Black Norwegian Elkhound

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Black Norwegian Elkhound (also called Norsk Elghund Sort) is a newer breed originating in Norway in late 18th century. It is a variant of the ancient, stone age dogs, the Grey Norwegian Elkhound. The name "Elghund" translates to "moose dog" as these were developed purposefully to hunt down the moose. The Black Norwegian Elkhound is a medium size friendly and outgoing dog with a robust and strong body. It has height and weight between 18-21 inches and 40-60 lbs respectively.
The dog is squarely built with a wedge-shaped head and flat skull. The muzzle is short with straight nose bridge. The nose is black and eyes are dark brown and oval shaped. Wide erect ears are set high on the head. Neck is medium length and firm. The loin is broad, straight and well-developed. The belly is slightly tucked up. The body is well adopted to extremes of weather with strong straight forearms and muscular lean hindquarters. It has thickly coated short and curled up tail. The dense and close fitted coat of the Black Norwegian Elkhound is rough and comes in shiny black color.

The dog is built to perform under difficult weather conditions and on difficult terrain. It can go about its required task relentlessly and tirelessly. It has amazing stamina and endurance and makes great hunting companion. This dog is not only used as hunting dog, this multi-utility animal can be used effectively for herding, guarding and protecting purposes.

This dog is NOT recognized by AKC however it is recognized by other kennel clubs including FCI and DRA.

Color

As the name suggests, the Black Norwegian Elkhound comes in shiny black color with small white markings on chest and feet.

Coat

The coat is short, dense and double coat. The outer coat is weather-resistant, thick, hard and coarse while the inner coat is soft and wooly.

Personality

The Black Norwegian Elkhound, though a vivacious hunter, is a friendly and affectionate family dog. It is very kind and gentle with all the family and specially children; more so when raised with them from puppyhood. This dog is very playful and lively when acting as home pet. It makes great playmate for children as well as very loving, loyal and devoted family companion. The Black Norwegian Elkhound has a burning desire to please its owners and is obedient and respectful to them. It is a very intelligent and social dog that generally gets along well with other dogs in the family due to its social nature. The Black Norwegian Elkhound is very alert and attentive to its surrounding and makes an excellent watch and guard dog. It has an independent nature and needs a firm owner who can establish his superiority over the dog. Very energetic and work loving, this dog needs constant physical and mental stimulation. It is not a suitable dog for apartment dwellers nor is it an ideal family pet for inactive families. The dog is best suited to suburban or rural environment where it can run and play freely. Early age socialization with other people, places and other pets in the family is very important. The dog can not be trusted with small non-canine pets due to its hunting instincts. A properly trained and socialized dog will be an excellent working and companion dog for the whole family.

Care

An easy to groom coat of the Black Norwegian Elkhound will need once a week brushing except for seasonal shedding periods. The coat is very clean and dispels dirt and water easily. Bathe only when necessary as frequent bathing will strip the coat of natural weather-resistant oil. Moreover, the dog does not have dog smell and is generally a clean breed.

Training

Training is easy specially when started at dog's young age. The Black Norwegian Elkhound is eager to please and intelligent working dog that will enjoy innovative and short training sessions. The trainer must display proper leadership skills.

Activity

Besides being a hunting dog, the Black Norwegian Elkhound is also used as herding and sled dog. Its high energy levels call for greater exercise needs. The dog will be happy when assigned some task to complete. A daily long walk accompanied by plenty of activity will keep this dog happy and content.