The Black Norwegian Elkhound dog is a breed of dog. It is a modern variant of the Grey Norwegian Elkhound. It is a small spitz breed and is very rare outside the Nordic countries of Scandinavia. The breed is also known by some other names such as Norsk Elghund Svart, Norsk Elghund Black, Black Elkhound and Norwegian Moose Dog.
As the name suggests, the Black Norwegian Elkhound dog is from Norway. It is bred for the same purpose as the Grey Norwegian Elkhound but is smaller, more agile and easier to recognize in the snow.
Historically, it is a much younger breed, first bred in Norway during the early 19th Century. It is classified as a hunting dog by the FCI, although it is also used as watchdog, guarddog and herder.
The AKC breed name “Elkhound,” comes directly from its original Norwegian name “Elghund,” meaning “”elk dog” or moose dog.” In Norwegian, “elg” refers to the animal English speakers know as an “elk” or “moose”, and “hund” means “dog.”[1]
Black Norwegian Elkhound Dog Characteristics
The Black Norwegian Elkhound dog is a medium sized breed with very beautiful appearance. It is a typical Spitz breed with a short compact body, dark eyes, ears standing straight up, and a curly tail carried over the back.
Their chest is deep and relatively wide. The legs appear straight from the front. The oval paws are small and tight with thick pads. There are usually dewclaws on the front legs but not on the back. The coat is solid black, sometimes with a very small amount of white on the chest.
The breed has a rich coat that does not stand out from the body. This is an all-weather hunting dog and the coat is very important. It must be able to keep out the heavy autumn rain in Scandinavia and endure the cold weather, which it does very well.
The Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs are medium sized animals. Their average body height is between 18 and 19 inches at the withers for the males, and between 17 and 18 inches for females. And average live body weight of the mature dogs is between 16 and 20 kg.
Temperament
The Black Norwegian Elkhound dog is a very robust and hardy dog. It is very alert and full of power, pride and is strong-minded. The most recommended training method is one that focuses on motivating the dog, such as clicker training or reward-based training methods.
Using punishment or dominance-based methods could negatively impact training with these dogs. It is easy to train, but always needs something to do to be happy. It needs continuous exercise and activity in concert with it’s superb intelligence to do well. It is an excellent hunting dog and loves to be in the forest.
Lifespan
Average lifespan of the Black Norwegian Elkhound dog is between 12 and 15 years.
Feeding
How much a mature dog eats depends on it’s size, age, build, metabolism and activity level. Dogs are individuals, just like people, and they don’t all need the same amount of food.
The Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs are medium sized animals. So, their diet should be formulated for a medium-sized breed with average to high exercise needs. You can consult with a vet in your area for better recommendations.
Caring
Taking good care of the animals is very important for raising Black Norwegian Elkhound dog. It is a very energetic dog that thrives on strenuous activity. They need to be taken on a daily, long, brisk walk or jog.
While out on the walk, the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as in a dog’s mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human.
The Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs should have at least an hour of exercise a day. These dogs will also enjoy running beside your bike or a really good run in the woods, but remember that they like to roam.
The Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs will be okay in an apartment life if it is sufficiently exercised. The breed is fairly active indoors and does best with at least a large yard. And they prefer cool climates.
Health
The Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs are generally healthy. But like all other dog breeds, they are also prone to certain health conditions.
Their common health problems include hip dysplasia, pyotraumatic dermatitis and PRA. Always keep good contact with a vet in your area.
| Breed Name | Black Norwegian Elkhound |
| Other Names | Norsk Elghund Svart, Norsk Elghund Black, Black Elkhound and Norwegian Moose Dog |
| Breed Size | Medium |
| Height | Between 18 and 19 inches at the withers for the males, and between 17 and 18 inches for females |
| Weight | Between 16 and 20 kg |
| Good as pets | Yes |
| Climate Tolerance | All climates |
| Color | Black |
| Lifespan | Between 12 and 15 years |
| Good for children | Yes |
| Rarity | Rare |
| Country of Origin | Norway |
