Norwegian Elkhound - Top 10 Facts

[@collinaire]

Best dog I've ever had. More personality than most people. Truly a lover, protector, and a companion.

[@JerseyAir]

You are absolutely right, I had a norwegian elkhound that lived to be 18. Great dog!

[@jonathanweilbacher9714]

Absolutely correct. Mine was my other half. She passed away but I can still feel her with me.

[@GeFeldz]

LOTS and LOTS of personality =)

[@computerfastrepair]

Hi. I just got a puppy norwegian elkhound. Very energetic!! Bit stubborn. Any tips pleas? Im also in nj. Thank u ​@JerseyAir

[@georgem3240]

Very intelligent dogs that are easy to train. They’re a proud and dignified breed-almost cat-like. They shed quite a bit, but their fur is VERY dense (puff balls) so it’s easy to pick up. On the other hand, because their fur is so dense, hugging them is amazing.

[@littlewigglemonster7691]

How reliable off leash are they?

[@georgem3240]

@@littlewigglemonster7691 I would not reccomend you taking a NE off leash. They're similar to Huskies in that they're VERY stubborn and VERY strong willed. As I mentioned, they combine the best and worst traits (depending on your point of view) of cats and dogs. We once playfully teased our NE and then laughed at her reaction. She looked at us, stopped what she was doing, walked away, and then gave us the cold shoulder the rest of the day. We learned our lesson.

[@littlewigglemonster7691]

@@georgem3240 thanks for the reply :) ❤️

[@BrimirMe]

​@@littlewigglemonster7691 They can be challenging off-leash, if you are not used to working dogs like this, but they do most of their hunting off-leash. That's what they're bred for. Elkhounds that gets to hunt are considered more mallable (because they have a comfortable role in the family, they don't have to make one up). They don't require grooming if they are fed the right food, only help to blow the coat twice a year. No shampoo washing either, they don't smell and most dirt will slide off in the rain. Merv Carlson has a lot of videos on them and some specifically on training off/on leash and grooming. kzbin.info/www/bejne/nZzKmXV9mLyod6c

[@Grawnt]

If you vigilantly train an elkhound from when it’s a pup off they are great off leash. My elkhounds recall is phenomenal & she stays close when she’s told to if the pathways are busy but she sometimes will try to push to go her way but it’s easy to just change your tone of voice and they’ll immediately correct.

[@marias.1882]

Everything you mentioned about the Elkhound is true. Our boy lived a full 15 years. He had daily exercise in the forest preserve. The love and loyalty he gave will never be forgotten.

[@johnjohnson8744]

Had one for 17 years. Incredible good boy.

[@nathanb605]

They truly love to bark and shed lol

[@gerald4133]

We have a male he is really protective if anyone comes to our door. The kids love him.

[@justsamurai698]

Lol

[@lawrencejacksonnorsworthy3434]

Pretty good video, but the leash bit is off. Elkies have long been bred to stay close when on the trail. We didn’t even have to train ours how to be off leash, she just instinctively knew to stay close. They are truly incredible dogs and I highly encourage anyone thinking about getting one to go for it! I’ve never known a more intelligent, loving dog than our current Elkhound.

[@canislupis3129]

Agreed. We had 3 kids and would often go on hikes through the woods. The Elkhound would constantly be running all around but always came to check the kids. She did not like losing sight of any of them. We took ours to classes when she was young and trained much better than I expected. We were always comfortable with her off leash.

[@BrncsWrldordr1]

How old is yours? Mine is a year and likes to run anywhere she can. If I take her off the leash she bolts anywhere she can especially outside. I take her for runs daily but she was neglected a run until I got her 2 months ago. Not sure if she’s just different lol

[@Suzz60947]

@@BrncsWrldordr1 I grew up with the breed. Unless started early off leash with another dog as their guide to not bolt, they generally *do* bolt. Out of 5 Elkies in my life, only 1 hasn't been a runner. Try an extendable leash to start and work on consistent recall. In a safe area, once the recall is strong, let off leash. Praise and treats. Lots of praise. Elkies do best with positive reinforcement. Hope things are going well for you and your Elkie!

[@trevorpullen3199]

I'd agree with this, with the caveat being that they stay pretty close until they see or hear an animal to chase. At least that's how mine are. Deer, rabbits, turkeys, raccoons, squirrels. They'll spot them from along ways off and give chase every time. However, they always find their way back to me so it's not been that big an issue. I just have to make sure we go places there is plenty of room to roam without them chasing an animal out onto a highway or onto someone's property. Generally, they stay pretty close though. Nothing more rewarding/freeing than hiking with them off leash.

[@trevorpullen3199]

@@BrncsWrldordr1 Does she bolt and not come back? Mine will wander a little bit off the trail at times, and will especially chase deer, rabbits, squirrels etc... but they are really good at finding their way back. I used to get really worried when it happened the first few times, but now I trust them to come back every time, even if it takes a few minutes. I'd prefer they stay close, but have been unsuccessful at training them to do so thus far. So, I've come accept that they will wander a little bit, and I need to make sure I only take them places where they have the space to do so (don't go near busy busy roads or private property that they might wander onto).

[@ferretlord7051]

My family have had elkhounds for as long as I can remember. There was one named Kyle. All Kyle ever wanted was a puppy. My parents got him right before I was born and I was his puppy. Every night he would sneak into my crib a sleep next to me, even if he had to jump the thing. Keep in mind he was an OLD dog when my parents got him, so this was impressive. He unfortunately passed when I was five, but I will never forget him.

[@DogsWiz]

Is your Norwegian an independent thinker? Are they hard to train? Share your experience living with these smart and versatile dogs in the comments!

[@lawrencejacksonnorsworthy3434]

Not hard to train once you adjust. It’s just different than most dogs because they’re so smart. Ours has a HUGE vocabulary for a dog.

[@gerald4133]

His bark varies on things he wants or demands, unfortunately we have had to move several times.

[@maveGT]

They are very smart indeed. My 14 years old can dance, roll, give a claw, stand still until he gets permission to move, etc. Sometimes he gives a little resistance and barks, but you just to be clear and wait him to cool down. Now that he's old and can't run so fast i also keep him without a leash when walking with him.. Gives me no worry and keeping a good distance.

[@gerald4133]

@@maveGT stubbornly loving they are! 🐕

[@Kittykunoichi]

I have a 2 year old Norwegian Elkhound named Freya. Our family has a long history of owning not just dogs but cats, horses, mini donkeys and other animals so we're very used to training and taking care of all sorts of critters. Freya is the most intelligent dog we've ever owned. She -does- bark and she can be very intimidating but she's never been aggressive or snapped at anyone, much. She does shed like mad though. Another downside is that Elkhounds can get overweight VERY easily. Despite being very active on our 30 acres her weight does fluctuate between svelte and a bit chubby. When I went to pick a puppy from the breeder I asked which pup was the one who just wanted to chill out with the humans and get cuddled and the breeder indicated Freya, so perhaps I picked a dog that was more 'eager to please' than other more independent minded Elkhounds. She was very easy to train! I think no matter which breed you are interested in, take the time to talk to the breeder about their puppies and if you get the option, base your decision on which to get on that.

[@ui-dovakiin4549]

Was my first dog when I was born. Only met one other person who had one. Wish more ppl got these dogs.

[@A_Hylian_Not_An_Elf]

I have two. They are so sweet and adorable. They are also great at protecting my family.

[@glenncaraballoso1470]

First dog I had also.

[@LibertysTeeth83]

Smartest dog I've ever had my brother found her in the woods as a puppy apparently dropped of by a girl who was given her by the breeder cause she was born with a hernia. She's doing great now and is a beloved member of our family

[@grizzlycountry1030]

Definitely the best dog I've ever had.

[@canislupis3129]

You see that soft undercoat fur that looked like down? We brushed our dog outside and the birds would swoop down to pick it up and use it to help make their nest.

[@A_Hylian_Not_An_Elf]

That happened when we would groom our Elkhound.

[@winstonelston5743]

My boy Baldurdash is a wonderful buddy, as was his great-great grandmother, Aani, Aani's great-aunt Moose, and our first Elkhound, Grey. Especially remarkable is their empathy with elderly and infirm family members. Ours were always devoted to my Mom, who had several strokes, osteoporosis, and fibromyalgia. They are wonderful heating pads and always know what part aches. All of mine have been independent to some degree, but always friendly. 'Dash is remarkably quiet in comparison to the others I have had. I once took Aani and 'Dash to the pharmacy, and they were drawn to an elderly lady in a wheelchair, approaching her and laid their heads on her knees. The lady's expression went from a thousand-mile stare to a startled glance, then joy when she recognized the breed. The lady's granddaughter stood by and explained that she was in late stage dementia, and, translating the old lady's remarks, explained that she had come from Norway as a refugee in the late thirties, and that she hadn't seen an elkhound in sixty years. The dogs and I allowed the lady as much time as she wanted to share the fuzz therapy. Aani is gone now, and the lady's granddaughter said she had passed a couple of weeks after that meeting. I was glad my dogs had given her that comfort.

[@terryestepp2615]

I am a dog lover in general... I fell in love with my sister's Elkhound ,Charlie. Though not trained, Charlie was so smart that he knew how to communicate with me to tell me what he wanted me to know... He knew what he needed to do to communicate with me by his own observation. Strongest creature I ever tried to hang on to...lol I loved his intelligence and dignity... Just loved that boy.

[@captainspaulding5728]

I love these dogs biggest down side is that the fur will be everywhere and on everything no matter how often you brush them i sweep twice a day and throw out basketball sized hairballs i only have one of them 😂 there loyal and very active great dogs mine doesnt listen at home but will listen to everything if he is outside or on a trip he is just stubborn that way

[@deniseuhlry9988]

I had a Elkhound...Rocky my entire childhood.I loved him beyond belief.He passed when he was 17...I was 20.He never let anyone near me....unless I said it was ok.

[@shannonherb2048]

I have had two. One male and one female. I absolutely love them. One of the best dogs i have ever had.

[@sharonhoyt2133]

I had one and loved her so much. Still miss her to this day. Never wanted another dog after she passed because it hurt me so much to lose her...Then my daughter got a dog right before being sent to Iraq...glad she left him with me. But N Elkhounds have my heart.

[@PetandAnimal-qq5td]

Lovely dog, i have ever seen before.

[@LiquidSquidYT]

First time I've ever heard of this dog! Cool video.

[@winstonelston5743]

I had heard of the breed but didn't know anything about them before one picked my Mom out in a pet shop. That little ball of fur cuddled Mom's cheek and shoulder, and that was all it took. Thirty-eight years and three more elkhounds later, I can't imagine life without one (or more).

[@lindawilson2589]

I bought an Elkhound from a breeder. When I asked how much shedding I should expect, she said "Oh, they only shed twice per year, 6 months at a time". I had no problems with his training. He didn't bark very much...usually when he had a reason. He also learned to do an "iddy biddy woof". Very cute. My mother claimed she had taught him to count to 4 as a trick. He knew to bark 4 times to get four biscuits. He was so fit until my mother started helping me care for him.

[@oliviabjornson9283]

my pup, Nahla, she is so humanlike. She loves sitting on chairs and always loves being around us. So its a pain leaving them to go to work, because she will sit in her kennel and howl all day cause she misses us. Dont worry, she understands why we leave, she is still a pup. Her bark is so unqie compared to other dogs and hounds, its low and loud. It quite is scary, because she isnt full grown yet. These dogs also love to eat a lot, they eat whatever you give them, so we feed ours twice a day. And is loves to stay outside, this winter will be her first, so we are hoping shell love it.

[@lon4018]

I have 6 year old male named Moose. When we leave the house, he will jump up on the couch and stick his face out the window. Truly an incredibly smart dog who just needs a lot of attention.

[@savrockismyname3859]

I just got my elkhound a few days ago. Might be because shes a 8 week old puppy but she needs A LOT of activity. Sometimes I give her three walks in a day.

[@kiraelric2685]

I had to do that when I got koda my elkhound hes 2 now but he needed to be walked and played with a lot. When she gets to be a little over a year she may mellow out but most dont slow till 5 I've been told.

[@stoutoutandaboutwithanorwe300]

kira elric Ours mellowed around 2 years. He still is up for long hikes, adventures and has plenty of energy, but he’s much more chill.

[@kiraelric2685]

@@stoutoutandaboutwithanorwe300 same with koda but if he doesn't get a long walk or hike at least 2 hours of exercise he gets barky and the zoomies

[@stoutoutandaboutwithanorwe300]

kira elric 😆😆 They do go a little stir crazy if they don’t get that daily exercise!

[@jjrockjon8610]

Start training: Sit, stay..walk a feet feet ahead, Come. They love it. And the mental/physical combo helps. Makes for a very obedient dog. God I miss my Ceaser. Such a great dog.

[@giimail]

I have one but I think he was crossed with another dog (possibly an Akida) because he has a tan coat but has very black markings around his eyes, nose and ears, but you can without a doubt see he is an elkhound. He is a great dog but fits into everything the narrator said...high prey drive, great eyesight and hearing, high energy (luckily I have 2 acres for him to wander)...the only thing he doesn't like is the water. Great dog incredibly loyal and fun.

[@kytown4248]

These are the best dogs in the world! My parents got me one when I was a kid and we grew up together. Her name was Queen. Someone shot her when she was around 11 years old. I never got over it, I missed a whole week of school. I never wanted another dog because you just couldn't replace Queen, she was one of a kind.

[@lemmykilmister545]

My grandparents had a Norwegian named Tab. He was my protector until the day he was put down. My dumb ass even bit his ear once (I was like 4) and he did nothing but sit there. Good ol boy.

[@TheHawk--oe8iq]

One day, Mom told me Prince, our Norwegian Elkhound, could tell time. (This was a clock with the hands; not a digital clock.) "Get outta here!" I replied. I never believed her, until one day, I was home from school, sick with the flu. My siblings went to school without me. As I was sitting in the kitchen for lunch, Prince walked in the kitchen, looked up at the clock, showing 1 pm, and went back & laid down in the living room. About an hour and half later, I happened to be sitting in the kitchen again when Prince made his second trip into the kitchen. He looked up at the clock, again. This time it was 2:30 pm. This time, Prince took his place on the stairs located behind the front door, so he could look out the door's window, waiting for my siblings. Fifteen minutes later, the bus carrying my siblings arrived !! Mom & I looked at each other. Mom broke out in a wide grin. I'll be, Prince could tell time !!

[@winstonelston5743]

My first elkhound, Grey, would ho to the thermostat and bark at it if she was dissatisfied with the temperature. In the blizzard of '93 she went to the door begging to go out. She got one look at the blowing snow and never went out the door, as if saying, "I don't have to go that bad."

[@BrianPell-wv2nq]

We had out Gypsy girl for eleven years. Regrettably, she got very sick and we had to put her down. Very loving and happy and loved to talk back at you. I miss her every day.

[@holi6293]

Norwegian Elkhounds are actually not found of water, they are well known for not wanting to get into water, other than that it's the best breed ever

[@volkster_braden9164]

My Norwegian elkhound acts like he is scared of water haha. He refuses to go anywhere near lakes, or even big puddles

[@trevorpullen3199]

Mine love to wade, and lay in a puddle or really shallow water. But, if their feet can't touch the bottom, they completely panic.

[@holi6293]

@@trevorpullen3199 my family has had Norwegian Elkhounds as far back as the 1940s and that's our experience too

[@ui-dovakiin4549]

Lol mine loved the water, I remember he used to jump in the lake when my neighbor was fishing and he would get so pissed lol.

[@gregorykiernan7849]

Smoke was my first elkhound and didn't like the water. He would walk around puddles to keep his feet dry. My second elkhound, Shadow would climb the stairs in and out the pool. Only problem is he never kicked with his back legs, only the front. Like lounging in my arms, especially on a hot day. I miss them...best dogs ever!

[@oliviaa7671]

I love my Luna, she’s gonna be two this April but , I want to get a cat as well but my parents won’t let us because they think she’s gonna hurt it, yes I’m young, I am 13 and Luna has been my best companion for 2 years, they are very smart and yes stubborn but I’ve been able to train her sit, lay down, get down (for if she jumps on me), give me paw, stay, go to place, off leash walks, come here, and I’ve even trained her whistle commands. She can listen, when there’s a knock or a ring she’ll run to greet the stranger. Sometimes when my little 7 year old brother chases me as play, Luna will start barking and growling and tackling him, she likes to show that she is tougher and better than him, and she is definitely stronger, and overall better company. She loves snow but she hates clean water, when we go to the dog park she will go into the water and playing with other dogs in the nasty water but when we get even just a splash of clean water on her she will freak and run. We found two baby birds in the back yard and we found one and grabbed it but Luna found the other, she was just smelling it and looking at me confused, I was suprised because usually she would try to attack anything running/ moving fast. Then I picked up the bird and Luna followed me and when I put it back down she licked it and walked away. Then a year later she caught a full grown bird in our back yard and killed then ate it, she is a great dog that all ways wants attention and to come in side the house. She also tried to catch a deer....She listens, she isn’t allowed on carpet, upstairs, or in the pantry/ we’re we store food so she doesn’t pee/ poo in those places and she doesn’t grab and destroy anything we need. They are overall very cute, and kind dogs and they love people and are BEST FRIENDS to the end......

[@connie2263]

I have some questions for people who own or have a history of owning elkhounds. I've been thinking of owning and having an elkhound as my own. Is there anything I should be warned about or know when owning an elkhound? I found often that owners that know what the dog breed is like is a more reliable source than KZbin videos in most cases. My other question is, do they cost much? Do they take a lot of care or are they relatively easy and healthy? I know many owners have told me their elkhounds were hunters, really loyal, vocal (which is a given because of the hound), and genuinely just easier dogs to take care of compared to the other dogs they've had. I've had a lot of experiences with hound dogs since I grew up around beagles which were bred to be vocal and hunting animals but didn't want to assume that it was the same as owning an elkhound. Any bits of information is greatly appreciated and useful!

[@christopher.Natural]

my dog is Norwegian Elkhound x Ausi Shepard. He looks just like this, but red/brown. my dog looks like the northern spitz you showed wow

[@computerfastrepair]

Hi all. I just got a norwegian elkhound Pup. 3 months. She is very energetic. I love it. Any tips would be appreciated. Thanks all

[@slowcarznfreedomliberty7231]

I am heartbroken my Elk hound is laying in the house. Vet doesnt think she will make it through the night. Family is around here sleeping on the couch. My Golden Retriever her best friend looks so worried and wont even eat her treats. I cant imagine life without her. She is the smartest most loyal dog that I have ever met. Please pray for my baby..... We had to put her to sleep a few days after this post. Cancer of the spleen.

[@thomasanderson9202]

I feel your pain. Lost mine a few years back. Got a new one now. I still miss my old dog but the new elkhound has of course made me smile again. I am really sorry for your loss.

[@slowcarznfreedomliberty7231]

@@thomasanderson9202 Thank you Thomas! Much appreciated! Hopefully I can talk my wife into getting another one. It will take time. She is just so very hurt right now. Kicia was her baby and this is been really hard on her and the rest of us. My Golden has been crying in her sleep. She was very close to Kicia. I have never heard a dog cry in their sleep until now. So very sad... thanks again!

[@thomasanderson9202]

@@slowcarznfreedomliberty7231 hey good to hear from you. I know how much it hurts. I was so heartbroken when I had to put my last dog to sleep. We were so close me and him. That special bond you only can get with a dog. It's been a few years now but I miss him so much and I still shed tears when I think of him sometimes. I feel so bad for that golden. The emotional pain is so hard to handle both for the dog, you and your wife. My current dog is 4 years old now. Got him only a few weeks after the last one. Here's a video that maybe will make you and your wife smile for a few seconds. It's a video of my current dog when he was 6 months old. streamable.com/hnirju I send a virtual big warm hug to both you, your wife and the golden. Your story really touch me. I think every dog lover knows the pain you all are going through.

[@annecgooch]

I'm so sorry for your loss

[@slowcarznfreedomliberty7231]

@@annecgooch Thank you!

[@courtneymangus6427]

I've had my elkhound for over 10 years now. Shes my first dog in my adult life, and I couldn't ask for a better girl. The shedding is real though 🤣

[@GeFeldz]

Very intelligent, very stubborn, very independent and very loving dogs =) They were bread for hunting moose (scandinavian elk are really moose, only a bit smaller than north american moose) and so for getting let loose in the forest, finding moose and following them around barking to make them distracted and ideally to stay in the same place until the hunter gets close enough.

[@frankieshankly5368]

I swear that the two dogs we had in my childhood/youth would have abandoned both food and water till their deaths if I cuddled them long enough.. They just loved it loved it 🥲

[@Anna-nr3up]

How many hours exercise do they need daily?

[@kiraelric2685]

The more the better but 1 to 2 hours will keep them happy.

[@autumn_leaves0]

i do 4 hours a day, but she is 1 year atm. but i want her for extrem cardio and tracking

[@Nekogirl2543]

The part about tracking elk isn't correct. Their name in Norway is "Elghund" which translates to Moose Hound. In Norway a Moose is called an "Elg". They were trained to hunt big game like Moose and Bears. I am sure they can and have been used to hunt other deer species like Elk.

[@se6369]

Moose and elk are the same animal. (Unless you're speaking a North American dialect of English)

[@halubutface]

Thanks.

[@KermRiv]

They're like European Akitas... Dope

[@crowncontrol3637]

Do these gorgeous pups get along with cats?

[@amarath84]

(My 5 centts on this is yes), if the pups grows up socializing with the cat and your cat is okey with dogs, (early is key here). but they are a hunting breed so would not recommend adding pets to the family after, that they are not socialized with.

[@rkb5496]

Was this narrator in Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels? Wtf is a DAAAAAAGG??

[@BeastyDub]

I had an Elkhound Lab mix had the color and tail of an Elkhound with the floppy Lab ears. Her name was Pogo cuz she could jump really high. She was really smart too we had a 6ft fence around our huge backyard and she figured out how to get over the fence by climbing between the fence a tree next to the fence! Lived to be 16. She was totally low maintenance compared to my current labor-doodle while equally smart not quite the same jumping ability, nowhere near the frisbee ability or independence as our elkhound lab mix Pogo was.

[@jjrockjon8610]

I owned one. Many things in this video are puzzlingly wrong. Bad info folks! They stay close off leash. Are easy to train and very obedient. Excellent with children, even babies. Hate getting wet because their THREE , NOT TWO, layers of fur takes 24 hrs to dry. Not for warm climates at all -- that's just cruel. You must enjoy brushing a dog and vacuuming. Seriously the most perfect/easiest dog I ever owned, except for the massive amount of fur. You literally can spin into yarn. I never heard him bark after puppyhood that I can remember. Not vocal at all. Elkhound comes from Elghound, which is "moose" hunter; they weren't hunting "elk". It's a translation issue. I have a pittbull now. A sweet, cuddly but needy, needy girl. I earn all this love as she sleeps up against me. Worth it. She's no Ceasar, but keeps me active. And just wipes clean! (I do bath her too)

[@teneamarise7779]

Hi! I am debating on either an elkhound or pitbull, how does the shedding compare?

[@iceyplayz3388]

Thank you so much for the video because now I know that we can’t get one, unfortunately. It would be miserable with us.

[@chrissoto7187]

There under coat is great for stuffing blankets.

[@19PumpkinKing80]

My Elkie has zero food/treat drive, but she is very eager to please.

[@BushyHairedStranger]

They are a beautiful yet very willful breed. As a high ‘prey’ driven dog they’re excellent for cold climate hunting & as property & home defense. Run this dog daily for at least 2hours, they need lots of long distance exercise.

[@kungfupanda2425]

Maintenance?

[@PyroGothNerd]

They shed a lot, especially when the weather gets warm. Brush them regularly.

[@kungfupanda2425]

Ty

[@stoutoutandaboutwithanorwe300]

Cookies & milk gacha The are prolific shedders in the spring and fall. So even with daily brushing, they are constant shedders! Also, they have black nails and you can easily cut them too short which is painful and bloody for the dog. But dang, they are good dogs!

[@balance2100]

Very emotional dog. But Very loyal

[@dadeligtfuldazzlingderika33]

On the grooming point please dont shave double coated dogs! Even if you live in a hot climate. Their double coat actually helps keep them cool and shaving them can cause long term damage. They are likely to get sunburned easier (and therefore skin cancer) and are more likely to have heat stroke shaved. It also can cause skin infections and since the shorter coat grows back faster it can leave the hair patchy and rough when it grows back.

[@seantierson2633]

Hard to train because they're independent. Me: laughs in australian cattle dog

[@bogonaumow4013]

Could you do about the swedish elkhound? @Dogs wiz

[@stoutoutandaboutwithanorwe300]

They are good dogs, but maybe not best for first time dog owners; so be sure you are ready and take the responsibility seriously. Here’s a few thoughts on what I’ve learned. I’ve only had one and take it with a grain of salt. I suggest you contact elkhound owners and associations to learn more. However, I’ve been raising dogs for almost 50 years and like to think I have some experience. - They need space to roam if at all possible. Remember that they are used to go out and chase moose (and other animals) towards the hunter. If you don’t have space, make sure they are getting plenty of walks! I wouldn’t recommend them for cities and apartment living unless you are a runner or long distance walker. - They are trainable, but not the greatest at it. (They are not what I call a “circus” dog). I think of it more as a partnership than a hierarchy of dog owner and dog! ;) I’m in charge, but he behaves best when given some freedom. - Don’t expect a hair free house! He sheds in spring and fall like it’s going out of style. - Our Fenrir doesn’t swim and it seems like others are not fond of getting in deep so I would not expect them to follow you into the lake. He however will get belly deep in a heartbeat. Even if is bellow freezing, he’ll walk into a stream. - They aren’t scared to use their voice so don’t get one if you don’t like barking. (Still better than dogs like beagles and hounds) But they are amazingly good dogs and make good companions for active people! It’s been a joy to get to know our knucklehead!

[@eckpolmick5080]

Full name is gray moose dog. The black elghund is a different breed.

[@eckpolmick5080]

Originally called hunting dog as it was not specifically for moose hunting.

[@kaitlynn8528]

My elkhound barks just to hear herself talk. House is quiet? Gotta bark. Husband goes near me? Bark. Not paying constant attention to her? Bark. Bark bark bark. And bark some more 😅 she was extremely easy to train otherwise...picked everything up in 5-10 minutes. Very smart dog. But the barking!!

[@Calderman96]

Most protective and smartest dog I’ve ever owned… tho he was a little bit of a psycho. When we ripped out the carpet and had wooden floors he couldn’t walk thru the house anymore slipping and acting like a baby giraffe…. We re carpeted the whole house lmfao

[@DG-kq8zf]

They are very easy to train, as long as you stay away from stupid pet tricks. I've owned 4 over the years. Funny personality and all different.

[@Amuzic_Earth]

Looks like a mix between Husky, GS and Shiba Inu

[@Doffen68-No]

The English name for the dog breed should have been moosedog and not elkdog. We don't have elk in Norway, but elg (moose)

[@lorelaimcwilliams3502]

Have have a Norwegian elkhound

[@nicklester6114]

My new puppy was born today

[@bidotube]

Good looking daaaaag

[@crabtrap]

We are Siberian Husky owners of 30yrs.. Huskies take a lot of seriousy bike runs and walks. How does a Norweigian compare as we are looking to mellow out as we are an older couple(50's). we would like a mellower nordic ancient spitz type breed that is ok off leash and not a carreer criminal like the Siberian Huskies are (at our age)

[@DudemanTotally]

Lol elkies are escape artists and will run if they think you are not watching them.

[@crabtrap]

@@DudemanTotally kind of what i expected! Seems these arctic breeds all have the same urge to run the show! Lol!

[@winstonelston5743]

Definitely not off lead. My boy 'Dash is a cuddle bug and has just crawled on the bed with me, under the blankets. I've had the breed for almost forty years, and they seem to get along well with just about everybody, especially gentle with elderly friends and neighbors including a neighbor in his nineties.

[@nwkitesurfer]

Probably late, but huge difference in personality. Our Husky is there for us to serve and our Norwegian Elkhound is really chill. He always comes when called off leash and never whines. He does bark at other dogs where our Husky doesn't bark at all. Husky jumps up and licks your face (I hate this wife loves it) our Elkhound comes up and sticks his cold nose on you but never licks. Our Siberian Husky is a girl and our Norwegian Elkhound is a boy so not sure how much that plays into it. Definately prefer the Elkhound

[@crabtrap]

@@nwkitesurfer thx for input. Not to late. We're just considering to future.

[@1Waarheid]

Vikings had no horns on helmets: Hollywood fantasy.

[@kevinmckown3193]

My family has ownd 4 of these doge over the year that never smell bad vary odorless dogs the elkhounds my fam has ownd has been varry excepting of my sister who has down syndrome

[@redin575]

Can't tell if just a weird accent or AI

[@goontheracoon]

Ehh, no.. i have NEVER seen a elkhound that loves whater, and i meet tones- great hunters.

[@winstonelston5743]

I was walking my Aani in a park by a river bank on a long lead. The lead went slack and I started to panic until I saw her swimming happily alongside me.

[@DudemanTotally]

Its not a good idea to shave them. Their thick coat also insulates them from the heat. Just dont be dumb and leave them in a car in the summer. And my elkie doesnt like getting wet. And he usually comes back when he is off leash tho it can be an all day outing so i would advise to keep them in sight unless you have a tracking device. Best dog ever. Not so common in the U.S.A.

[@brentrichard5570]

my elkhound is 4 and cant jump for shit

[@winstonelston5743]

My boy doesn't jump high, but his dam (mother) can clear a six-foot fence without touching the top rail.

[@silverbullet7790]

Mine is afraid of its own shadow.

[@chiickennuggets]

❤

[@ildiko1vt]

hate to disagree.....Elkhounds are NOT fond of water. I have owned three of them in the past 25 yrs, and none of them liked the water.

[@DefinitelyNotJuneeeRoblox]

I have a Norwegian elkhound and she NEVER listens EVER

[@keltiqrennee]

So I'm guessing they wouldn't make very good Service Dogs???

[@eckpolmick5080]

No.

[@keltiqrennee]

@@eckpolmick5080 why? Are they stubborn or just don't learn very fast...

[@eckpolmick5080]

@@keltiqrennee stubborn and independent

[@keltiqrennee]

@@eckpolmick5080 my last Service Dog was an Australian cattle dog...smart as heck and pushed back...tested the boundaries...never let them get ahead... Anyway...thanks for your info...

[@OhBeastLive]

Mine broke her arm 😢

[@eckpolmick5080]

Proud and stubborn.

[@xrsuperduper7660]

This dog bread is actually from southern Sweden. I dont know why we call it Norwegian elg hound

[@dragon.preosctt200]

I have one it really preyful. She had a friend who came to who your puppy She didn’t 😂 dog.

[@debbievanderpoel3022]

My girl is.so beautiful and my best friend. She is turning 13 and still the best dog.evet. I'm proud and thankful fory girl Anora.hunny bins

[@apelikemenace]

We did it in Michigan And She killed eveyrthing Bird's, Turtleses, Rats's, Voles Moles, sheep, & showed up 3 days later (With/a Sheep we think, cutest killing machine)

[@BrncsWrldordr1]

So I’m not sure why my comment got removed. But I’ll say in response to everyone that was curious. This dog runs and never listens. Chews on everything she can find. Even plays some aggressive possession. Bit me twice. Bit my mom once and bit her friend once. Only issue is I get yelled at for trying to discipline and teach her. Not sure what I’m supposed to do.

[@Deon0026yickadee]

Oh my gosh that’s horrible

[@bigcountry5520]

You should not own a dog if you don't know hot to properly train them. Based on what you wrote, you seem to be overwhelmed by the responsibility.

[@BrncsWrldordr1]

@@bigcountry5520 you’re so much help you should a counselor, it’s been more than a year, and she’s actually smart a s whip, just a lot to handle as a puppy. Maybe not say anything unless you wanna be helpful? Good try though bud

[@ooXChrissieXoo]

they are stubby spitzes

[@ilickgrandmas2854]

Gotta watch on mute the way this guy talks kills my brain

[@paganbearpompom]

So boring to hear the same bs we hear everwhere else. first of all, a dog being an independant thinker does not mean it will be stubborn, it just need to understand why they are doing what they are doing. So you need great treats and constant reinforcments for their first three years of life for the most energetic ones to get them to behave as you like. They don't need you to assert dominance over them, that's a huge misconception. They need their life to be clear to them, you need consistancy anf rigourous rules for them to be obedient and calm, these dogs need to trust you before they obey you so you must absolutely have the solution to any situation for them and if you prove them you are reliable they will trust you no matter what. For the same reasons, bonding is extremely important with them. Their prey drive is real, although just as any other dog, you can reduce it by educating them to control their emotions and instincts. It is a long and hard process but it's achievable and it's not impossible to walk elkhounds off leash, you just have to realise it will take years to make it to that point. All that crap about them being guard dogs and so on... Please stop lmao. Any dog will be guarding unless you don't teach them otherwise, it is pretty much one of the strongest instincts of the entire dog species so if you don't manage this it will get very real. Same stuff with the barking at new invitees, take the time to teach them and them will stop doing it. Tbh if you're new to dogs or new to this breed, don't take that video seriously, elkhounds are an exceptionnal breed and there's nothing that is ever set in stone with dogs behaviour, it may take years but an elkhound can reasonably be a very well behaved dog and the bonus being you will have invested so much time into them that your bond will be incredibly deep and powerful. That's what makes them so special (just like huskies, wolfdogs, shibas etc)

[@serenityrahn5656]

took my elkhound hunting one time. she froze and POINTED into some bushes. Just for laughs I decided to walk the line and flushed out a covy of spruce goose (country spouse). Best hunting dog ever!

[@gojiras6864]

For someone who texts so surely of themselves and knowledge you don't really know much when you compare 1 dog breed to all... The only thing you actually got right was... if you dedicate enough of your time to train a dog they will be a good dog... and that goes without actually having to say it.. unless of coarse in this case...

[@michaelroberts6836]

Mine is amazing, and a total shithead lol

[@khole15]

The proper name should be Norwegian Moosehound , Elg in Norwegian is moose, not elk

[@lukesimms2392]

Dahgss

[@cyndybutler7330]

I’ve got a elkhound their smart