Norwegian Elkhound Grey
Temperament:
The Norwegian Elkhound is the national dog of Norway. This is a persistent hunting dog that, in addition to its use as a house and guard dog, is also used for hunting big game because of its courage.
Characteristics
With a maximum height of 52 cm, the Norwegian Elkhound can weigh up to 24 kg. Thus, he is larger than the black Elkhound and belongs to the medium-sized dogs. The compact body of the gray Elkhound has a square shape.
Its coarse coat can take on a black, gray or white coloration. It consists of two layers: a dense undercoat and a longer top coat with black tips, which determine the shade. The coat of this breed is very resistant to weathering.
According to the current breed standard, the tail of the gray Elkhound must be curled tightly over the back.
The Norwegian Elkhound is loyal to his master despite his stubbornness. With enough opportunity for exercise, the Elkhounds are also suitable as a family dog. They are the alert, but always friendly. Especially when dealing with children, one quickly gets to know the playful side of this breed. As watchdogs, they also often let their loud and sharp voice be heard, but are generally rather open-minded towards strangers.
Coat care:
Shedding:
Energy level:
Trainability:
Children suitable:
The right food
Since the gray moose dog tends to be overweight, it must not be overfed. Therefore, you should check the weight of your four-legged friend at regular intervals.
It is important to provide a balanced diet that consists mostly of meat. Even with occasional snacks, you should make sure that the treats do not contain sugar and cereals. To satisfy your dog's need to chew, you can give him dry chews to bite.
Water, by the way, must be available to the dog at all times.
Norwegian Elkhound Grey Care
Despite its dense and long hair, brushing two to three times a week is enough. During the change of coat, the brush should ideally be used daily. Nevertheless, the Elkhound also loses a relatively large amount of hair during the rest of the year in comparison.
The claws of your four-legged friend need good care and an attentive owner, especially if your dog moves mainly on soft ground, such as forest floor. If they are not kept short in this case, there is a risk of injury for your dog.
His ears should also be checked regularly and treated with dog ear cleaner if necessary.
Suitable accessories
Except for the usual basic equipment and a large outdoor area, the Norwegian Elkhound does not make great demands.
Necessary is a fur brush for your four-legged friend. With enough experience, a claw nipper is also useful. Otherwise, you can and should have the pedicure done by a veterinarian.
Also, make sure your dog always has a cool place to go in warm weather.
Origin & History
The history of the Norwegian Elkhound goes back to the Stone Age. Similar dog skeletons from a time of about 5000 to 4000 before our era were discovered by archaeologists. Thus, the Norwegian Elkhound belongs to the ancient lineage of the Spitz. The conjectures of some cynologists indicate that its appearance is very close to the first domesticated dogs of Western Europe.
During the Middle Ages, this breed was known as "Dyrehund", which means "animal dog" in Norwegian. In Norway, it was used intensively for hunting moose, bears and wolves. In 1877, the breed was first shown at a dog show. Just a few years later, its fame spread to England. There it was recognized by the Kennel Club in 1901 and twelve years later by the American Kennel Club.
Until 1981, the four-legged dog known as Gråhund (Greyhound) was considered a Swedish breed. Only in this year the FCI deleted this entry and replaced it with "Norwegian Elkhound gray".
