Norwegian Elkhound

Remains of elkhound-type dogs have been found in Norwegian graves dating back over four thousand years, making this one of the oldest identifiable dog breeds still worked in something close to its original role. Traditionally used to hunt elk, the breed's job was not to kill but to track quarry silently, then bark to hold it in place, circling and dodging while the animal's attention stayed fixed on the dog rather than the approaching hunter. This demanded intelligence, stamina and considerable courage, since an elk or moose can be lethal if it charges.

Living with a Norwegian Elkhound means living with a bold, independent, thickly coated dog built for cold-weather stamina. It is loyal and affectionate with its family but can be reserved with strangers, and its hunting background means a strong prey drive and a tendency to roam if let off lead near wildlife. Training benefits from patience, since the breed's independent streak can make it selectively deaf when something more interesting is happening nearby.

The dense double coat is built to shed water and insulate against cold, and it sheds copiously, especially during the twice-yearly coat blow, requiring daily brushing during those periods. Exercise needs are substantial — this is a working hunting dog, not a lapdog, and it needs a good hour or more of activity daily to stay content and avoid destructive behaviour.

Today the Norwegian Elkhound remains Norway's national dog and continues to be used for hunting in Scandinavia, while elsewhere it is kept mainly as a hardy, characterful companion for active households.