Is the Elkhound a good family dog?
Elkhound
Elkhounds are sturdy and confident medium-sized dogs with a thick grey double coat, curled tail and alert, fox-like expression. Originally bred in Scandinavia for hunting large game such as elk and moose, they are known for their courage, endurance and strong watchdog instincts. Generally loyal and affectionate with their family, Elkhounds can be independent, vocal and wary of strangers, so they benefit from early socialisation, consistent training and regular exercise.
| Recommended for | Active, confident owners who can manage an independent, vocal watchdog with regular exercise and socialisation. |
| Breed Classification | Hound/Spitz Group |
| Other names | Norwegian Elkhound |
| Lifespan | 12 to 15 years |
| Size | Medium |
| Temperament | Bold, loyal, alert and independent |
| Intelligence | Generally intelligent; best results come from patient, positive and consistent training |
| Tendency to bark | High; strong alert bark |
| Maintenance Level | Brush weekly, heavily during shedding |
| Health Risk | Elkhounds are generally robust when well bred and well cared for, but they can still be affected by recognised breed-related conditions that should be discussed with a vet or breeder. |
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Explore the Top 5 health issues claimed for Elkhounds, including highest claims paid and how much pet insurance could help you save on eligible vet bills.
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Elkhound personality and temperament
The Elkhound is confident, energetic and independent, with a bold temperament and strong hunting heritage. Originally used to track large game, it is courageous, alert and naturally watchful.
With family, the Elkhound is usually loyal, affectionate and playful, but it can also be vocal and strong-willed. It needs regular exercise, early socialisation and consistent training to manage its independence and watchdog tendencies.
Elkhounds with kids and other pets
Elkhounds can be loyal, playful and affectionate with children, especially in active families that can meet their exercise needs. They are sturdy and confident, but can also be vocal and strong-willed, so supervision and training are important.
With other pets, Elkhounds can do well with dogs when socialised early, but they may be assertive or independent. Their hunting instincts can make them inclined to chase cats or smaller animals, so careful introductions and secure management are recommended.
Elkhound training and exercise
Elkhounds need regular exercise and enjoy brisk walks, hiking, play and outdoor activity in secure areas. They are sturdy, energetic dogs with hunting heritage, so they benefit from both physical movement and scent-based mental enrichment.
Training should be consistent, patient and positive. Elkhounds are intelligent but independent and can be vocal, so early training should focus on recall, barking control, lead manners and socialisation. They respond best to owners who are firm but fair and keep sessions engaging.
| Energy level | High |
| Exercise requirements | High - daily walks, hikes and scent games |
Common health issues for Elkhounds
What do Elkhound owners claim for the most?
- Hip dysplasia: A developmental condition where the hip joint forms abnormally, causing looseness, pain and reduced mobility. Genetics are a major factor, while rapid growth, excess weight and inappropriate exercise can worsen symptoms. Early diagnosis, weight control and veterinary care can help manage the condition.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy: An inherited eye disease where the retina gradually deteriorates, usually first causing night blindness and then progressive vision loss. It is generally not painful, but it can eventually lead to complete blindness.
- Fanconi-like kidney issues: Fanconi-like kidney issues is a recognised concern reported in the breed or in similar dogs. Owners should ask breeders about relevant screening, discuss warning signs with their vet and seek advice early if symptoms appear.
- Cysts: Cysts are sac-like lumps under or within the skin that may contain fluid, keratin, sebum or other material, and are often benign. They may appear as raised bumps that can rupture, discharge material, become inflamed, infected or irritated by licking and scratching.
- Weight gain: This typically occurs when calorie intake exceeds energy use, often due to overfeeding, too many treats, reduced exercise, ageing, neutering or underlying disease. Excess weight can reduce mobility and increase the risk of arthritis, diabetes, breathing problems and other health issues.
Not all conditions are covered by Pet Insurance. For details of Bow Wow Meow Pet Insurance cover, refer to the Product Disclosure Statement.
How to choose the right insurance for your Elkhound
When comparing cover for your Elkhound, look for:
Cover for common Elkhound conditions:
Check that the policy covers conditions Elkhounds can be prone to, including common health issues.
Cover for hereditary conditions:
No exclusions for hereditary or congenital conditions⑅.
Flexible cover options:
Options to adjust your annual benefit limit, reimbursement rate and excess.
Bow Wow Meow's Nose-to-Tail Cover offers flexible options for your Elkhound, with cover for accidental injuries, illnesses and hereditary conditions⑅. Get a quick quote for cover that suits your Elkhound and your budget.
Elkhound feeding and nutrition
The Elkhound needs a nutrient-rich diet that supports its sturdy body, active nature and thick double coat. Quality protein helps maintain muscle, while healthy fats can support energy levels, skin health and coat condition.
Portion control is important, as Elkhounds can gain weight if overfed, particularly when exercise is limited. Their dense coat can hide changes in body condition, so regular weight checks and measured meals are recommended. Adjust food intake seasonally if activity levels change.
Elkhound care and grooming
The Elkhound has a thick, weather-resistant double coat that sheds regularly and heavily during seasonal coat changes. Weekly brushing helps remove loose hair and keep the coat healthy, while daily brushing may be needed during shedding periods.
Bathing should be occasional, as the coat naturally repels dirt and protects the skin. Thorough brushing is usually more important than frequent washing. Regular nail trimming, ear checks and dental care should be part of the routine, and the dense coat should be checked for ticks or skin irritation after outdoor activity.
Size, appearance and coat of Elkhounds
The Elkhound is a sturdy, medium-sized spitz-type dog with a compact body, deep chest and confident, alert posture. It has a broad wedge-shaped head, dark oval eyes, erect pointed ears and a tightly curled tail carried over the back.
Its coat is thick, weather-resistant and double-layered, with a dense undercoat and coarse outer coat. The classic colour is grey with black-tipped guard hairs, lighter silver shading and darker markings on the muzzle, ears and tail.
| Weight range | 20 to 25 kg |
| Height range | 49 to 52 cm |
| Colours | Grey with black-tipped guard hairs and lighter undercoat |
| Coat length | Thick, weather-resistant double coat |
Breed history of Elkhounds
The Norwegian Elkhound is an ancient spitz-type hunting dog from Norway, used to track and hold large game such as moose until hunters arrived. Archaeological finds and Norse tradition are often linked to dogs of this type, giving the breed one of the oldest historical identities among northern European dogs.
The Elkhound’s work required courage, stamina and a strong voice, as it often worked independently while keeping hunters informed of the animal’s location. Its grey double coat, curled tail and compact strength reflect a long history in Scandinavian forests and harsh weather.
Explore related breeds
Elkhound facts!
- Elkhounds have a long history in Scandinavia and are ancient Nordic hunting dogs.
- They were used to hunt large game such as moose and elk.
- They are spitz-type dogs: their curled tail, pointed ears and thick coat are classic spitz features.
- They are brave and vocal. Elkhounds used their bark to hold game in place and alert hunters.
- Their dense grey double coat helps protect them in cold climates.
Summary
The Norwegian Elkhound is a sturdy, medium-sized spitz breed with a thick grey double coat, curled tail, erect ears and confident expression. Bold, loyal and energetic, Elkhounds were bred to track large game and are naturally vocal, independent and watchful.
They need regular exercise, firm but fair training, early socialisation and frequent brushing, especially during heavy seasonal shedding.
FAQs about the Elkhound
It can be, provided the household matches the breed’s exercise, training, grooming and supervision needs.
High – daily walks, hikes and scent games.
Shedding depends on coat type, season and grooming routine. The breed has a thick, weather-resistant double coat.
No. While some individuals may shed less than others, no dog breed is truly allergy-free.
Most respond well to positive, consistent training, but owners should work with the breed’s instincts rather than against them.
MORE INFORMATION
Norwegian Elkhound Association of America: https://neaa.net/
Norwegian Elkhound Club of Great Britain: https://necgb.net/
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