Dog breed · Hound / Spitz
Norwegian Elkhound
An ancient spitz hunter that held moose at bay by barking and dodging. Hardy, devoted and famously talkative.
Medium12–15 yearsNorwayNeeds more space
Representative breed photography. Appearance varies within every breed.
Breed characteristics
- Group
- Hound / Spitz
- Origin
- Norway
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 20–25 kg
- Height
- 46–52 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Thick, weatherproof grey double coat
- Temperament
- BoldLoyalIndependentVocal
History
Hunted with Scandinavian peoples for thousands of years; remains found alongside Viking-age burials.
Appearance
Compact, square grey spitz with a tightly curled tail, pricked ears and a black-tipped silver coat.
Exercise and activity
90 minutes daily; loves cold-weather hiking and pulling sports.
Care and grooming
The dense coat sheds heavily twice a year; weekly brushing otherwise. Heat-sensitive.
Health considerations
- Hip dysplasia
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Kidney disease (Fanconi-type, occasional)