Buyer question
Is a Norwegian Elkhound good for beginners?
It can be: our Animal Library rates the Norwegian Elkhound 3 out of 5 for beginners (fine with active owners).
Source: the Norwegian Elkhound page in the Everybarn Animal Library. Norwegian Elkhound in the Animal Library
The detail
An ancient Norwegian spitz bred to track moose and hold them at bay with barking until hunters arrived, the Elkhound is bold, friendly and hardy. It is a loyal family dog, but it barks a lot and sheds heavily.
- Temperament
- Bold, friendly, independent
- Best fit
- Active families, cold climates
- Trainability
- 3 out of 5 (Smart, independent)
- Energy
- 4 out of 5 (1 hr exercise daily)
- Grooming load
- 3 out of 5 (Weekly brush, heavy shed)
What to weigh
Elkhounds bark to hold game, so they bark at home too. They shed heavily, overeat if allowed, and wander off to follow a scent.