Norwegian Elkhound

Norwegian Elkhound Grooming Profile

Norwegian Elkhounds are medium-sized, energetic dogs that reach full physical maturity by age two. They possess a dense double coat with heavy year-round shedding and severe seasonal blowouts, requiring regular brushing and daily diet care of 3 to 5 cups.

Breed Group

Spitz Dogs

Country of Origin

Norway

Breed Size

Medium

AKC Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1913

FCI Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1963

Allergy-friendly

Worst Choice

1 / 10

Shedding

Heavy

Grooming need

60-90 mins/week

4 / 10

Low-maintenance

Hard due to high exercise needs and demanding seasonal grooming

3 / 10

Size

Medium

7 / 10

Growth timeline

12-18 months

5 / 10

Grooming FAQ

Are Norwegian Elkhound hypoallergenic or allergy-friendly?

Norwegian Elkhounds are not hypoallergenic. They have a dense double coat that sheds heavily, releasing significant amounts of dander and hair into the home. They are not recommended for individuals with allergies to dogs.

Allergy-friendly: 1 / 10

Do Norwegian Elkhound shed?

Norwegian Elkhounds are heavy shedders. They lose hair moderately year-round and experience massive seasonal 'blowouts' twice a year. During these periods, they shed their dense undercoat profusely, requiring daily brushing and frequent vacuuming to manage the fur.

How often should you groom a Norwegian Elkhound?

You should brush your Norwegian Elkhound two to three times a week to manage their thick double coat. They require grooming every other day and daily brushing during heavy seasonal shedding to manage "tumbleweeds" of undercoat. They only need occasional baths.

Grooming need: 4 / 10

Are Norwegian Elkhound low-maintenance dogs?

Norwegian Elkhounds are moderately high-maintenance. Their dense coat requires frequent brushing, especially during shedding seasons. Additionally, they are highly energetic, stamina-filled hunting dogs that demand vigorous daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

Low-maintenance: 3 / 10

How big do Norwegian Elkhound get?

Bluetick Coonhounds are large sized dogs. Standard weights are 55-80 pounds for males and 45-65 pounds for females. Their physical build is well-suited for their historical purposes and active lifestyles.

Size: 7 / 10

When do Norwegian Elkhound stop growing?

Norwegian Elkhounds typically reach their full adult height between 12 and 18 months of age. While they achieve most of their skeletal growth by their first birthday, these sturdy dogs continue to fill out, develop muscle mass, and reach full physical maturity by two years old.

Growth timeline: 5 / 10

How much should a Norwegian Elkhound eat?

Adult Bluetick Coonhounds should eat a balanced diet divided into two meals a day. Highly active hunting hounds may require up to 5 cups of food daily. Portion sizes depend on their age, size, and activity level.

Feeding amount: 5 / 10

How often should a Norwegian Elkhound puppy eat?

Norwegian Elkhound puppies should be fed three to four small meals a day to support their rapid growth. Use a high-quality puppy formula and transition to two meals a day at six months of age to maintain a healthy weight.

Puppy feeding frequency: 3 / 10

Vet Insights

Norwegian Elkhounds are medium-sized, energetic dogs that reach full physical maturity by age two. They possess a dense double coat with heavy year-round shedding and severe seasonal blowouts, requiring regular brushing and daily diet care of 3 to 5 cups.

Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
VeterinarianResearcherDog breed specialist
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