Frequently Asked Questions

About the Norwegian Elkhound

 

    How large do they get?

    The AKC Standard for the Norwegian Elkhound calls for males to be 20 1/2 inches and females to be 19 1/2 inches. Although individuals vary somewhat, it is a medium breed.

    Do they bark?

Emphatically, YES!!! More so than most other breeds.

Do they shed?

    Yes, yes, and yes. However, brushing the dog frequently keeps shedding under control.

    Are they good with children?

    While there are always individual variations in temperament, as a rule Elkhounds are wonderful family dogs and truly love children.
     

    Are they good watchdogs?

    As a breed, Norwegian Elkhounds are watchful. Most will alert their owners to the presence of an intruder in the vicinity of their territory by barking. Elkhounds are NOT by nature attack dogs and guard dog training should not be attempted.
     

    As a breed, are Norwegian Elkhounds prone to genetic problems?

    Most breeds have a predisposition to some genetic problems. Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, renal glycosuria, and thyroid problems are some problems for which some Elkhound breeders screen their breeding stock.
     
     

    Do Elkhounds wander?

    Most dogs will wander if given an opportunity. This is why many breeders require potential owners to have fenced yards or dog runs.
     

    Are Elkhounds trainable?

    Most dogs are trainable if training is begun early enough. Consistency is the key in training an Elkhound. The Elkhound is a versatile breed and there are many who have excelled in obedience competition, tracking, and agility. Furthermore, there are individuals who have distinguished themselves in search and rescue, carting, and herding.
     

    Do Elkhounds require a lot of exercise?

    The Norwegian Elkhound is a fairly high energy breed; however, there are many individuals who are content to lie around the house. As a rule, exercise is healthy for dogs as well as people and regular walks will help to keep an Elkhound in good condition.
     

    Is the Norwegian Elkhound a good apartment dog?

Some individuals do very well in apartments, especially if they are raised in apartments and get regular exercise. However, be aware of the fact that their loud, piercing bark can present neighbor problems.

 


About Ellyka:

 

         How long have you been breeding Norwegian Elkhounds?
 
        Since 1972,

         How many litters a year do you have?

As a rule, only one. However, there have been some exceptional years when we've had more than one. It has always been our practice to breed a litter only when we want a puppy out of a particular breeding pair.
    Are you members of any breed organizations?

    We are members of the Norwegian Elkhound Association of America as well as the Garden State Norwegian Elkhound Club. We are presently investigating membership in a local all-breed club. Ned is currently the Legislative Liaison for NEAA.

    What genetic tests do you have performed on your breeding stock?

    We have OFA certify that our dogs' hips are free from hip dysplasia. We bring our dogs to veterinary ophthalmologists for CERF guarantees against hereditary eye diseases. All breeding stock and young puppies are tested for sugar-free urine. We have had routine tests for thyroid problems, but thus far, we haven't had difficulty with thyroid function.

    Do you prefer show homes for your dogs?

    Definitely not! Any puppy we sell must be a pet first. If the puppy demonstrates show potential, the owner is advised of that fact, and if this is what the owner chooses to do, we will support their decision. However, we do not require that the new owner show their puppy. That is the primary reason why we do not differentiate in price between show puppies and pet puppies.

    Do you sell your puppies with health guarantees?

    Absolutely. Every puppy that is sold comes with a contract certifying its health and enumerating shots, worming, and diet. Also, all puppies are vet-checked within a few days before leaving our home.

    Do you sell your puppies on spay/neuter contracts?

    Definitely. All AKC transfers are signed upon proof of spay/neuter. We co-own any female purchased for show/breeding until which time the female has completed her championship and has received all pre-breeding genetic testing.

    Will you take back any dog you sell if circumstances arise which necessitate giving the dog up?

Without question; that's in our contract, along with the fact that our dogs cannot be transferred to other parties without our consent.