Collection: Personalised Norwegian Elkhound Gifts

The Norwegian Elkhound was originally a hunting dog, bred to chase and hold at bay Elk in the northern parts of Norway...well, you would think that but in fact, the name is a complete mistranslation of the original Norwegian. The Elkhound was bred to hunt Moose, Bear and Wolves, not Elk, a distinction lost in translation.

A member of the Spitz family, they are a solid breed with plenty of speed and stamina. They are also noisy as part of their inherited traits is to trap a prey animal and then bark until the hunter arrives.

There are two varieties of the breed one of which tracks prey whilst on a leash, the other working loose to catch prey. The Norwegian Elkhound is still a fairly rare and specialist breed in the UK.

The Norwegian Elkhound is an ancient breed with a back story that dates from around 5,000 BC. Used by the Vikings as hunting dogs, this dog is able to track prey animals over huge distances including hunting at night which was one of their most prized characteristics.

In the 1800s when Wolves were dominant and attacking homesteads, Elkhounds were used as guard dogs to offer protection against these predators. The breed appeared for the first time in the UK in the 19th century and has a small niche following.

The Norwegian Elkhound is a strong-willed breed and needs firm training and socialisation from an early age. They have boundless energy so require an active home with plenty of stimulation and outdoor exercise.

They are sociable and very happy dogs if kept properly and make tremendous and devoted family pets. They thrive on attention so are the perfect companion for a busy household.