Norwegian Elkhound

The Norwegian Grey Elkhound Hunter, also known as the Norwegian Grey Elkhound, is a medium to large dog breed originating in Norway known for its ability to hunt elk.

General details

Males have a height of 52 to 60 cm and females measure around 49 to 56 cm at the withers. In terms of weight, males weigh around 23 to 27 kg and females weigh around 20 to 25 kg. It is estimated that dogs of this breed usually live between 12 and 15 years. It belongs to Group 5 of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), which includes Spitz and primitive type dogs.

Breed history in brief

The Norwegian Grey Elkhound, also known as the Norwegian Grey Elkhound, is an ancient breed that originated in Norway. Its history dates back thousands of years, being used by ancient hunters and nomads to hunt moose, bear and other large animals. Over the centuries, the Norwegian Grey Moose Hunter has played an important role in hunting and protecting farms and properties in Norway. Its ability to track and tackle large prey made it a highly valued hunting dog. Over time, this breed has evolved and adapted to the changing needs of society. As hunting became less common, the Norwegian Grey Elkhound became a popular companion dog due to its friendly temperament, loyalty and protective nature.

Breed characteristics

The Norwegian Grey Elkhound is a medium-sized dog with a distinctive and robust appearance. It has a head proportional to the body, with a broad, flat skull and a well defined stop. Its eyes are medium-sized, almond-shaped and dark in color, and the ears are erect and set high on the head. Its coat is dense, double-coated and resistant to inclement weather. The tail is well covered with hair and is carried curled over the back. The characteristic color of this breed is gray, with shades ranging from light to dark gray. Some individuals may have black markings on the face and ears. Gray Norwegian Elkhounds are courageous, energetic and loyal dogs. They are known for their endurance and hunting skills, as they were bred to track and tackle elk. They are intelligent and obedient dogs, making them relatively easy to train.

Common health problems

The breed is characterized by good health. However, they are prone to develop certain disorders or pathologies such as hip dysplasia, dermatitis, progressive retinal atrophy, retinal dysplasia and cataracts.