Imagine a dog that sailed with Vikings, hunted moose and bears across Scandinavian mountains, and has been so valued by Norway that the Defence Minister can legally conscript every privately owned Elkhound in a national emergency. Now imagine that same dog on your couch, barking at the postman for the third time today. That’s the Norwegian Elkhound.
This ancient spitz-type breed is one of Europe’s oldest dogs — their lineage stretches back to at least 5000 BC. They’re medium-sized, ridiculously hardy, fiercely loyal, and equipped with a bark that can be heard from the next suburb. They shed enough fur to knit a second dog, and they’ll happily hike all day before curling up at your feet like they haven’t just covered 20 kilometres.
If you’re in Australia and drawn to this silver-grey Viking companion, here’s the honest rundown — the incredible loyalty, the shedding reality, and the noise level your neighbours need to know about.
What You’ll Learn
- Breed traits & temperament
- Health concerns to know
- True cost in Australia
- Training & exercise needs
- Is this breed right for you?
Norwegian Elkhound at a Glance
| Trait | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | Hound (ANKC) / Hound (AKC) |
| Origin | Norway / Northern Scandinavia |
| Size | Males: 49–52 cm (19.5–20.5 in) / Females: 46–49 cm (18–19.5 in) |
| Weight | Males: 23–27 kg (50–60 lbs) / Females: 18–25 kg (40–55 lbs) |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years (UK study average: 12.9 years) |
| Coat | Dense, weatherproof double coat — silver-grey with black tips |
| Colours | Grey, black, silver — characteristic silver-grey with black-tipped guard hairs |
| Temperament | Bold, loyal, independent, energetic, vocal, playful |
| Shedding | Heavy. Constant year-round with major seasonal blowouts. |
| Barking | High. Bred to bark at cornered game — it’s in their DNA. |
| Good With Kids | Yes — loyal and playful with supervised children |
| Good With Other Dogs | Generally good — better when raised together. Prey drive toward smaller animals. |
| Exercise Needs | High — at least 60 minutes daily of vigorous activity |
| Puppy Price (AUD) | $2,000–$4,500+ from a registered breeder (rare in Australia) |
History & Origins
The Norwegian Elkhound is one of the most ancient dog breeds still in existence. Archaeological evidence places dogs matching their description alongside humans in Scandinavia as far back as 5000 BC. They sailed with the Vikings, herded livestock, guarded homesteads, and — most famously — hunted elk (the European moose), bears, and wolves across some of the harshest terrain on Earth.
Their hunting method is remarkable. The Elkhound tracks game independently by scent, then holds it at bay by darting in and out while barking loudly to signal the hunter’s location. This required a dog with extraordinary courage, stamina, independence, and a very, very loud voice. All of these traits are still firmly present in the modern breed.
The Norwegian name is Norsk Elghund, where “elg” refers to the European moose. The breed is genetically part of a Scandinavian sub-clade that includes other Nordic breeds like the Jämthund and Finnish Lapphund, tracing back to ancient wolf-dog hybridisation events. They are the National Dog of Norway, and the Norwegian Defence Minister retains legal authority to mobilise all privately owned Elkhounds during wartime.
The breed was first exhibited at a Norwegian dog show in 1877. The AKC recognised them in 1913. In Australia, Norwegian Elkhounds are uncommon, with only a handful of dedicated ANKC-registered breeders. Expect waitlists and limited availability.
Temperament & Personality
Living with a Norwegian Elkhound is like living with a small, furry Viking who has very strong opinions about everything and isn’t shy about sharing them. Loudly.
Elkhounds form deep, inseparable bonds. They’re loyal to their “pack” in a way that goes beyond typical dog devotion — this is a breed that has been a working partner to humans for thousands of years. They’re affectionate, playful, and genuinely enjoy being part of family life. They’re good with children, though their boisterous energy means supervision is wise with younger kids.
they’re alert and watchful. Elkhounds make outstanding watchdogs — they’ll announce every visitor, delivery driver, passing dog, suspicious leaf, and imaginary threat with a loud, carrying bark. They’re not aggressive toward people, but they’re not pushovers either. They’ll assess the situation and decide how much trust to extend.
This is a dog that was bred to make decisions on its own while tracking game kilometres from its handler. That independence is still very much present. Elkhounds are intelligent (ranked 36th for working intelligence by Stanley Coren), but they’ll weigh up whether following your command serves their interests. Training requires patience, consistency, and a good sense of humour.
Let’s be blunt — Norwegian Elkhounds bark. A lot. It’s not a behaviour problem; it’s their literal job description. They were bred to bark continuously while holding game at bay. You can manage it with training, but you cannot eliminate it. If you live in close quarters with noise-sensitive neighbours, this may not be your breed.
The Norwegian Elkhound is a phenomenal dog for active, experienced owners who appreciate independence, loyalty, and a bit of noise. They’re not for people who want a quiet, compliant dog. They’re for people who want a genuine partner with a thousand years of history and a personality to match.
Health & Genetic Conditions
Norwegian Elkhounds are a generally healthy, robust breed — their centuries of working-dog heritage has produced a tough constitution. However, they do have several breed-specific predispositions that responsible owners need to monitor.
Prevalence: A known genetic concern in Norwegian Elkhounds — responsible breeders screen for it before breeding; blind dogs can and do live very happily with appropriate home adjustments
Symptoms: Night blindness in the early stages, bumping into objects in low light, reluctance to enter dark rooms, and gradual progression to complete blindness over months or years
Treatment Cost (AUD): $500–$1,500 for diagnosis; there is currently no cure or surgical fix available
Prevention: Only buy from breeders who screen both parents for PRA — ask to see proof of testing before committing to a puppy; early diagnosis helps you prepare your home environment for your dog’s changing needs
Progressive Retinal Atrophy is a genetic condition where the light-sensitive cells in the retina gradually break down, eventually leading to complete blindness. It is painless, and Norwegian Elkhounds tend to adapt remarkably well to vision loss — particularly when their home layout stays familiar and consistent. While no treatment currently exists, responsible breeding practices using DNA screening can prevent affected puppies from being born altogether. (Source: OFA — Orthopedic Foundation for Animals)
Prevalence: A recognised concern in Norwegian Elkhounds — hip scoring of both parents is recommended before breeding; ranges from mild cases managed conservatively to severe cases requiring surgery
Symptoms: Stiffness after rest, reluctance to exercise, lameness in the back legs, difficulty rising from lying down, and gradual worsening of mobility as arthritis develops over time
Treatment Cost (AUD): $3,000–$7,000 per hip for surgical intervention; mild to moderate cases can be managed with medication, supplements, and controlled exercise
Prevention: Buy from breeders who provide hip scoring results for both parents; keep your Elkhound at a healthy weight and avoid high-impact exercise during puppyhood while joints are still developing
Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, causing the bones to grind against each other rather than moving smoothly. Over time this leads to progressive arthritis and chronic pain. It has a strong genetic component, so choosing a puppy from hip-scored parents combined with lifelong weight management gives your dog the best possible chance of comfortable, active movement well into old age. (Source: OFA — Orthopedic Foundation for Animals)
Prevalence: An inherited kidney condition documented in Norwegian Elkhounds — can be fatal if it goes undiagnosed, but is very manageable when caught early through regular urine monitoring
Symptoms: Excessive thirst and urination, weight loss, muscle weakness, lethargy, and in advanced untreated cases serious deterioration of overall health
Treatment Cost (AUD): $500–$2,000 per year for ongoing nutritional supplements and regular monitoring to replace the nutrients lost through urine
Prevention: No guaranteed prevention for inherited cases; ask your vet to include a urine amino acid screen in routine annual check-ups — early detection before symptoms become severe makes a dramatic difference in outcome
Fanconi Syndrome is a kidney disorder where the renal tubes fail to reabsorb important nutrients properly, causing them to be lost in the urine instead of being used by the body. Left undetected it can cause serious and progressive deterioration, but when caught early it is very manageable with daily nutritional supplementation. Because it can develop gradually, regular urine screening is the most reliable way to catch it before significant damage occurs. (Source: Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine)
Prevalence: Norwegian Elkhounds are among the most commonly affected breeds for this condition — linked to a specific ADAMTS10 gene mutation; regular eye pressure checks are strongly recommended throughout the dog’s life
Symptoms: Gradual vision loss that may not be immediately obvious, subtle changes in behaviour such as bumping into things, cloudiness in the eye, and in acute episodes redness, pain, and rapid vision deterioration
Treatment Cost (AUD): $1,500–$4,000+ per eye for treatment and ongoing management
Prevention: Buy from breeders who conduct eye health screening; have your Elkhound’s eye pressure checked regularly by your vet — glaucoma caught early can be managed to slow progression significantly
Primary Open Angle Glaucoma causes a gradual and painless build-up of pressure inside the eye that slowly damages the optic nerve over time. Unlike acute glaucoma which comes on suddenly and painfully, the open angle form creeps up quietly — which is exactly why regular eye pressure checks are so important in this breed. The earlier it is caught, the more vision can be preserved through medication and ongoing management. (Source: American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists)
Prevalence: Common in Norwegian Elkhounds — non-cancerous lumps that develop under the skin; usually completely harmless unless they rupture or become infected
Symptoms: Small, smooth, moveable lumps felt beneath the skin — usually cause no pain or discomfort; may occasionally discharge a white or grey waxy material if they rupture
Treatment Cost (AUD): $200–$800 for surgical removal if needed
Prevention: No guaranteed prevention; regularly run your hands over your dog’s coat during grooming to monitor any lumps — have any new or changing lump checked by your vet promptly
Sebaceous cysts form when a skin gland or hair follicle becomes blocked, causing a pocket of material to build up under the skin. In most cases they are entirely benign and can simply be monitored rather than treated. However if a cyst becomes red, swollen, or starts to discharge, it may have become infected and will need veterinary attention. Any lump that changes in size or appearance should always be checked by a vet to rule out anything more serious. (Source: VCA Animal Hospitals)
Prevalence: Extremely common in Norwegian Elkhounds — they are highly food-motivated and gain weight very easily; obesity directly worsens joint disease and significantly shortens lifespan in this breed
Symptoms: Visible weight gain, reduced willingness to exercise, difficulty breathing after mild activity, worsening of any existing joint or mobility issues, and a waistline that is no longer visible from above
Treatment Cost (AUD): Prevention cost only — managed entirely through disciplined feeding and exercise with no medication required in most cases
Prevention: Measure every meal carefully, resist those pleading eyes at the table, limit treats strictly, and ensure daily exercise — an Elkhound will always act hungry even when they are not, so portion discipline from day one is essential
Norwegian Elkhounds were bred to work hard in harsh conditions, and their metabolism reflects that history — they are extremely efficient at extracting energy from food, which means they can gain weight on portions that would keep other breeds lean. Obesity in this breed is not just a cosmetic concern — it accelerates joint deterioration, strains the heart, and can shave years off an otherwise healthy dog’s life. Strict portion control and regular weigh-ins are among the most loving things an Elkhound owner can do. (Source: Australian Veterinary Association)
The Norwegian Elkhound Association of America recommends hip evaluations and ophthalmologist evaluations for all breeding dogs. Ask any breeder for these results, plus PRA screening. The breed’s predisposition to eye conditions makes annual eye checks particularly important.
Lifespan & Longevity
The Norwegian Elkhound lifespan is 12–15 years, which is excellent for a medium-sized dog. A 2024 UK study found an average life expectancy of 12.9 years — slightly above the purebred average of 12.7 years. Some Elkhounds live well into their mid-teens with good care.
Key longevity factors: Keep them lean — this is the single most important thing you can do. Elkhounds love food and will overeat if allowed, and obesity dramatically increases cancer risk, joint disease, and heart problems (the breed’s top causes of death). Feed measured portions, resist those soulful brown eyes begging for scraps, and maintain at least 60 minutes of daily exercise throughout their life. Regular eye and kidney monitoring from middle age onwards catches breed-specific issues early.
Grooming & Care
If you own a Norwegian Elkhound, you own a lint roller. Probably several. That thick, weatherproof double coat is magnificent and functional, but it sheds constantly — and during the twice-yearly coat blowouts, it sheds spectacularly.
Grooming Schedule
| Task | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brushing | 3–5 times per week (daily during blowouts) | Use an undercoat rake and slicker brush. 2–5 minutes daily keeps it manageable. |
| Deshedding Sessions | Professional: twice yearly (spring & autumn) | Book a professional deshedding groom during coat blowouts. Worth every dollar. |
| Bathing | Only a few times per year | The coat is naturally weatherproof and self-cleaning. Over-bathing strips natural oils. |
| Nail Trimming | Every 3–4 weeks | Active dogs may wear nails naturally on hard surfaces. |
| Ear Cleaning | Weekly | Erect ears stay well-ventilated. Quick check for debris and wax. |
| Teeth Brushing | 2–3 times per week | Standard dental care. Start early for compliance. |
Never shave a Norwegian Elkhound. Their double coat insulates against both cold and heat, protects against sunburn and insect bites, and may not regrow correctly if shaved. Brush regularly instead.
Exercise Needs
Norwegian Elkhounds are high-energy dogs that need at least 60 minutes of vigorous exercise daily. They were bred to track game across mountain terrain for hours — a quick lap around the block won’t cut it.
Ideal activities include long hikes, trail running, swimming, fetch in large open spaces, and scent-tracking games. They excel at activities that engage both body and mind. A bored Elkhound with excess energy will bark more, dig more, and generally find creative ways to entertain itself (usually involving your furniture or garden).
Australian climate warning:
Elkhounds are cold-weather dogs with a thick double coat designed for Scandinavian winters. They can overheat in Australian summers, especially in northern and inland areas. Exercise should be restricted to early morning or late evening during hot weather. Provide shade, fresh water, and air conditioning. They cope well in cooler southern states and during Australian winters, which feel like spring to a dog bred for Norwegian mountains. Never shave them to “cool them down” — the double coat actually helps regulate temperature.
Training Guide
Training a Norwegian Elkhound is an exercise in negotiation. They’re intelligent and capable — but they were bred to work independently, and that independence means they don’t always see the point of doing what you ask just because you asked it.
Socialisation & Training Timeline
| Age | Focus Area | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 8–16 weeks | Socialisation, bite inhibition, handling | Critical window. Expose to people, dogs, sounds, environments. Puppy school non-negotiable. |
| 4–6 months | Basic obedience, lead walking, bark management | Teach “quiet” command immediately. They’re food-motivated — use it. Short, fun sessions. |
| 6–12 months | Recall, impulse control, off-lead training (fenced areas) | Recall is a lifelong project. Their nose leads them astray. Work in progressively distracting environments. |
| 1–2 years | Advanced obedience, scent work, agility | Channel their energy and intelligence into structured activities. Scent work is a natural fit. |
| 2+ years | Maintenance, mental enrichment, hiking partner | A trained Elkhound is a joy on the trail. Keep reinforcing basics — they’ll test boundaries forever. |
Training difficulty: 6/10. Not because they’re slow — because they’re independent. They need a handler who is consistent, patient, and interesting enough to compete with whatever their nose has found. Positive reinforcement with food rewards works best (they are extremely food-motivated). Harsh corrections destroy trust and make them more stubborn, not less. Not recommended for first-time dog owners.
Cost of Ownership in Australia
Norwegian Elkhounds are uncommon in Australia, which affects both availability and pricing. Ongoing costs are moderate — they’re medium-sized and generally healthy — but that thick coat means grooming is a line item.
| Expense | One-Off / Setup | Annual Ongoing |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Puppy (ANKC) | $2,000–$4,500+ | — |
| Desexing | $400–$800 | — |
| Food (premium medium breed) | — | $1,200–$2,200 |
| Vet Check-ups & Vaccinations | — | $300–$600 |
| Pet Insurance | — | $600–$1,500 |
| Flea/Tick/Worming | — | $200–$400 |
| Grooming (tools + deshedding) | $100–$250 (tools) | $300–$800 (2–4 professional sessions) |
| Bedding, Crate, Toys | $200–$400 | $100–$250 |
| Training | $300–$1,000 | — |
| Council Registration | — | $20–$200 (varies by LGA) |
Estimated first-year cost: $5,000–$11,000 AUD. Estimated annual ongoing cost: $3,000–$6,000 AUD.
Finding a breeder:
Norwegian Elkhound breeders are rare in Australia. Start with Dogs Australia (dogsaustralia.org.au) and DogzOnline.com.au. You may find breeders in NSW, VIC, QLD, and SA, but numbers are very limited. Expect waitlists. A reputable breeder will provide hip scores, eye certifications, and PRA screening results. Be prepared to travel interstate to collect your puppy.
Rescue:
Norwegian Elkhound rescues are extremely rare in Australia. Contact breed clubs directly or monitor PetRescue.com.au for spitz-type breeds.
Is the Norwegian Elkhound Right for You?
you’re an active person or family who can provide at least 60 minutes of vigorous daily exercise, you have experience with independent breeds, you live in a cooler climate or have reliable air conditioning, you have a securely fenced yard, you can tolerate heavy shedding and regular grooming, you don’t mind a vocal dog (and your neighbours don’t either), and you want a deeply loyal, intelligent companion with genuine working heritage.
you live in an apartment with noise-sensitive neighbours (they bark — a lot), you want a low-energy, low-maintenance dog, you’re a first-time dog owner (their independence requires experienced handling), you can’t commit to serious daily exercise, you hate dog hair (it will be everywhere, always), or you live in a hot climate without air conditioning.
If you’re comparing breeds, the Jämthund (Swedish Elkhound) is a larger, closely related cousin. The Finnish Spitz shares the vocal hunting style in a slightly smaller package. The Siberian Husky has a similar look and energy level but is even more independent. The Swedish Vallhund is a more compact Scandinavian breed with lower exercise needs.
In three lines: The Norwegian Elkhound is a living piece of Scandinavian history — a bold, loyal, intelligent breed that thrives with active owners who respect their independence. They’ll shed on your couch, bark at your visitors, and follow you to the ends of the earth without hesitation. If you want a dog with Viking spirit and a heart of gold, the Elkhound delivers — just bring earplugs and a lint roller.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Norwegian Elkhound cost in Australia?
Expect $2,000–$4,500+ AUD from a registered breeder. Norwegian Elkhounds are uncommon in Australia with very few breeders, so prices reflect limited availability. Waitlists are common.
Do Norwegian Elkhounds shed a lot?
Yes. Norwegian Elkhound shedding is heavy and year-round, with two major seasonal blowouts in spring and autumn. Brushing 3–5 times per week is essential, and professional deshedding sessions during blowout season are highly recommended. They are not hypoallergenic.
Are Norwegian Elkhounds good family dogs?
Yes, for the right family. They’re loyal, affectionate, and good with children when supervised. However, they need experienced owners, at least an hour of daily exercise, and tolerance for barking and shedding. They’re not ideal for sedentary households or first-time owners.
How long do Norwegian Elkhounds live?
The average Norwegian Elkhound lifespan is 12–15 years. A 2024 UK study found an average of 12.9 years. Keeping them at a lean, healthy weight is the most important factor in longevity — obesity is a major risk in this food-motivated breed.
Do Norwegian Elkhounds bark a lot?
Yes. Barking is deeply ingrained in the breed — they were bred to bark loudly and continuously while holding game at bay. You can train a “quiet” command to manage it, but you cannot fully eliminate the behaviour. They make excellent watchdogs but poor apartment dogs.
Are Norwegian Elkhounds aggressive?
No. Norwegian Elkhounds are not an aggressive breed. They’re alert and watchful, but they’re typically friendly once properly socialised. They can be reserved with strangers and may not back down from a confrontation with other dogs, but outright aggression is uncommon.
Are Norwegian Elkhounds good guard dogs?
They’re outstanding watchdogs — they’ll alert you to anything and everything. As true guard dogs, they’re moderate. They’re bold and won’t shy away from a threat, but they’re not purpose-bred protection dogs like German Shepherds or Rottweilers.
Are Norwegian Elkhounds hypoallergenic?
No. Their heavy shedding and dense double coat produce significant dander. Norwegian Elkhounds are not suitable for people with dog allergies.
How big do Norwegian Elkhounds get?
Males typically stand 49–52 cm (19.5–20.5 inches) at the shoulder and weigh 23–27 kg (50–60 lbs). Females are slightly smaller at 46–49 cm and 18–25 kg. They’re a medium-sized, sturdy, squarely built breed.
Can Norwegian Elkhounds handle hot weather?
They tolerate it but don’t love it. Their thick double coat is designed for Scandinavian cold. In Australian summers, restrict exercise to cool hours, provide shade, water, and air conditioning. They cope well in cooler southern states and during winter.
1. American Kennel Club (AKC) — Norwegian Elkhound Breed Information: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/norwegian-elkhound/
2. PetMD — Norwegian Elkhound Health & Care Guide: https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/norwegian-elkhound
3. Wikipedia — Norwegian Elkhound: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norwegian_Elkhound [FOLLOW]
4. Hill’s Pet — Norwegian Elkhound Breed Profile: https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/dog-breeds/norwegian-elkhound
5. WebMD Pets — What to Know About Norwegian Elkhounds: https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/what-to-know-norwegian-elkhounds
6. ASPCA Pet Health Insurance — Norwegian Elkhound Guide: https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/resources/norwegian-elkhound/
7. DogTime — Norwegian Elkhound Breed Information: https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/norwegian-elkhound
8. Dogs Australia — Breed Information: https://dogsaustralia.org.au/