Norwegian Elkhound
The Norwegian Elkhound is described by the AKC as friendly, confident, dependable, a member of the Hound Group, originally from Norway.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 20.5 inches (male), 19.5 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 55 pounds (male), 48 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Friendly / Confident / Dependable [1] |
| AKC group | Hound Group [1] |
| Origin | Norway [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 128 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
These are hunting dogs in their native Norway. They track and follow moose, ranging far ahead of the hunter, and they must be able to trot many miles for several days if necessary. Because they must make their own decisions when hunting, and by virtue of the way they hunt, they are independent and lovers of the woods and their freedom. [1]
Grooming
The Norwegian Elkhound has a 'two-ply' coat, with a top coat and an undercoat. Elkhound breeders warn potential puppy buyers of the inevitable'¿that during shedding season they will have 'tumbleweeds' of silver undercoat rolling around their house. The outer coat will shed as well, but not to the degree that the undercoat will. [1]
Health issues to budget for
By and large this is a very healthy breed. The average life span is 12-14 years, with most owners losing their dogs due to cancer or heart issues. Negligible incidences of PRA have been found but can be traced to foreign dogs. hip dysplasia occurs, but by and large dogs that are checked usually get a 'good' or 'fair' evaluation from OFA, with many rating 'excellent.' There have been some bouts of renal (kidney) issues, but this seems to have been put out of the breed's current state of health. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Norwegian Elkhound in 1913. [1]
- It ranked No. 128 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 88 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Elkhound.” [1]
- The AKC lists Norway as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 2 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Close neighbors or thin walls: AKC rates barking 4/5
Common questions
How long do Norwegian Elkhounds live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
How big does a Norwegian Elkhound get?
AKC breed information lists height 20.5 inches (male), 19.5 inches (female) and weight 55 pounds (male), 48 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a Norwegian Elkhound?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Norwegian Elkhound, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.