Norwegian Elkhound — breed guide
Norwegian Elkhound — temperament, grooming, exercise, heat tolerance and care, from the Leash Life breed guide.
At a glance
- Group
- hound
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 20–25 kg (44–55 lb)
- Life span
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Thick, harsh grey double coat
Living with a Norwegian Elkhound
- High energy — needs real exercise every day, not a stroll.
- Heavy grooming — frequent brushing and regular trims.
- Constant heavy shedding.
- Trainable with consistency.
- Barks readily.
- Good with children.
- Gets along with other dogs.
- Can live with a cat, with a slow introduction and an escape route for the cat.
- Not well suited to a flat — space, exercise need or voice works against it.
- Better with previous experience behind you.
- Sensitive to heat; keep summer walks short.
- Built for cold weather.
Temperament
Bold · Friendly · Independent · Vocal
Health to watch
- Hip dysplasia
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Fanconi syndrome
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a Norwegian Elkhound good with kids?
Generally yes. Norwegian Elkhounds are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Norwegian Elkhound good with cats?
It can work, with management. Introduce them gradually, feed them apart, and make sure the cat has vertical space the dog cannot reach. Plan to manage it rather than assume it.
How much exercise does a Norwegian Elkhound need?
An hour or more of proper exercise every day.
Can a Norwegian Elkhound handle hot weather?
It is sensitive; avoid the midday heat.
Leash Life keeps a Norwegian Elkhound's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.