, so we can give new owners the information needed. We do not operate a first come first served system but try to ensure that each Elkhound is placed in a home most suitable for their individual needs.Īll Elkhounds will be vaccinated and wormed, some will be Vet checked and most will be neutered before they are placed or re-homed with neutering as part of the contract. We are always happy to hear from potential rescue owners. This organisation is based in the U.K and offers its services to Elkhounds and owners who are resident in England, Wales. We aim to provide loving permanent homes for Elkhounds whose owners can no longer keep them. The Elkhound Rescue Fund - Charity Number 1124245
