Pet Wiki

Black Norwegian Elkhound

Also called Norwegian Elkhound Black, Norsk Elghund Sort, Black Elkhound

Bold, spirited and full of energy in the forest, yet affectionate at home.

SizeMedium
Weight16 to 20 kg (35 to 44 lb)1
Height43 to 49 cm (17 to 19 in)males 46 to 49 cm, females 43 to 46 cm21
CoatDense, rough double coat
OriginNorway, from local spitz-type hunting dogs in the forests along the Norway-Sweden border.21
GroupFCI group 5
Recognised breedShort profile
fearless
energetic
good with children
21

Personality what they are like

Bold, spirited and full of energy in the forest, yet affectionate at home. It is a clever dog that enjoys close contact with its family and is generally good with children.21

Coat and looks how to spot one

dense, rough double coat

A compact, square-built spitz with pricked ears and a tightly curled tail. The coarse outer coat lies close over a soft, woolly undercoat, staying short on the head and front legs and growing fuller on the neck, chest, hindquarters and underside of the tail.21

Coloursshining black (small white markings on chest and feet allowed)2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Black Norwegian Elkhound. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

  • BrushingDaily during heavy sheddingevery 3 days
  • Double coats insulate against cold and heat, so shaving is not recommended
  • Bathevery 10 weeks
  • Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
  • Ear checkevery 2 weeks
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
  • ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
  • Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
  • Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

High. A working elk-hunting dog that needs long daily outings and does best with an active job such as hunting, hiking or tracking.21

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The weather-resistant double coat is easy to keep with a regular brush, done more often when the undercoat is shedding.21

Home where they are happiest

Built for Nordic forest and cold weather; suits an outdoorsy home with plenty of space and regular time in nature.2

Company who they like around

A people-oriented dog that likes physical closeness with its family.1

The story where it all began

Black spitz dogs used for elk hunting in the Norway-Sweden border forests were described by the naturalist Llewelyn Lloyd as early as 1828. The black elkhound has been kept as a distinct breed since the mid-1800s and remains a working hunting dog, uncommon in Norway and very rare elsewhere.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    'Elghund' is Norwegian for elk dog, which in Europe means the animal North Americans call a moose.1

  2. 2

    The earliest written description dates from 1828, when a naturalist noted two black hunting dogs with upright ears and curled tails.1

  3. 3

    It is smaller than its grey cousin, with males ideally standing about 47 cm at the shoulder.2

  4. 4

    Under the FCI standard, a hunting trial is part of the breed's requirements only in the Nordic countries of Norway, Sweden and Finland.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name 'Norwegian Elkhound Black' (Norsk Elghund Sort) reflects its origin in Norway and its traditional use as a hound for hunting elk (moose), with 'Black' distinguishing it from its grey sibling breed.1

Name ideas for your new friend

AstridBjørnFjellFreyaKodaLarsLokiNoraOdinRunaStormTundra

A day in the life told by a Black Norwegian Elkhound

I wake my human with a happy bark, time for our morning run in the woods! I love the smell of pine and the crunch of snow under my paws. We track elk trails for hours, and I feel so alive. Back home, I curl up on the sofa and let the kids pet my thick fur. At dinner, I rest my head on a knee, just to be close. Every day is a perfect blend of wild adventure and cozy family time.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard no. 268 (Norwegian Elkhound Black), Group 5 (Spitz and primitive types), Section 2 Nordic Hunting Dogs; standard dated 09.08.1999, country of origin Norway. Working trial required only in the Nordic countries.2

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Black Norwegian Elkhound tip

Black Norwegian Elkhounds are food-driven and gain weight easily, so use treats sparingly and factor them into their daily calorie allowance. Because they are prone to inflammatory bowel disease and dental problems, choose low-fat, easily digestible treats and consider dental chews to help keep their teeth clean, but always ask your vet for advice tailored to your dog.

Source: petmd.com

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Black Norwegian Elkhound, and at what times?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests feeding adult dogs at least two meals a day, with puppies needing three to four smaller meals. The exact times can be set to fit your routine, but avoid free feeding for puppies. For specific amounts, always check the food label and consult your vet.3 Pet Wiki plan

What should a Black Norwegian Elkhound eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, xylitol, onion, garlic, and raw meat or bones. Always avoid these and ask your vet for a complete list.4

How often should I bathe a Black Norwegian Elkhound?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests bathing about every 10 weeks, but the ASPCA recommends at least once every three months. Bathe more often if they get very dirty or have skin issues. Use a dog-specific shampoo and avoid over-bathing to protect their double coat.5 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Black Norwegian Elkhound need brushing?

Brush every three days as a starting plan, and daily during heavy shedding seasons. Their weather-resistant double coat is easy to maintain with regular brushing. This helps remove loose fur and keeps the coat healthy.21 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Black Norwegian Elkhound's nails, and how often?

Trim nails about every four weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part inside). If you're unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.5 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Black Norwegian Elkhound need?

This breed has high activity needs and thrives with long daily outings, such as hiking or tracking. Pet Wiki's starting plan includes daily walks and play. They are working dogs and do best with an active job or plenty of time in nature.21 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Black Norwegian Elkhound's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth daily if possible, at least two to three times a week, using dog toothpaste only. Check ears every two weeks and clean gently without pushing anything into the ear canal. For specific techniques, ask your vet.5 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Black Norwegian Elkhound live?

Lifespan varies by individual, but senior years usually start around age 8. Regular vet check-ups and a healthy lifestyle support a long life. For breed-specific averages, consult your vet or a good breeder. Pet Wiki plan

Is a Black Norwegian Elkhound good with children and other pets?

Yes, they are generally good with children and enjoy close contact with their family. Their temperament is affectionate at home. Early socialization helps with other pets, but individual temperaments vary.21

Can a Black Norwegian Elkhound be left alone?

This is a people-oriented dog that likes physical closeness with its family, so they may not do well left alone for long periods. It varies by individual; ask a good breeder or your vet for advice based on your dog's personality.1

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. Black Norwegian Elkhound, Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for other names, history, weight, temperament, fun facts
  2. FCI Standard No. 268, Norwegian Elkhound Black fci.beused for recognition, height, coat, colour, temperament, use
  3. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  4. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  5. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.