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Norwegian Elkhounds - Independent and Full of Energy
By: Tippy
The Norwegian Elkhound is an alert, bold, docile, energetic,
friendly and trustworthy dog. They tend to be somewhat
reserved with strangers but will greet any family or friends
with real enthusiasm. Elkhounds make great companions for
children. This breed tends to be fairly independent like
other Arctic dogs but they are affectionate with their
owners. They are a clean breed with an outstanding
character.
The male dog grows to between nineteen through twenty-one
inches in height and weighs between fifty and sixty pounds.
Females reach eighteen to twenty inches in height and weigh
between forty and fifty-five pounds. On average this dog
breed will live between twelve and fifteen years.
The Norwegian Elkhound is susceptible to
hip dysplasia, PRA
and pyotraumatic dermatitis. Occasionally in some dogs
Fanconi syndrome can occur. Be sure not to feed this dog too
much as it has a tendency to gain weight quickly.
When given enough exercise this dog will do fine living in
an apartment. It is somewhat active indoors but does best
when it has a large yard to play around in. Because of its
heritage and thick coat, the Norwegian Elkhound prefers to
live in cooler climates.
Norwegian Elkhounds thrive on strenuous activity and are
very energetic dogs. They need a long daily walk to take
care of their physical and psychological needs. Be sure to
use proper leash etiquette with this dog so that it walks
with you rather than trying to lead you.
Exercise your Norwegian Elkhound at least one hour every
day. These dogs like to roam, so be sure to never let it off
the leash unless you are in a safe enclosed area. It should
do fine running along beside your bicycle or running along
beside you as you jog.
The coarse, hard, weatherproof coat of the Norwegian
Elkhound is easy to groom. This dog sheds heavily
seasonally. Regular brushing is required and while the dog
is shedding more care should be taken with the dense
undercoat. During the shedding season the dead hair has a
tendency to stick to the new hair and may form mats if not
removed. Remove dead hair with the use of a wooden comb with
a double row of metal teeth or a rubber brush. Brushes and
combs are sold in pet stores just for this purpose.
Bathe this dog only when needed as it will remove the
natural oils from the coat and skin. The Elkhound's coat is
both dirt and water resistant and unlike other dogs, they
rarely have "doggie odor".
Norwegian Elkhound
The Norwegian Elkhound Care and Feeding Guide
Dr. Bicks, D.V.M.
The Norwegian Elkhound is a gray, hardy, dense coated
dog that is known for it's endurance. If you don't
want a dog that sheds, or requires long, brisk walks,
perhaps you should stay away from the Norwegian Elkhounds.
If you're feeding a supermarket food, a vegetable
enzyme or a skin and coat supplement, such as brewer's
yeast and garlic or a fatty acid supplement, will
help improve the coat and decrease shedding.
See my recommendation for a Quality Skin & Coat Formula
Since I can't imagine putting flea powder through
this coat, brewer's yeast and garlic is a good choice
treat or supplement to help repel fleas while
keeping the coat at it's best.
What we would like for your
Norwegian Elkhound's Feeding Needs
Natural
Treats for Norwegian Elkhounds
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