Norwegian Elkhound
Hound Group · Purebred · The Viking's dog — bold, ancient, and built for the northern wilderness
48–55 lbsWeight
19–20 inHeight
12–15 yrsLifespan
HighEnergy
Hound Group · Purebred · The Viking's dog — bold, ancient, and built for the northern wilderness
Watch this video for a quick overview of the Norwegian Elkhound — see the breed in action before diving into the details below.
The Norwegian Elkhound is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world — a true ancient Spitz type whose ancestors have been hunting alongside Scandinavian people since the Stone Age. Skeletons of Elkhound-type dogs have been found in Norwegian archaeological sites dating back 6,000–7,000 years, making them one of the oldest known domesticated dogs in Northern Europe. They are the national dog of Norway.
Originally bred to hunt moose (called "elk" in Scandinavia) and other large game like bear and lynx, the Elkhound would track prey through vast mountain wilderness, then hold it at bay — circling, barking, and dodging until the hunter arrived. This required extraordinary endurance, courage, and independence. Today's Elkhound carries all of those traits in a compact, wedge-shaped body with a distinctive silver-grey double coat, tightly curled tail, and bold, confident expression. They make loyal, alert family dogs with a strong independent streak.
Real Norwegian Elkhounds — browse photos showcasing their look, size, and personality.
Norwegian Elkhounds are known for being independent, determined, and loyal. They form deep bonds with their families and thrive on consistent human connection. As a high-energy breed, they are best matched with active owners who enjoy outdoor activities and can commit to regular exercise.
Training is generally a pleasure with Norwegian Elkhounds — they are responsive, motivated, and pick up commands quickly. They are typically gentle and patient with children, making them a reliable family companion.
Norwegian Elkhounds are high-energy dogs that need significant daily exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. Without adequate activity they can become restless, vocal, or destructive. They are happiest with owners who genuinely enjoy an active lifestyle.
Norwegian Elkhounds have a dense double coat built for protection against the elements. They shed year-round with two major blow-out seasons in spring and fall. Regular brushing dramatically reduces the amount of hair around your home and keeps the coat healthy.
Norwegian Elkhounds are highly responsive to training and genuinely enjoy learning. Their combination of intelligence and eagerness to please makes them a joy to work with — they pick up new commands quickly and retain them well.
Keep training sessions varied and engaging to prevent boredom. Norwegian Elkhounds can handle advanced training — agility, nose work, therapy work, or competitive obedience are all excellent options for channeling their intelligence.
Norwegian Elkhounds are generally robust dogs but like all breeds they carry some genetic predispositions. Responsible breeders screen breeding stock for the most common conditions, significantly reducing risk in puppies from health-tested parents.
A Norwegian Elkhound is ideal for active families or individuals who genuinely enjoy outdoor activities and can commit to daily vigorous exercise. Their trainability makes them approachable for first-time owners who are prepared for an engaged lifestyle. Not the right fit for sedentary households or those with very limited time for exercise.
Norwegian Elkhounds need consistent, well-portioned meals matched to their life stage. Overfeeding is one of the biggest health risks for any dog — use these guidelines and adjust based on your dog's activity level and body condition.
These are general guidelines for a medium-breed dog. Always check the feeding instructions on your specific food brand, and adjust based on activity level and body condition score.
Look for dog foods where the first ingredient is a named protein — chicken, beef, salmon, or lamb. Medium or large-breed formulas are calibrated for their metabolism and nutritional needs.
These common human foods can be toxic — even life-threatening — for dogs. Keep them safely out of reach at all times.
Always bring your Norwegian Elkhound's regular food when boarding. Switching food suddenly can cause digestive upset. Provide the facility your exact feeding schedule and portion sizes.
The upfront cost of a Norwegian Elkhound is just the beginning. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to expect — both to acquire one and to own one for their lifetime.
Beyond the purchase price, owning a Norwegian Elkhound costs between $120–$250 per month on average. Here's where the money goes:
Over a 10–13 year lifespan, a Norwegian Elkhound typically costs between $12,000–$22,000 total — depending on health, lifestyle, and the services you use.
Pet insurance is worth considering for any breed. Buying before your dog turns 1 gives the best rates and fewest pre-existing condition exclusions. Compare 2–3 providers before committing.
Because Norwegian Elkhounds have such wonderful traits, they're a popular choice for intentional mixed breeding. Here are the most common — and most loved — Norwegian Elkhound crosses.
Norwegian Elkhound × Siberian Husky. Double the northern heritage — stunning, powerful, vocal sled-dog energy.
Norwegian Elkhound × Labrador. Friendlier, more biddable, athletic medium family dog.
Norwegian Elkhound × German Shepherd. Bold, protective, highly intelligent working companion.
Norwegian Elkhound × Samoyed. Fluffy, cheerful, cold-weather northern dog with a warm heart.
Norwegian Elkhounds are full of surprises. Here are some of the most fascinating, funny, and heartwarming facts about this breed.