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    Hound Group

    Norwegian Elkhound

    Norway's national dog — an ancient spitz hunting hound used to track moose ('elk' in Europe) and bear. Elkhounds are bold, friendly, and tireless workers with a thick double coat suited for cold climates. They need 60 minutes of daily exercise and shed prodigiously twice a year.

    Norwegian Elkhound with thick gray coat and curled tail in a snowy pine forest

    Quick Facts

    Origin
    Norway, ancient (Viking-era)
    Height (M / F)
    20.5 / 19.5 in
    Weight (M / F)
    55 / 48 lb
    Lifespan
    12–15 years
    Coat
    Thick, weather-resistant double coat
    Shedding
    high
    Hypoallergenic
    No
    Energy
    ●●●●○ (4/5)
    Trainability
    ●●●○○ (3/5)
    Kid-friendly
    ●●●●○ (4/5)
    Apartment OK
    Better with space
    Daily exercise
    60–90 min

    History & Origin

    Among the oldest dog breeds — Elkhound skeletons have been found alongside Viking artifacts dating to 5000 BC. Used to hunt moose, bear and reindeer. AKC recognition in 1913.

    Temperament & Personality

    Bold, friendly, dignified. Independent. Vocal — loud bark used in hunting. Strong prey drive.

    Health Watchouts

    Top conditions reported by AKC parent clubs, OFA, and the Merck Veterinary Manual. Discuss screening with your vet — especially before breeding or insuring.

    Hip dysplasia

    ~13% (OFA)

    Joint malformation.

    Screening: OFA hips

    Progressive retinal atrophy

    Hereditary

    Inherited blindness.

    Screening: DNA test

    Hypothyroidism

    Common

    Low thyroid.

    Screening: Annual T4/TSH

    Renal dysplasia

    Hereditary

    Kidney malformation.

    Screening: Pedigree review; urinalysis

    Cushing's disease

    Notable in seniors

    Excess cortisol.

    Screening: Senior bloodwork

    Exercise Needs

    60–90 minutes daily — long walks, hikes, and cool-weather activity.

    • Long hikes
    • Cool-weather running
    • Tracking
    • Skijoring
    • Yard play
    Puppies: Standard puppy growth.
    Seniors: Maintain daily walks; keep weight down.

    Nutrition

    Daily calories: Adult: 900–1,400 kcal.

    Two meals daily.

    Common allergens to watch: Chicken, Wheat, Beef.

    ⚠ Easy keepers — measure all food. Coat hides weight.

    Entertainment & Enrichment

    Active brain that loves a job.

    • Tracking
    • Skijoring
    • Puzzle feeders
    • Trick training
    • Hiking

    Grooming & Coat Care

    Brush 2× weekly; daily during heavy seasonal coat blows (twice yearly). Bathe every 8–12 weeks. Never shave.

    Training

    Independent and stubborn — positive reinforcement with creative motivation. Channel barking and prey drive early.

    Cost of Ownership

    Lifetime cost depends on size, lifespan, and health risks. Try our Lifetime Cost Calculator →

    Cost band for Norwegian Elkhound: medium.

    How insurance, vet care & grooming connect for the Norwegian Elkhound

    These three costs move together. The Norwegian Elkhound’s coat, energy, and breed-specific health watchouts shape each one — here’s how they line up.

    Insurance band

    Above average

    Common hereditary conditions raise claim odds

    Vet service load

    High

    High activity raises orthopedic & injury visits

    Grooming demand

    High

    Double coat sheds seasonally — frequent brushing

    Triple-cost breed: budget for premium insurance, frequent vet visits, and professional grooming.

    Estimated monthly spend (typical adult)

    Insurance

    $75

    Routine vet

    $60

    Grooming

    $75

    Combined estimate

    ~$210/mo(±20%, US averages)

    * Estimates derived from breed traits (coat, energy, health watchouts, lifespan). Actual costs vary by location, age, and provider.

    Living Situation Fit

    Suburban or rural homes; cool climates preferred. Not for apartments due to barking. Best with active owners.

    Choosing a Puppy

    OFA hips, eye CERF, DNA for PRA, thyroid. Meet both parents.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Do Norwegian Elkhounds bark a lot?

    Yes — they're vocal alert barkers and use barking to track quarry. Training and managing boredom helps but expect a vocal dog.

    How much do Norwegian Elkhounds shed?

    Heavily, with two intense seasonal coat blows yearly. Daily brushing during those weeks; twice-weekly otherwise.

    Are Norwegian Elkhounds good with kids?

    Yes — they're friendly and tolerant with family children. Their high energy suits older active kids better than toddlers.

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    Keeshond

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    Reviewed by PetHelpAnswers Editorial Team

    This profile is shared for informational and educational purposes only. Individual dogs vary — always consult a licensed veterinarian for medical guidance.