The Black Norwegian Elkhound is a modern subspecies of the gray Norwegian Elkhound dog. This is a unique hunting dog, originally from Norway.

Brief description of the breed

Mainly used for elk hunting. The Norwegian Elkhound has a unique tactic – having tracked down and driven the beast, he dodges attacks and, barking at a moose, keeps him until the hunter arrives. In addition, Norwegian Elkhounds are used to hunt large games (lynx, wolf, bear), as well as small games (like a retriever).

Thanks to its excellent instinct, it can detect moose on the trail from a distance of several kilometers. Uses a wide range of barking signals.

Good watchman. Dogs of this breed have proven themselves well in agility, protection, they are excellent guard dogs, they graze livestock well, and can be harnessed to a sled for transporting goods.

In Europe, dogs of this breed often “work” in nursing homes, brightening up the leisure of the elderly.

History of the Breed

It is reliably known from archaeological sources that the Black Norwegian Elkhounds existed with humans four to five millennia before the beginning of the new era. Excavations carried out by scientists on the territory of modern Norway have unequivocally shown that the tribes living in this territory have tamed the animals, which they used to feed wild animals. From the remains found during excavations, it was possible to recreate the appearance of these four-legged human helpers, and it turned out that the ancestors of the Black Norwegian Elkhound do not differ much from the modern hunting dogs of this relatively rare breed of dog.

In the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries, the Vikings from Norway used hunting dogs, the ancestors of the modern Black Norwegian Elkhound, to hunt moose or wild boars. Over time, the final name took root: Black Norwegian Elkhound.

From the beginning of the eighteenth century, work began to breed and improve the hunting qualities of the Black Norwegian Elkhound. The exterior was not particularly taken care of, since the dog itself is perfectly adapted to the harsh conditions of the northern countries.
In 1965. year, the final standard for the breed of hunting dogs was finally adopted.

Appearance

Outwardly, this dog is very similar to a husky, slightly below average size. the height at the withers is 47-49 cm for boys and 44-46 cm for girls. Weight from 17 to 25 kg.

The physique is light, muscular, but not massive. Body proportions are correct. The back is straight, the chest is well developed, the abdomen is tucked up. Paws are muscular, the bone is not wide, the neck is sinewy, not very long. The head is proportional, light, narrow jaws, correct bite. The ears are set high, erect, triangular in shape. The eyes are dark brown, intelligent. The tail, like all huskies, is curled in a tight ball.
The coat is coarse, thick, with a dense undercoat. On the neck, chest, and tail of medium length, on the lower part of the legs, and on the muzzle, the hair is short.
The color for this breed of dogs, only black, which is not surprising, other colors of this particular breed of Norwegian Elkhound are naturally not allowed.

Characteristics and Personality

Black Norwegian Elkhound has a level-headed personality. She is very mobile, hardy, quick in movement. Playful loves children. Aggression manifests itself exclusively during hunting and only in relation to prey. In other situations, it is a cute and friendly animal. She is not suitable for the security service, but as a watchman, it can be applied: he will give a signal with his sonorous bark.
The working hunting qualities of the Black Norwegian Elkhound are simply excellent: he is able to find and hold a large ungulate animal until the owner approaches, or he can take it out for a shot. It works best in a small flock of about three individuals, but a single husky is also good.

Care and Maintenance

The thick coat of the Norwegian Black Elkhund should be brushed every day. She needs to be given at least five minutes a day to rid the pet of hairs that have fallen out, and this will also keep the apartment clean. You need to bathe your dog as needed, no more than once a month.

Do not forget about the hygiene of the ears and oral cavity of the pet. It is recommended to inspect them weekly, and the regrown claws should be cut about once a month.

The eyes are a weak point in dogs of this breed. They often suffer from diseases such as glaucoma, retinal atrophy, and cataracts. Do not neglect preventive examinations by a veterinarian.

The energetic Norwegian Elkhound feels great in a private home where he has access to the street. These are freedom-loving dogs that need long active walks and sports. Elkhound can live in a city apartment, but the owner must be prepared for hours of walking.

Education and Training

The Norwegian Black Elkhound is a versatile hunter that is renowned for its diligence, hard work, and cheerful disposition. He is incredibly loyal to his master, ready to protect him until his last breath.

However, breeders also note the difficulties of raising representatives of this breed. Thus, the Norwegian black Elkhound is independent and self-reliant. The training process is a game for him, but he wants to play according to his own rules. Do not be surprised if in the middle of the exercise he stops and, as it were, asks you with a glance: “Maybe that’s enough?” Therefore, the owner of an elkhound should be patient and affectionate, but not too gentle.

Health

The most typical diseases for this breed are skin atheromas, joint dysplasia, and obesity.

Life expectancy is 12-15 years.

How to Choose a Puppy

The above-mentioned features of appearance and character refer to purebred Black Norwegian Elkhound, that is, to those whose pedigree has been confirmed by official documents for several generations.

Future owners who are interested in a particular breed should look for a puppy only from trusted breeders and in kennels with an excellent reputation.