• Hungarian Language
  • English Language

Black Norwegian Elkhound Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Black Norwegian Elkhound so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Hunting Dogs
Popularity Rank548
Reviews0
User Ratings
Compare the Black Norwegian Elkhound With Other Dogs
Select at least one dog breed to make the comparsion.
 
 
Black Norwegian Elkhound dog profile picture
OriginNorway flagNorway
Other Names
What other names does the Black Norwegian Elkhound have?
Black ElkhoundNorsk Elghund BlackNorsk Elghund Sort
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Black Norwegian Elkhound Size and Weight

Size
Is a Black Norwegian Elkhound small, medium or large dog?

How big do Black Norwegian Elkhound get?

What is the average size of a Black Norwegian Elkhound?

Medium
Weight
How much does the Black Norwegian Elkhound weigh? How much should a Black Norwegian Elkhound weight? What is the normal weight of a Black Norwegian Elkhound? How much does a full-grown Black Norwegian Elkhound weight?
Male: 50-60 pounds (23-27 kg), Female: 40-55 pounds (18-25 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Black Norwegian Elkhound?
Male: 55 pounds (25 kg), Female: 47.5 pounds (21.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Black Norwegian Elkhound? Black Norwegian Elkhound height:
Male: 19-21 inches (48-53 cm), Female: 18-20 inches (46-51 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Black Norwegian Elkhound?
Male: 20 inches (50.5 cm), Female: 19 inches (48.5 cm)

Black Norwegian Elkhound Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Black Norwegian Elkhound puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Black Norwegian Elkhound in the United States? How much money is a Black Norwegian Elkhound?

Where to buy a Black Norwegian Elkhound with a good pedigree?

$500-$700
If you choose to purchase the Black Norwegian Elkhound, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Black Norwegian Elkhound for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Black Norwegian Elkhound gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Black Norwegian Elkhound? How many Black Norwegian Elkhound are there in the world?
Rare: You may rarely see each other in everyday life, but you might catch a glimpse of each other at dog shows.

There are very few of them, and there have been times when they have almost drifted to the brink of extinction, so few are left.

Black Norwegian Elkhound Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Black Norwegian Elkhound? Is the Black Norwegian Elkhound breed dumb or smart?
Smart: The Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs have great intelligence. They understand and memorize new commands in 15-25 repetitions.

The Black Norwegian Elkhound is among the smartest dogs in the intelligence ranking.

Trainability
Are Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Black Norwegian Elkhound?
Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Ability
Is Black Norwegian Elkhound good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs are one of the best watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're very consistent in their effort. The best vocal cords and sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're very territorial and protective about their property, so the Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs strongly protect their territory. This breed is a complete security guard, so you don't have to be afraid in case of danger.

Black Norwegian Elkhound Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Black Norwegian Elkhound have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
AlertIntelligentStrongWilledProudRobust
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Black Norwegian Elkhound sensitivity:
Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. Sometimes it's okay to change the daily routine, have guests and listen to loud music.

Some dogs handle moderate punishment very well, while others crumble apart at a dirty look. This breed is not affected emotionally by moderate punishment.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Black Norwegian Elkhound a good family dog?
Average: Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs are average dogs regarding their affection level. Some breeds are forthcoming and friendly, while others are independent and don't bond too closely with their owners.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Black Elkhound need? Black Norwegian Elkhound social needs:
Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Black Norwegian Elkhound to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Black Norwegian Elkhound roam?
Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs have average wanderlust potential. Sometimes they like to explore the world and they might escape once or twice, but usually, they prefer staying safely at home. Safer to teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Black Norwegian Elkhound have high prey drive?
Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. Cats or any other small animals might be in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Black Norwegian Elkhound Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
Average: Black Norwegian Elkhounds, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Barking
Do Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Black Elkhound bark?
Low to Average: The Black Norwegian Elkhound rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Black Norwegian Elkhound good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Black Norwegian Elkhound in an apartment?
Apartment-friendly dog the Black Norwegian Elkhound breed. It is best if you have a small garden where it can occasionally go out to do its business, but this is not important at all. You can exercise him enough with a walk or two a day, so he's comfortable in an apartment.

Black Norwegian Elkhound Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Average: Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Black Norwegian Elkhound be left alone? How long can you leave a Black Norwegian Elkhound alone?
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Black Norwegian Elkhound Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Black Norwegian Elkhound has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Black Norwegian Elkhound? How much bite force does a Black Norwegian Elkhound have? How strong is a Black Norwegian Elkhound bite?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Black Norwegian Elkhound bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Black Norwegian Elkhound measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Black Norwegian Elkhound is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Black Norwegian Elkhound bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Black Norwegian Elkhound bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Black Norwegian Elkhound puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Black Norwegian Elkhound, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Black Norwegian Elkhound bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Black Norwegian Elkhound can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do Black Norwegian Elkhound bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Black Elkhound? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Black Norwegian Elkhound? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Black Norwegian Elkhound has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Black Norwegian Elkhound do?
Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Black Norwegian Elkhound Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Black Norwegian Elkhounds tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds. Regular vet check-ups are needed.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Black Norwegian Elkhound breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Black Norwegian Elkhound breed? Most common health risks of Black Norwegian Elkhound:
CystinuriaElbow DysplasiaEntropionFanconi Syndrome Hip Dysplasia HypothyroidismObesityRenal Failure
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Black Norwegian Elkhound breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Black Norwegian Elkhound see the vet?
Frequent
The Black Norwegian Elkhound should have a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs live? How old can a Black Norwegian Elkhound be? What is the age limit of the Black Norwegian Elkhound? How many years can the oldest Black Norwegian Elkhound live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Black Norwegian Elkhound?

How long is the lifespan of a Black Norwegian Elkhound?

11-15 years
The average lifespan of Black Norwegian Elkhound: 13 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Prefers average to cold weather conditions
The Black Norwegian Elkhound can adapt to well to cold weather conditions, some dogs even can be a good mountain dog.

Black Norwegian Elkhound Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Black Norwegian Elkhound have? What is the activity level of the Black Norwegian Elkhound?
Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Black Norwegian Elkhound need? How much exercise do Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs require per day?

Do Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs need a lot of exercises?

Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs need a lot of exercises. Long walks should be on a daily schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Black Norwegian Elkhound breed need?
Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs don't need too much sleep. They are energetic and desire to live active life. If you think naps are overrated, this breed can be the best choice for you.

Black Norwegian Elkhound Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Black Norwegian Elkhound need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Black Norwegian Elkhound breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Black Norwegian Elkhound? How much food should I feed my Black Norwegian Elkhound?
2 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Black Norwegian Elkhound risk for obesity:
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Black Norwegian Elkhound's weight, he can easily gain weight. More than one daily walk should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Black Norwegian Elkhound weight regularly.

Black Norwegian Elkhound Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Black Norwegian Elkhound have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
Double
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Black Norwegian Elkhound coats?
Black
Grooming
How to groom the Black Norwegian Elkhound and how often? How often should I take my Black Norwegian Elkhound to the groomer?
Average: The Black Norwegian Elkhound requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential.

Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Black Norwegian Elkhound, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.

Shedding Level
How much do Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Black Elkhound? Do Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs shed a lot?
Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs are low shedders. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. The amount and frequency of hair loss mostly depend on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Black Norwegian Elkhound need a bath? How often should you give a Black Norwegian Elkhound a bath? Can I bathe my Black Norwegian Elkhound every day?
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. While a good bath every now and then is a great way to keep your buddy from becoming overly smelly, be mindful about overbathing.

Bathing will wash away your dog’s natural oils, while a simple brushing every few days should keep them clean.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Black Norwegian Elkhound breed hypoallergenic?
No
Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Medium

The Black Norwegian Elkhound has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Black Norwegian Elkhound drool?
The Black Norwegian Elkhound is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Black Norwegian Elkhound could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Black Norwegian Elkhound.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Black Norwegian Elkhound Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs get along with other pets? Are Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs usually don’t get on well with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Black Norwegian Elkhound temperament with other people:
Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Are Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Black Norwegian Elkhound temperament with children:
Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Black Norwegian Elkhound breed live with a cat?
Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Black Norwegian Elkhound good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs get along with other dogs?
Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Black Norwegian Elkhound breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Black Norwegian Elkhound breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs good office canines? Do Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Black Norwegian Elkhound is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Black Elkhound temperament with senior people? Are Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs good for elderly owners?
Black Norwegian Elkhounds are usually recommended for elderly people.

Black Norwegian Elkhound As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Black Norwegian Elkhound be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Black Norwegian Elkhound is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Black Norwegian Elkhound be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Black Norwegian Elkhound be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Black Norwegian Elkhound is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Black Norwegian Elkhound be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Black Norwegian Elkhound is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Black Norwegian Elkhound be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Black Norwegian Elkhound is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Black Norwegian Elkhound be a boat dog?

Not really

Black Norwegian Elkhound breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Black Norwegian Elkhound be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Black Norwegian Elkhound is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Black Norwegian Elkhound Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Black Norwegian Elkhound pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Black Norwegian Elkhound breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Black Norwegian Elkhound: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Black Norwegian Elkhound have in a litter? How many puppies can the Black Norwegian Elkhound breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Black Norwegian Elkhound have? How many puppies can a Black Norwegian Elkhound give birth to?
4-6 puppies

Black Norwegian Elkhound Recognition

AKC Group
Is Black Norwegian Elkhound recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is Black Norwegian Elkhound recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Spitz and primitive types group, in the Nordic Hunting Dogs section.

Black Norwegian Elkhound Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligent Rank: Smart: The Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs have great intelligence.
  • Apartment Friendly: Apartment-friendly dog the Black Norwegian Elkhound breed.
  • Shedding Level: Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs are low shedders.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Black Norwegian Elkhound is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Watchdog Ability: Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
  • Child Friendly: Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Black Norwegian Elkhounds are usually recommended for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Health Issues: Black Norwegian Elkhounds tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds.
  • Hypoallergenic: Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Black Norwegian Elkhound's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Cat Friendly: Black Norwegian Elkhound dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Black Norwegian Elkhound is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Black Norwegian Elkhound History

The history of the Black Norwegian Elkhound was identical to that of the Norwegian Elkhound until the early 1800s. The Norwegian Elkhound is a muscular medium-sized dog that dates back to 4000-5000 BC and was developed as a hunting dog to assist in the tracking and shooting of moose and bear in prehistoric Norway. Although these small dogs were specialized for moose, referred to as "elg" in Norwegian, Elkhounds developed particularly keen senses and were able to effectively pursue and hunt several varieties of game.

Furthermore, a group of Norwegian Elkhound breeders began creating full black dogs in the early 1800s. It is uncertain whether black Norwegian Elkhounds have always existed or whether the color originally appeared in the breed at that time. These breeders continued to breed their lines, probably regularly crossing them with the more common grey-colored dogs until the late 1900s. Although the grey Norwegian Elkhound was common throughout Scandinavia, the Black Norwegian Elkhound was largely limited to interior regions on either side of the Norwegian-Swedish border. However, most fanciers rejected the black color when the Norwegian Elkhound was standardized and pedigreed from 1877 forward. In 1901, the first official Norwegian Elkhound standard was published, which excluded non-grey dogs.

Moreover, despite being excluded from the official Norwegian Elkhound registries, breeders of Black Norwegian Elkhounds continued to develop their lines. As these dogs were not initially accepted for the show ring, they were bred with a greater emphasis on working skills than the regular Norwegian Elkhound. Breeders began to focus on the dog’s scent tracking ability, and the dog earned a reputation for being the most skilled and devoted scent tracker of all Scandinavian Spitz-type dogs. The breed is nearly identical in appearance to its grey cousin, with three primary differences. Of greatest importance is the breed’s coloration which should be solid and shining black. A small white patch on the chest and on the feet is acceptable. This breed also tends to have a slightly shorter coat than the grey Norwegian Elkhound, although that is more of a general trend than a rule. The breed is also somewhat smaller than its more famous cousin.

Furthermore, the Black Norwegian Elkhound eventually gained recognition as a distinct breed. Despite its many qualities, the Black Norwegian Elkhound fell out of favor as its more well-known grey relative grew in popularity. By the 1950s, there were very few breeders of this dog still active, and the breed was on the verge of extinction. Fortunately for the Black Norwegian Elkhound, in the mid-1950s, a group of dedicated breeders began and perpetuate the breed’s best examples. Despite its modest progress, the Black Norwegian Elkhound today maintains a stable population in Norway, with 90 to 150 puppies registered each year with the Norwegian Kennel Club and the Federation Cynologique Internationale. A few additional litters are also sometimes born in other Scandinavian countries Despite its recovery, the Black Norwegian Elkhound remains almost unknown outside of Scandinavia, and only maintains a sizeable population in Norway.

Latest Black Norwegian Elkhound Compares

Rate The Black Norwegian Elkhound Breed

Black Norwegian Elkhound Comments, Reviews and Questions