Norwegian Elkhound

From Pet Encyclopedia

Nowegian Elkhound

Origin of Breed

Norway

Breed Nick Names

Norwegian Moose Dog

Contents 1 Introduction 2 Origin and History 3 Appearance 4 Temperament 5 Health 6 External Links 7 References

[edit] Introduction

The Norwegian Elkhound breed is a member of the Hound Dog Group, other members of this group include the Basset Hound, Basenji and Afghan Hound to name but a few., but he is not really a Hound at all, and was added to this group as a hunting dog becasue he is not a Gundog or a Terrier, in countries affiliated to the FCI the breed is in Group 5, Spitz and Primitive Types. The Norwegian Elkhound is a Spitz Type Dog which originate from the Artic regions and have evolved to fit three purposes, which are Herding, Hunting and Pulling Sleds. The Norwegian Elkhound dog has served as both a Herder and a Hunter, but is primarily usd for hunting today,and as a Companion in countries where there is no Elk hunting.

[edit] Origin and History

The Norwegian Elkhound is one of the oldest inhabitants of Scandinavia. Long before he became the companion of the Vikings in both sport and conquest, the Elkhound, in much the same form as today, roamed Norway.

This magnificent breed was a fearless hunter and a devoted companion. Four skeletons found in Norway date the breed in the stone age period. These skeletons reach back from 4,000 to 5,000 B.C.

He was proficient in hunting the Moose from which he gets his name. The Elkhound name in Norwegian is Elghund which translates to Moose Dog. Elg= moose. Hund = dog in Norsk. Therefore, they are a Moosedog and in the translation to English, it became Elkhound.The dogs were also used in hunting Elk and bears. In America he has been used as a retriever hunting upland game birds. He has excelled as a farm dog in working live stock.

History assistance from Tim Hjellum

Vinya

[edit] Appearance

Medium size and square in outline with a thick close lying weather resistant coat of grey of various shades, made up of a mix of light undercoat and balck tipped guard hair.

The muzzle on the wedge shaped head and prick ears are dark, as are the eyes.

The underside, legs and tail are light creamy grey, with a light coloured band of guard hair (harness mark) of about 2 inches width from the top of the shoulders to behind the elbows.

[edit] Temperament

The typical Elkhound temperament is dignified, intelligent, independent, and, generally, friendly. Given the job that they were originally bred to do, the Elkhound must be a problem solver/thinker. This requires that an Elkhound's owner be persistent, consistent and creative when training a new puppy. Elkhounds are very people-oriented, and they do not like to be shut away from their family. They are excellent with children especially when introduced at a young age; however, as with any breed, children must be taught to treat the dog with respect. Very young children and dogs should never be left unsupervised.

[edit] Health

The life expectancy of the Norwegian Elkhound is around 10-15 years. There are a number of health problems to look out for with this breed, and this includes: cataracts, thyroid problems, PRA, HD, cysts, cancer, and kidney problems. The parents of the Norwegian Elkhound puppy should have OFA and CERF certificates.

[edit] External Links

[edit] References

http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/item/32