National Dog Show Norwegian Elkhound Dog Breed Guide

The Norwegian Elkhound is an ancient dog breed with a rich history dating back over 4,000 years.

This breed originated in Norway, where they were bred to hunt and track small and large game.

Their distinctive physical characteristics, such as their wolf-like appearance and erect ears, make them a unique and recognizable breed.

Norwegian Elkhounds are highly intelligent and energetic dogs that require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

The Norwegian Elkhound's physical characteristics are truly impressive. The hind legs are strong, lean, and muscular, with broad upper thighs and a lower thigh of medium length. This sturdy build allows the dog to move effortlessly.

Moderate angulation at both the stifle and the hock is a notable feature of the Norwegian Elkhound's hind legs. This means that the joints are well-defined, allowing for a smooth and efficient gait.

The coat is another defining feature of the breed, with a thick, hard, weather-resistant, and smooth-lying texture. It's made up of a coarse, straight outer coat and a soft, dense, woolly undercoat.

The ears of a dog are very mobile, able to move freely as the dog listens or responds to its surroundings. They are set high on the head, firm and erect, which allows them to pick up even the faintest sounds.

The ears are relatively small, but they are higher than they are wide at the base. This unique shape allows them to rotate and move with precision.

When a dog is listening intently, its ear orifices are turned forward, as if drinking in every sound. This is a clear sign that the dog is focused on what's happening around it.

In contrast, when a dog shows affection or is feeling relaxed, its ears tend to go back, a sign of contentment and calmness.

A unique perspective: National Dog Show 2023 Time

The body of this breed is short, powerful, and compact.

The chest is deep, which is one of its defining features.

Well-sprung ribs account for most of the body length, giving it a unique shape.

The back is straight and strong, highest at the withers.

The tail is set on firmly, completing the overall appearance.

The loin is short, broad, and muscular, providing a strong foundation.

The croup is broad and strong, adding to the overall power of the body.

The hind legs of this animal are truly impressive, with strong, lean, and muscular composition.

Broad upper thighs provide the necessary power and stability for movement.

A lower thigh of medium length suggests a balance between strength and agility.

Moderate angulation at both the stifle and the hock allows for smooth and efficient movement.

The coat of this breed is truly one of its standout features. It's made up of a coarse, straight outer coat and a soft, dense, woolly undercoat.

The outer coat is smooth, short, thick, and rich on the head and front of the legs. This is a key characteristic that sets it apart from other breeds.

The neck, buttocks, chest, hind part of legs, and underside of the tail have the longest hair, which adds to the overall texture and appearance of the coat.

Altering the coat by trimming, clipping, or artificial means is strictly not allowed, which means you'll see the coat in its natural state at a show ring presentation.

The Norwegian Elkhound is a medium-sized dog with a muscular build, weighing between 35-50 pounds and standing between 19-23 inches tall at the shoulder.

They have a short, dense coat that's a mix of black and white colors, with a distinctive black mask on their face.

Their thick coat helps them stay warm in cold climates, which is perfect for their native Norway.

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The gait of a well-bred dog is a joy to behold. The stride is even and effortless at the trot.

As the dog picks up speed, its gait becomes more pronounced, single tracking with ease. The back remains level, a testament to the breed's agility and endurance.

The breed's construction is perfectly suited for agility and endurance, with a well-balanced angulation and muscular development. This is reflected in the dog's gait, which should be smooth and effortless.

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When considering movement and size, it's essential to understand the physical characteristics of the animal in question.

Males stand at a height of 20½ inches at the withers.

The weight of males is about 55 pounds.

Females stand at a height of 19½ inches at the withers.

The weight of females is about 48 pounds.

If this caught your attention, see: Norwegian Elkhound Weight