Is the Norwegian Elkhound a good family dog?
Norwegian Elkhounds are usually affectionate with their families, brave and naturally watchful. Many are vocal and alert by nature, so they often announce visitors, wildlife or anything unusual happening nearby.
Care needs
- Brush the dense double coat several times a week, and daily during heavy seasonal shedding.
- Provide daily exercise and scent-based enrichment to satisfy the breed’s working instincts.
- Use consistent training from puppyhood, as this breed can be independent and opinionated.
- Monitor weight carefully because Elkhounds can gain weight if exercise and food are not balanced.
Size and lifespan
Male Norwegian Elkhounds typically weigh between 22 and 25 kg and stand around 52 cm at the shoulder. Females usually weigh between 19 and 23 kg and stand around 49 cm tall. The average lifespan is around 12 to 15 years. Keeping them lean, active and well-groomed can help support mobility, skin health and long-term comfort.
Exercise needs
Most adult Norwegian Elkhounds need around one hour to 90 minutes of exercise each day. They enjoy long walks, scent work, hiking and exploring in cooler weather. Their thick coat means care is needed in hot weather, with exercise moved to cooler parts of the day. Puppies should build exercise gradually and avoid excessive jumping or long forced walks while growing.
Coat and grooming
The thick double coat sheds heavily, especially during seasonal coat blows. Brushing several times a week is usually needed, with daily brushing during heavy shedding periods. The coat should not normally be clipped short, as it helps regulate temperature and protect the skin. Owners should check for trapped debris, hotspots and skin irritation beneath the dense coat.
Temperament and training
Norwegian Elkhounds are intelligent and loyal, but they are not usually push-button obedient. Positive, consistent training works best, especially when started early and kept interesting. Many are affectionate with children and family members, but they can be reserved or alert around strangers. Their natural watchdog tendencies and barking need managing in homes with close neighbours.
Is this breed right for me?
The Norwegian Elkhound suits active owners who enjoy hardy outdoor breeds and do not mind shedding or vocal behaviour. They may not suit people wanting a quiet, low-shedding dog or a breed that follows instructions without question. Grooming, food, training and possible treatment for eyes, joints, skin or kidney-related conditions should all be considered when comparing insurance cover.
For more context before comparing cover, read our guide to hip scoring and dog insurance and the jargon buster on bilateral conditions.
