Introduction

The Norwegian Elkhound, also known as the Norsk Elghund (Gra), the Grahund, the Graa Dyrehund, the Dyrehund, the Grey Elkhound, the Grey Norwegian Elkhound, the Grey Elk Dog, the Swedish Grey Dog and the Elkhound, is one of the oldest and most natural of all canine breeds. It is Norway’s grand contribution to dogdom. Everything about this dog – from his compact size, muscular body, robust squareness and dense coat to his fearless temperament, keen intelligence, versatility and adaptability to any tasks or conditions – developed without a preconceived human mold. The Norwegian Elkhound was first recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1913. and became eligible for full registration in 1930, as a member of the Hound Group.

The mature male Elkhound stands 20½ inches at the withers and weighs about 55 pounds; adult bitches stand 19½ inches in height and typically weigh about 48 pounds. Their thick, hard, weather-resistant coat has a soft, wooly undercoat and a coarse, smooth-lying overcoat that requires regular brushing to loosen and remove dead hair. No alteration by trimming, clipping or other artificial treatment is permitted in the show ring. The breed sheds its coat seasonally in great volume. Coat color is preferred in a medium gray, with black tips on the overcoat and a light, clear silver undercoat. The muzzle, ears and tip of the tail are black. Red, brown, solid black, white or any solid color other than described above disqualifies the dog from show competition. Like other Spitz breeds, the Norwegian Elkhound carries its tightly curled tail high over its back.

Norwegian Elkhound - History and Health

The Norwegian Elkhound dates back thousands of years to the wild rocky slopes, bleak plateaus and glacial ice of primitive Norway. Fossilized skeletons of these dogs were uncovered among stone implements in the Viste Cave at Jaeren in western Norway, in a stratum dating back to 5000 to 4000 B.C. The Elkhound developed in type and temperament strictly through natural expression of physical and temperamental needs. He hunted all day with his guardians in rugged

Norwegian Elkhound - Temperament & Personality

Norwegian Elkhounds are friendly, energetic dogs who make excellent companions for active families. Elkhounds love to be outdoors, and look like they are having the time of their lives when they do anything that involves running. They are sensitive animals, in tune with how their owners are feeling and instinctively know when to clown around for a laugh, or when to stay quiet and lay their head in the lap of a friend who needs

Norwegian Elkhound - Appearance & Grooming

The Norwegian Elkhound is a medium-sized, gray hunting dog with a Spitz-type build and typical northern breed features. They are squarely built, athletic, and possess the stamina to hunt for many days at a time in wet, cold weather. The double coat is thick, gray, and built to withstand extreme temperatures, moisture, and to shed debris and dirt. The tail it tightly curled over the back. The head of the Norwegian Elkhound is wedge-shaped and

Norwegian Elkhound - Pictures

The saying goes, “a picture is worth a thousand words”. Check out the many different Norwegian Elkhound Pictures and Norwegian Elkhound images. Get an in depth look at the Norwegian Elkhound and see the many things that this breed has to offer.