Norwegian Shepherd Buhund: where to buy, maintenance and care, photo of the breed

The Norwegian Elkhound is a northern Spitz-type dog breed used primarily for moose hunting. Recognized as the national breed of Norway. A wonderful family dog, a companion, strongly attached to family members and the owner, but at the same time remains independent and independent. Hardy and very viscous in work. Also suitable for hunting other large and small animals. Norwegian Elkhounds come in gray and black colors, they are very similar in appearance and character, but are considered separate breeds, each with its own standard.

2 Appearance
3 Character and behavior
4 Education and training
5 Contents 5.1 Care

6 Health and life expectancy

7 Where to buy a Norwegian Elk puppy

7.1 Price

8 Photos and videos

8.1 Video about the dog breed Norwegian Elkhound (Norwegian Elkhound)

History of the breed

The ancestors of the Norwegian dog are considered to be pets that lived in Scandinavia 5-7 thousand years ago. Archaeologists have discovered the fossilized remains of these dogs in Viking burials.

The height at the withers of dogs is 49-52 cm

To understand which country the Elkhound comes from, you need to look at the name of the breed. These dogs are the national symbol of Norway and have a long history. At the moment, the exact year of origin of the elkhound is unknown. However, for the first time representatives of the breed were shown at an exhibition in 1877. Since 1962, Norwegian dog breeds have been officially recognized by the Federation Cynologique Internationale.

There are many variations of the name of the breed: gray husky, Norwegian Elkhuand, Viking dog. Literally translated, the official name sounds like “elk dog.” This nickname appeared due to the dog’s ability to hunt large animals, including moose.

History of the origin of the breed

The breed has several names - Norwegian buhund, husky and shepherd dog. In Norwegian, "buhund" means "farm dog."

The breed is very ancient and has maintained its purity for many centuries. In 1880, a ship of the Vikings, ancient warriors and legendary sailors, was found. In the early Middle Ages, they sailed on their longships to the northern shores of Africa. On their hikes they were accompanied by dogs - the ancestors of modern Buhunds. This was confirmed by a discovery at the end of the 19th century - next to the remains of people there were six skeletons of dogs. Geneticists from Oslo have established their direct connection with the Norwegian Shepherd.

In the 17th century, representatives of the Norwegian husky were brought to Iceland and Greenland. Since that time, the Buhund has been considered a separate breed. The first dog exhibition was organized in the city of Jerene in 1920. The show was initiated by D. Sealand and T. Raanaas. Subsequently, friends began to purposefully breed the breed and improve its qualities.

The year 1939 was marked by the creation of the national Norwegian Shepherd Club. After this, the popularity of the breed spread to all Scandinavian countries and the British Isles. Over the next few years, amateurs from Norway created clubs throughout the country. The breed became equally widespread in neighboring countries - Swedish and Danish organizations appeared.

For reference! The International Canine Organization officially recognized the breed in 1963.

The Scandinavian Shepherd was classified as a member of the Spitz group, a primitive breed. The shepherd was classified as a subgroup of northern watchdogs. Another function of this type of dog is to herd livestock.

Tail characteristic of the breed

Unique Specialization

Despite the name (elghund from elg elk and hund dog), the Norwegian husky elkhound is quite versatile and immensely talented: fearless and very powerful dogs, in addition to baiting large animals, perfectly perform the weapon complex against small game and all types of birds (search/flying/finishing wounded animals/apportation). Large individuals willingly work in harness and demonstrate excellent performance in guard and guard disciplines.

They are smart, friendly and well-coordinated animals: Norwegian Elkhounds make great family dogs, companion dogs, and family dogs.

Characteristics and description of the breed

East Siberian Laika: description of the breed

The Norwegian Husky is a northern dog that has an independent character. Elkhounds are adapted to survive in harsh conditions, but at the same time they are friendly and loyal to their owner.

Benefits of huskies:

Description, appearance standard

Buhund dogs are not large individuals, typical Spitz dogs. External data is as follows:

Head. Not heavy, with a wedge-shaped muzzle, proportional to the body. The skull is flat, the upper part is parallel to the muzzle. The transition from forehead to muzzle is not sharp, but well expressed. The ears are beautifully erect. The mouth with black lips has a full set of teeth. The tip of the nose is black, as are the oval-shaped eyelids. Eye color is dark.
Torso. The neck is of medium length, muscular. The spine line is short, straight, strong. The chest is well developed with curved ribs. The back does not sag, the shoulders are straight.
Tail. A characteristic feature of Norwegian Shepherds is that the tail is curled into a ring and laid over the back with a deviation to the side.
Limbs. On straight front legs, the elbows are pressed to the body, the wrists are strong, giving the appearance of a tireless runner. Hind legs with muscular thighs and strong legs.

The height of males at the withers reaches 48 cm, weight - up to 18 kg. Bitches grow up to 45 cm and gain 13-15 kg of weight.

Wool, color

The fur of Norwegian Shepherds is thick and coarse with a soft and dense undercoat. The fur is short on the limbs and face. On the torso, neck and hips - medium length. On the neck there is a “collar” of longer and thicker wool. The hair reliably protects animals from northern frosts.

The color of purebred animals corresponds to the breed standard:

Black - monochromatic, without shimmer or interspersed with white hairs and spots.
Red - shades of different saturations from light to golden are acceptable. The hairs at the tips may be black, but this does not affect the main color. Unlike strictly monochromatic black, blurry spots are possible on a light color scheme.

Important! Red-haired individuals often have a dark mask, which does not contradict the standard.

Dogs feel great on walks

Wool

The Norwegian Elkhound has a luxurious coat, typical of northern dogs - gray, coarse hair with a light silvery soft undercoat. Such a cover is not afraid of any bad weather. There is a lush woolen collar on the animal’s neck. On the face, tip of the tail and ears the coat color is almost black.

The color of this breed resembles the coat of a wolf - gray wool with a light gray undercoat. The animal's fur requires special attention during shedding, which occurs seasonally; it is very active. The Norwegian Elkhound requires weekly brushing and combing with a special brush, which helps to minimize free hair loss.

Since this dog cleans itself naturally, it should only be bathed when absolutely necessary.

Tips for choosing puppies

Funny Norwegian Shepherd puppies
Before buying pets, owners decide on the gender of the future pupil and for what purpose they are purchasing it. If the dog is for apartment living, then you can choose a female. They are more affectionate, but you will have to face the problem of estrus. A male dog is more suitable for protecting households outside the city.

Tips on how to choose a puppy:

You should not buy purebred dogs from an advertisement from unverified ones - there is a high probability of running into scammers who will sell a mongrel puppy. It is better to contact a nursery.
You should not take puppies from the first litter - the offspring may turn out to be weak.
To find a good breeder, it is best to contact the region's kennel club.
When purchasing a purebred animal, you must require all documents: metrics, pedigree, vaccination card.
You need to buy socialized individuals - the puppy must be active, inquisitive and not shy.

Future owners pay special attention to the puppy’s health: it must be well-fed and have all its milk teeth. The fur is shiny, the eyes are shining, without crusts or bleeds, the skin is without defects - this is how the baby’s appearance should be.

Norwegian Shepherds are wonderful companions and are suitable for home keeping. These are friendly, gentle creatures of medium size. They are easy to train and devoted to family.

Disadvantages and disqualifying vices

Karelo Finnish Laika: description of the dog breed

The Norwegian Elk Husky does not always meet breed standards. There are a number of defects, the presence of which can disqualify a dog and not allow it to compete. These signs include:

disproportionate shape of the skull;
too short or sharp shape of the muzzle;
presence of a bite other than a scissor bite;
light eyes;
ears that are too large, droopy and wide;
insufficiently curled or short tail;
coat color different from the standard;
the presence of additional toes on the hind legs;
aggressive behavior.

Maintenance and care

The Buhund's coat does not require special care, except during periods of intense shedding, when daily brushing is necessary. It is usually carried out twice a week. Washing your dog at the peak of shedding will make it easier to get rid of loose hair. Being clean by nature, Buhunds do not need frequent washing; they do not have the dog smell typical of many other breeds. General hygiene procedures are also recommended - trimming nails, brushing teeth and ears. Representatives of this breed have irrepressible energy, which is why they need daily games and stress, and if they are lacking, they are capable of destructive actions.

Exterior Features

The Buhund, or Norwegian Shepherd, is a strong, compact, square dog. On the dry, pointed head are dark, small eyes and pointed, erect ears. The massive short neck of this breed smoothly flows into a strong, well-defined withers and straight back.

The dog has a dense, muscular body with a deep chest and tucked belly. Under the harmoniously built body there are dry and strong limbs with oval paws. The dog's high-set short tail is curled into a ring and laid on its back. The height of an adult animal ranges from 41 to 47 centimeters. At the same time, the Norwegian Buhund weighs on average 12-18 kilograms.

Representatives of this breed are covered with thick, hard, tight-fitting hair. The wheat color of the animals varies from light cream to a reddish hue. The standard allows for a dark mask and the same tips of guard hairs.

Distinctive features

The Norwegian Shepherd must meet the following FCI standards:

The head is wedge-shaped, with pronounced contours, not heavy. The skull appears flat, the line parallel to the muzzle. The stop is clear.
Scissor bite, straight bite is considered a defect. Overshot and undershot are disqualifying faults.
The lobe is exclusively black. A pink or liver tint is a significant drawback.
The eyes have an oval shape, the iris is as dark as possible. The eyelids are only black. Eye color that is too light and their protrusion is considered a defect.
The neck is set high and has no dewlap.
The ears are fully erect; any other position is grounds for disqualification. The tips are pointed.
The tail is a dense ring, lies on the back, slightly thrown to the side. Weak twist or drooping is a fault.
The body is compact; a defect is considered to be too light a build or, conversely, heavy and rough. Deviation from the standard in height is allowed no more than 1 cm below the border or 2 cm above. The back line is straight and short.
Legs are straight and straight. The elbows are not turned out and are adjacent to the body. The legs and thighs are muscular, the angulation of the hind legs should not be too pronounced.
The movements are light, the back always remains straight during the move. Short steps are considered disadvantages.
The coat is two-layered. The upper level is thick and coarse hair, the lower level is soft. The coat is straight, very short on the head and front of the body, slightly more pronounced on the collar of the neck, chest area, tail and feathering of the hind legs. Long hair is a defect.
The color is biscuit (from pale to golden red) or black. White spots are allowed, but minimal and small in size. For a light tone, a mask on the face and dark tips of the coat are allowed.

Pet character

Yakut Laika: characteristics of the dog breed

The Scandinavian Elkhound is a balanced and friendly dog. He is fearless, but does not allow himself to be overly aggressive. Tries to show a good attitude towards everyone around him, but if necessary, he can protect himself and his owner. From the first days in the house, the dog understands who its owner is, quickly becomes attached to the person and becomes a true friend. These pets exhibit all the qualities of a companion dog and love all family members, including children.

Interesting! The Norwegian Black Elkhound differs from the Gray Husky in its energetic character, while the Elk Dog is calmer and more flexible.

If there are other pets in the house, difficulties may arise. The dog is accustomed to being a leader and therefore is jealous of other animals nearby, especially if a person pays a lot of attention to them. If you want to have several pets at once, it is recommended to take them at the same time as the Elkhound puppy. When the kids grow up together, it will be easier for them to find a common language.

Training

Norwegian Huskies are considered quite difficult to train, but this is not due to low intelligence, but because of the stubbornness, independence and complex temperament of the northern dogs.

The owner must have good endurance and patience in the process of training his pet. This is why it is not recommended for inexperienced dog breeders or those who do not have enough time to train to own an Elkahund.

Representatives of this breed, deprived of proper upbringing, can be difficult in life with a person and cause certain inconveniences, try to show willfulness and dominate the owner.

When raising an Elkahund, cynologists recommend being affectionate and caring owners; it is important that the pet feels your love and kindness. At the same time, it is necessary to show firmness and determination.

Summing up

The national treasure and symbol of Norway, the Laika Elkhound is an ideal hunting dog. Natural beauty, flexible character and rare working talents bring the breed to the forefront of commercial Spitz-like animals. When thinking about purchasing a Norwegian masterpiece, you need to clearly understand: the breed is difficult to support and educate, and requires a huge investment of personal time, effort and finances.

Laika

If you find an error, please select a piece of text and press Ctrl + Enter.

Education and training

Although the Norwegian Gray Elkhound has high intellectual abilities, it is usually difficult to train. If a dog gets bored during training, it begins to ignore its owner and get distracted by its own business. Since pets are intended for protection, they must be raised from childhood. Otherwise, the dog will grow up with an uncontrollable character. Due to their stubborn nature, training can take a long time and it will take much more time to train one team. The owner must remember not to give in to the dog and follow its lead. Perseverance and determination on the part of a person will help achieve their goals. From the first walks, the puppy should become acquainted with other dogs, undergoing socialization.

Note! During training, you must not be rude or cruel to the dog.

Every owner should reward the dog for following a command.

Training, education

Norwegian Shepherds are bred to be trained and trained. They are very smart and grasp everything on the fly. They learn without much effort on the part of the owner and easily master commands.

But you can't relax. Training begins at suckling age; by six months it is already a socialized pet, with excellent characteristics if you skillfully combine training with games.

Physically, dogs are distinguished by more energy, tirelessness and endurance than strength.

Training a commercial husky

Upon successful completion of socialization, education and training courses, the time comes for hunting practice. Training a game dog is a responsible and very difficult job. Experienced game wardens and rangers train young Norwegian moose hunters in equipped areas with the help of older and more experienced hunting dogs. During training sessions, the hunting conditions of young animals (voice, viscosity, passion) are assessed and gentle training is carried out. Norwegian Elkhounds get used to gun shots and become familiar with the techniques of tracking and baiting large game.

Dogs are attracted to “serious” hunting when they reach the age of two. Until this moment, the young animals are taken “to the field”, but are not allowed to participate in the hunt, only showing the carcasses of killed animals to the young dogs.

How to properly care for a Norwegian Elkhound

When choosing this breed, you should remember that Norwegians do not tolerate heat. Winter frosts and rainy days are optimal for them. During the hot season, it is necessary to keep the dog in the shade and not limit access to water. These dogs love to swim.

The coat should be cleaned every week using a small comb or brush. It is necessary to examine the animal's ears and eyes daily. Otherwise, Elkhounds are unpretentious and do not require special conditions.

Note! It is not advisable to keep dogs in an apartment. In such a space there is little space for dogs, and reduced activity is harmful to their health.

Caring for a Norwegian Shepherd

Pets of the Buhund breed adapt to any conditions. But it is more comfortable for them to live outside the city in a private household. At the same time, keeping an enclosure is painful for them. They can spend little time in enclosures.

Nutrition

It is advisable to keep Norwegian Shepherd dogs on a natural diet. They should see beef, chicken, turkey, and rabbit meat without heat treatment. It is not necessary (and not advisable) to serve premium quality beef (tenderloin). There is no need to grind the meat. Dogs are carnivores, so do not be afraid of raw foods, including liver and beef tripe.

Bukhunds are not threatened by worms from raw meat - their stomachs contain a high concentration of acid, which kills helminths.

Important! The Norwegian Shepherd's diet should include fermented milk products, but they should be given separately from meat.

You should not get carried away with porridge - gluten disrupts the intestinal flora. Sea and river fish are also given raw, but, like meat, they are first frozen. A Buhund dog should have access to water around the clock.

Hygiene

Laikas are very clean, they get dirty a little. They bathe dogs as needed using special shampoos. It is better to comb the coat 2-3 times a week. When dogs shed, their coat needs more grooming.

If dogs live in an apartment, their nails need to be trimmed.

Walking and physical activity

These dogs need to be exercised, otherwise they get bored and lose interest in the world around them. Systematic training, command training, and walks are recommended.

When living in a city apartment, representatives of the breed need walks 2 times a day for an hour. In the designated areas, you can remove the leash and muzzle and let the animal run around.

What to feed

The Norwegian elkhound is one of the most unpretentious dogs. Owners must decide for themselves which food to choose for their pet - ready-made or natural, based on their capabilities. If the choice is on dry food, then its class should be “premium”, “holistic” or “super-premium”. These products are manufactured based on the physiological needs of large dogs and contain all the necessary substances.

When choosing natural food, you should keep in mind that the bulk of the diet should be lean meat and offal. You are allowed to add sea fish to your food 3 times a week. Be sure to include vegetables and grains in your diet. Once every 2 weeks you can give your pet kefir or cottage cheese.

Note! Elkhounds are prone to obesity, so it is necessary to monitor portion sizes and avoid overeating.

Care and maintenance

The best habitat for both black and gray moose huskies is a country house with a large plot.
Animals are accustomed to living in freedom, and limited space greatly oppresses them. If a person nevertheless decides to have an Elkhound in an apartment, he will have to devote at least three hours a day to active walks. The elk husky should have a kennel in the yard where it can shelter from bad weather. It is prohibited to keep freedom-loving animals on a chain. This approach is fraught with mental disorders, the emergence of unmotivated aggression and distrust of people.

The right diet

The Norwegian elk husky is not a picky eater and does not have any particular taste preferences. The diet of both gray and black elkhund can consist of ready-made food or natural food.

In the first case, pets are bought high-quality premium, super-premium or holistic products. Cheap food contains artificial additives and ballast substances, and therefore inevitably leads to health problems.

Many breeders believe that natural nutrition is preferable for primitive breeds. Then moose huskies are given lean meat (beef, rabbit, chicken and turkey) and offal - they account for 40–50% of the total food. The rest of the diet is formed from:

rice, buckwheat and millet porridges;
fermented milk products;
vegetables and fresh herbs.

Once a week, Norwegian elk huskies are given sea fish and chicken eggs. In winter, when animals require more energy, the amount of protein food is increased.

Walking and physical activity

Even if kept outdoors, a moose husky must be taken outside twice a day. The duration of exercise should be at least 1 hour. The dog will be happy to go into nature - to the forest or to the shore of a reservoir. She will happily accompany her owner on a jog, bike ride or hike.

Training and education

The Norwegian Elk Husky is intelligent, but can be quite difficult to train. This is due to independence and willfulness - the pet will not blindly follow commands. In order to raise a manageable and obedient animal, training begins immediately after the puppy appears in the house.

The baby is not touched for a couple of days so that he gets used to the new environment and gets to know the owner.

After this he is taught:

come when called;
wear a collar and leash;
observe standards of behavior and not violate prohibitions;
sleep on a couch.

When the vaccination quarantine ends, the Norwegian elk husky is taken outside and actively socialized. The dog should not be afraid of city noise, strangers and unfamiliar animals. More and more busy streets are chosen for walks, constantly changing routes so that the pet gets a complete picture of the world around him.

On walks and during games, the Norwegian elk husky learns the commands “Come to me!”, “You can’t!”, “Ugh!”, “Place!”. At 3–4 months, she is taught to sit and lie down on command, and to walk next to her owner on a loose leash. Over time, the lessons become more complicated, supplementing orders with gestures and endurance training.

You need to talk to the puppy more in a friendly tone. If the pet is stubborn, the intonation is changed to strict, and they achieve what they want without the use of violence. The child is sincerely praised for correct actions. Treats provide additional motivation. And although the Norwegian Laika is a hunting breed, it will be useful for it to undergo OKD.

Dogs that are planned to be used for hunting begin to be trained in the field at six months. It is better to do this in the company of experienced dogs, since the Norwegian Elk Husky has a developed imitative instinct. Trained puppies become good hunters at 8–10 months.

Care and hygiene

Black and gray moose huskies require minimal hygiene. Coat care comes down to weekly brushing. During the molting period, the fur is treated with a slicker every 2-3 days.

The Norwegian moose dog is quite clean - it will not step in puddles, roll in the mud or dig through garbage. Its coat is capable of self-cleaning, so bathing is required in exceptional cases.

Ears are cleaned once a week, eyes are wiped with an antibacterial solution when discharge appears. The claws are trimmed as they grow, if the Norwegian elk husky does not grind them down on his own. To maintain dental health, she is given large bones or dental treats to chew on.

Some dog breeders clean the dog with a special brush and veterinary paste about once a week.

Scandinavian diets

The Norwegian husky is undemanding in matters of nutrition: like all representatives of the commercial Spitz family, moose huskies are absolutely omnivorous. This is the result of the current way of life: hunting dogs have never been pampered with an exquisite menu and an abundance of portions. Laikas were always fed only when working “in the field,” using classic yukola (dried fish meat) as the main food.

Modern dogs are fed better quality and more varied; a meager and primitive diet has a negative impact on the health, working conditions and appearance of the pet.

The optimal choice for the daily nutrition of hunting dogs is industrially prepared ready-made diets and elite-class wet canned food. This is a professional formula: balance and saturation with everything necessary for life, a wide range and amazing practicality. The “super premium” and “holistic” food items take into account the age characteristics and physiological status of the dog, and contain, in addition to nutrients, all vitamin and mineral supplements.

The diet should be adjusted depending on the time of year and the activity of the animal:

to compensate for energy costs in the cold season, you need to focus on feed with a high content of proteins and fats;
the volume of a single serving should not exceed three percent of the dog’s weight;
when going fishing and participating in competitions, the amount of food (calorie content of the diet) increases by a third.

An adult Norwegian Husky is fed twice a day. Regardless of the food format, the dog should always have free access to drinking water.

Character

The Elkhound is an independent creature. Like other huskies, these dogs are independent and smart. But their most important quality is devotion to the owner. Elkhounds have another feature - they are extremely sensitive to affection and praise.

The Norwegian Elkhound is a friendly animal. The dog is cheerful and cheerful, but has self-esteem. From a very early age, the puppy needs a demanding, firm but affectionate approach. He gets along well with kids and adults, but is completely intolerant of cats and other pets. I would like to emphasize the Elkhound’s special attitude towards children. When playing with them, the dog shows such touching caution and accuracy that there can be no doubt that it cannot even inadvertently offend the child. This dog is a great friend for children. He is wary of strangers, but does not show aggression.

It is worth noting that the Norwegian Elkhound dog is extremely hardy and agile (reviews from the owners confirm this). She loves to run cross-country. The elk husky will happily go with its owner for a bike ride, a walk, or any outdoor activity. The Elkhound is a very smart dog. He instantly learns all the owner's commands.

A dog living in a family is very active and is very attached to its owner. You need to treat her kindly, but firmly. You should not spoil such a pet.

Health and life expectancy

Dogs do not have a tendency to specific diseases, but standard deviations are noted. Almost all large pets are at risk of developing hip dysplasia. This pathology is hereditary and is associated with failures in the formation of joint parts. The first symptoms of the disease appear at the age of 6 months. If signs of illness appear, the dog must be shown to a doctor.

Life expectancy of the breed is 11-15 years

Dossier

Adult height: 48-54 cm. Weight: 16-24 kg. Characteristic color: gray, black. Coat length: short on the head, limbs, long on the neck, legs and lower abdomen. Life expectancy: 13-16 years. Advantages: security and hunting abilities. Difficulties: independence, complex character. Average price: $450-600. Classification: medium size, hunting, pet.

Norwegian Buhund

Description:

The Norwegian Buhund is one of the most ancient dog breeds. Translated from Norwegian, “buhund” means “peasant dog” - initially they were kept and bred exclusively by peasants. According to one version, Bukhunds originated from Norwegian Spitz dogs. Representatives of this breed performed any work on the farm. They guarded the house and the plot, protecting it from the invasion of strangers, grazed herds of cattle, herded deer, and harnessed themselves to sled dogs. The Norwegian Buhund served as the basis for the creation of another breed - the Icelandic dog. In the 20s of the 20th century, the breed became widespread in Great Britain. However, with rare exceptions, Buhunds were practically not exported from Norway - which means they are little known outside its borders.

The Norwegian Buhund is characterized by energy, endurance, vigilance and a love of herding. He is ready to herd anything that moves: cattle, small farm animals, pets and even people.

In order to stay in shape, the Norwegian Buhund needs long, active walks. He has a huge amount of strength and energy, an excess of which a dog cannot get rid of in a city apartment or while walking at a stadium. However, it is possible to keep a Norwegian Buhund in an apartment. It is only necessary to constantly give him significant physical activity. The dog is very hardworking and will happily take on the task.

Norwegian Buhunds are non-aggressive and have a positive attitude towards members of the family in which they live. They love children and enjoy taking part in their noisy games. But they don’t favor strangers. The guardian instinct inherent in the Norwegian Buhund makes them aggressive towards anyone who violates the boundaries of “their” territory.

The dog is easy to train and is suitable for participation in exhibitions and competitions.

FCI breed standard No. 237:

Characteristics of the breed. Adapted to life in nature, a very energetic and courageous dog, very independent. She is calm, friendly and cheerful, making her an excellent family dog. If the situation calls for it, she is aggressive and is therefore considered a good watchdog. Endowed with an outstanding sense of smell, which she uses when hunting birds. Maintenance and care. Can adapt to life in the city provided there is sufficient physical activity. Regular brushing and combing are required. Usage. Herding dog (deer, sheep), guard dog, universal service dog, companion dog. Head . Wedge-shaped, dry. The skull is almost flat. The transition from forehead to muzzle is marked. The bridge of the nose is straight. The muzzle is short, tapering towards the nose. Lips tightly fitting. Eyes . Dark. Must match the color of the dog. Ears . Pointed, held strictly vertically. Frame . Short, compact. The neck is dry and rather short. The chest is deep. The ribs are well sprung. The back is straight and strong. The lower back is strong. Limbs . Lean, muscular, with strong bones. The paws are compact, oval in shape. Tail . Set on high. The dog keeps it tightly rolled into a ring above his back. Covered with thick hair. Hairline . The coat is thick, dense, hard, and close-fitting. On the head and front surface of the limbs - short, on the neck and front of the chest - longer. The undercoat is soft, thick, fluffy. Color . Red (from light red to golden red, a mask is possible) or pure black. White markings on the front of the chest, a collar on the neck and small spots on the paws are acceptable. Height at withers . Males: 43 - 47 cm. Females: 41 -45 cm. Weight . Males: 14-18 kg. Females: 12 – 16 kg.

Share
Tweet

Choosing a puppy and its cost

The cost of a puppy depends on its pedigree. The minimum price is 650 euros, and the maximum can reach 2000 euros.* In Russia at the moment the breed is practically not widespread, so you need to look for a nursery in Norway. However, dogs can be taken out of the country after receiving permission from RORS.

When choosing a pet, you should pay attention to its appearance and activity. The Norwegian Elkhound will become a true friend in any family and will happily give love to its owners.

*Prices are current as of December 2021.

Scandinavian hounds, breed standards, breed history

SCANDINAVIAN HAINS

Scandinavian hounds are obtained by crossing Russian, French and German hounds with the English Foxhound. Now they are used in hunting hare or fox, where they drive the animal towards the hunter with loud barks. With their build, they are well suited to the conditions of the hunting region - mountains or dense forests.

➡ NORWEGIAN HOUND. DUNKER

The Dunker, or Norwegian hound, is a dog from the Scandinavian hound group. The breed was bred by Wilhelm Duncker, after whom it was named. The ancestors of the Dunker were Russian, German and French hounds, and the English Foxhound. Dunker is an excellent hunter, works well on the trail in the forest and mountains, and can work in deep snow conditions. Dogs of this breed are very hardy. They are passionate hunters with excellent instincts. The dogs are tri-colored or bluish merle, and the Dunker's eyes are amazingly blue. Dunkers are hunting dogs; life in a city apartment can turn into punishment for them. For this reason, breeders give puppies only to those families where the dog can hunt, since its innate instincts do not disappear. Dunkers are used to hunt foxes and hare. Caring for a dunker is easy. The coat must be brushed regularly; washing the dog frequently is not recommended. Dunkers are distinguished by enviable health, they are not prone to diseases, and can easily tolerate heat and temperature changes. Thick and dense wool allows the Dunker not to be afraid of the cold.

➡ HIGENHUND

The Higenhund is a very rare breed of hunting dog. In 1830, this breed was bred in Norway and was named after the famous Norwegian dog breeder Higen. The breed is practically unknown outside the Scandinavian countries. This is a muscular, beautiful and strong dog. The head is massive, elongated, with a wide skull and strong jaws. The coat of these dogs is short and flat. The color can be yellow, red, black-brown, as well as white with yellow or red spots. The Higenhund is excellent at searching for wounded animals by following their blood trail. This is a very calm and intelligent dog, she has a sense of self-esteem. The Higenhund loves to live outside a residential area; it is better not to have one in the city. As a rule, Higenhunds are kept in enclosures, however, these dogs cannot tolerate low temperatures, so it is worth taking care of a warm kennel in which the dog can wait out the cold.

➡ FINNISH HOUND

The Finnish Hound evolved from numerous breeds introduced into Finland beginning in the 18th century. Among her ancestors are English Foxhounds, Harriers, Kerry Beagles, German, English and Swiss hounds, Russian Harlequins and Kostroma hounds. The first mention of Finnish hounds dates back to 1850, but the most important role in the fate of the breed was played by the jeweler Tammelin, who lived in Pori. In 1870, he began breeding and selecting Finnish hounds and obtained a total of 23 generations (1,762 dogs). The selection was aimed at consolidating excellent working qualities and adaptability to the conditions of a harsh snowy winter. The appearance of the dog was taken into account to a lesser extent, but in the breed standard approved by the Finnish Kennel Club in 1932, the tricolor color was finally established. The breed was recognized by the International Canine Federation in 1954.

➡ HAMILTON'S HOUND

The Hamilton Hound is a hunting breed of hound dog developed in Sweden in the 19th century. This is a very hardy hunting dog with excellent eyesight and sense of smell. Their main specialization is fox and hare hunting. Representatives of this breed prefer to hunt on their own; they are rarely used for hunting in a pack. Having discovered a wounded animal, the dog lets the hunter know about it with a loud bark. Very popular in the lands of their native Sweden. However, due to the fact that this is a very loyal dog, with an obedient character, very easy care and little pickiness, it is often purchased as a companion, a children's guardian, and a family favorite. The breed began to gain particular popularity only after the 20th century, when its representatives increasingly began to appear at exhibitions.

➡ SMOLAN HOUND

The homeland of the Småland Hound is Sweden. It got its name from the area of Småland, where it was bred. The progenitors of this breed have been used by the Swedes to hunt foxes, hares and other game since the Middle Ages. Over time, the purpose of the dog has not changed - today it continues to show itself as an excellent hunter. Representatives of this breed are capable of tirelessly chasing an animal for a long time. They adapt to work on any terrain and in any weather conditions. They have a keen sense of smell. The Småland Hound is small in stature, but at the same time has significant weight. Despite this combination, the dog does not look overweight, but compact. She is strong, muscular, bony, well built. Breeders of Småland hounds are constantly working to improve the breed. Puppies are given only to those people who are interested in seriously training the dog and using it as a hunter. Despite the compact size of the Småland Hound, it is poorly suited for living in an apartment. This dog needs space, fresh air and the opportunity to realize its instincts. Smoland hounds have a huge reserve of strength and energy, the excess of which they need to splash out on long active walks. By nature, the Smoland hound is a calm and self-possessed dog. She is distinguished by her extraordinary intelligence and devotion to her owner.

➡ HALDE HOUND

The Halden Hound (Haldenstover) is a small hound with a deep chest and a strong, strong body, very hardy and energetic. The coat is short, shiny, with an attractive color: white with black spots on the back, gradually turning into reddish-brown on the head and hips. The roots of the Halden Hound breed go back to various breeds of hounds in Europe, mainly its ancestors were Foxhounds. The Haldenstover has only its own characteristics and differs from other breeds of hounds; the breed is considered purely Norwegian. This hound works very well on the scent and is successfully used for hunting various game in Norwegian conditions. The Halden Hound is a fast, hardy hunter, pursues prey for a long time and at a fast pace, and is not afraid of the cold. Works alone on a hare and other animals. Maintenance and care Requires space for movement, great physical activity and regular brushing of the coat. Use Hunting dog. Standard approved in 1997

➡ SWEDISH HOUND. SCHILLERSTEVARE

Schillerstevare was developed in the 19th century by Pierre Schiller in southwestern Sweden. This breed is also called the Swedish Hound and the Schiller Hound. These dogs were bred exclusively for hunting purposes. As a rule, they were used to work on fox and hare. The Swedish hound works briskly and quickly, is distinguished by hunting passion and great endurance. Basically, dogs of this breed are common in Scandinavia; outside its borders, Swedish hounds are little known. Those who are planning to get a Schillerstevare should remember that the dog needs long walks and physical activity.

Where to keep a dog

The Norwegian Elkhound is a dog that is not particularly suitable for an apartment. The best place for him is the courtyard of a private house, and especially with a household, where he can prove himself as a security guard. Moreover, this dog will definitely inform the owner that someone has arrived, bursting into loud barking. And the neighbors from the high-rise building are unlikely to like such a neighborhood.

Important! The Elkhound is resistant even to Siberian frosts, but it is difficult for him in the heat. In the summer he needs to drink a lot and stay in the shade, otherwise he may suffer from heatstroke.

Features of character and behavior

The initial impression of a dog can be deceiving as it makes them seem very angry. This is facilitated by wearing muzzles, which are used when walking the dog. This is done more to ensure the safety of the dog itself, so that while running they do not start biting other dogs.

The Greyhound is a very gentle and non-aggressive breed, but with highly developed instincts.
If they are not hunting, they are very calm at home. They become attached to their owner and love to stay at home. They sleep a lot, do not require much space, love to play, and are very good-natured. They rarely bark.
They love to be in the company of people or dogs. They are indifferent to animals of similar size, but they perceive all smaller animals as prey and run after them. Few of them stand a chance of escaping the Greyhound.

Advantages

The advantage of the breed is the lack of a tendency to overeat. The dogs are loyal and very brave when hunting. Careful towards people, calm, intelligent.
They communicate well with children and quickly get accustomed to a new place. They are imbued with love for every family member and are not aggressive towards strangers.

Flaws

The main disadvantages of the breed include the following:

They chase every living thing that moves, due to a strong hunting instinct. In the village they can hunt for their neighbors' chickens and cats. You cannot have pets if there is already a Greyhound in the house;
The need for early socialization to increase self-confidence;
Pack instinct. If there are several representatives of the breed in the house, then a hierarchy is clearly formed - one becomes the leader. But it is not advisable to keep dogs together, since they will arrange constant skirmishes and fights for the right to dominate the pack.