General Information
Norwegian Elkhound
Norwegian name : Norsk Elghund
Books
Suggested by James Henry ...
"The
Norwegian Elkhound: Energetic & Independent"
(This is a must read for those wanting to find out more about the Elkhound).
The Legend of the Night of the Wolves
Code
of Eithic ...
Breeding ...
Care of the Mother and Family...
Building a Whelping Box
This is a overview of The Elkhound from NZKC
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Physical Description
A very versatile dog developed as a companion to the Vikings
as a hunter, guardian and companion. Wolf like in appearance
this medium sized "Spitz" type dog has silver-grey
hair and a dense weather resistant double coat. The face
is a dark blackish grey. Square in profile with prick
ears and a tightly curled tail that lies over the back.
Hey are powerfully built dog with exceptional strength
and will bounce off prey like a rubber ball. They have
high levels of both energy and stamina with a strong sense
of smell and hearing. The ideal height at the shoulders
is 49-52cm and a weight of 20-24kg.
Behaviour/Characteristics
Determined, loyal, and enthusiastic, they are friendly
to strangers when introduced. Of high intelligence with
an ability to think independently which appears at times
as stubbornness. They are trainable but will not be
robotic. They will thinks about what is requested and
respond when they think it is time to do so. They communicate
with their tails, facial expressions, and with a series
of barks depending upon the situation; i.e. one to announce
intruders, one to bail game, etc. Despite their working
background they're very gentle and very devoted to their
family.
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History
The Elkhound has changed little since the Stone Age and is
one of the more ancient breeds. They have been bred to herd,
hunt, guard and pull sleds. Remains of Elkhound type dogs
have been found buried with the ancient Norse dating back
some 6000 years. In Norwegian, Elkhound actually The Norwegian name is actually: "Norsk Elghund" ("Norse" is an English word) ...and "Elg" does directly translate to Elk...or moose...since its the same word in Norwegian...but "elk" is the best translation, since there are no moose in Norway......and "hund" does directly translate to hound...or dog...since its the same word in Norwegian...(and the English word "hound" most likely derives from the Old Norse) translates
to "Moose Dog", not Elk Hound as the current description
would have it. this amendment comes from Eskil Bradley of Norway
Ownership Preferences
Excellent with children. Because of their breeding they double
as both a companion and a watchdog. Still used widely as a
hunting and farm herding dog. Generally they have a dislike
of water and are not a retrieving dog.
Housing Requirements
A good dry bed is all they require. Given their long history
in an inhospitable climate they are quite happy to be outside
all day, then curl up beside the owner at night. If living
in an urban situation then a well fenced property is necessary
because they have little traffic sense. Walking on the lead
is recommended around towns.
Feeding Requirements
The diet must be controlled as they can survive on very little.
They tend to put on weight easily if overfed or not
exercised and will eat anything including fruit and
vegetables.
Grooming
They are particularly clean and like all spitz type dogs are
relatively odour free. Their coat is easy to care for and,
should it become muddy, once ry the mud will fall off. The
females moult twice a year and the males once a year, when
substantial amounts of hair and undercoat will be shed. The
dense undercoat changes depending on the climate and the amount
of time spent outdoors. Brush weekly and during the moult
comb daily.
Training
Being of strong independent nature they need to be brought
up firmly yet fairly. They are very quick to learn yet quite
sensitive and will adapt to most circumstances.
Leisure Pursuits
They thrive with an active family and if you are a keen walker
or tramper then the Elkhound will be with you all the way
regardless of the terrain or weather. They are built for endurance
rather than speed. Used in New Zealand as a hunter of pigs
and deer, they have been used as a search and rescue dog in
many parts of eh world including New Zealand.
Longevity
12-15 years
Health problems perculiar to the breed:Generally there has
been few problems in New Zealand. Like all breeds watch for
inbreeding. This can cause PRA (Night Blindness) and Hip Dysplasia
in some lines.
Undesirable Traits
Elkhounds should be friendly to people and not show signs
of aggression apart from their bailing characteristics. Dogs
should be square in appearance with plenty of "air"
beneath their bellies. Dropped-sided tails and "spectacles"
around the eyes are a common fault as are short legs. Because
they have been bred to bark they must be taught what they
are allowed to bark at and what they are not allowed to bark
at.
Cost of ownership
Apart from the cost of acquiring your dog, running costs are
low. As they generally will eat food scraps including your
apples and pasta, special food is not necessary provided they
get a balanced diet.
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