Size

Elkhounds are medium-sized. Males range between 20"-22" at the shoulders and weigh between 50-55 pounds. Females stand between 19"-21" and weigh between 40-45 pounds.

Temperament

Temperament will differ from dog to dog, but the normal behavior for an Elkhound is not aggressive by nature and you can expect that an Elkhound will not attack without extreme provocation. For the most part an Elkhound is friendly and protective of family and visitors. He becomes cautious when he senses danger and will use his bear-like look, deep resounding bark, and the presence of large white teeth to ward off any threat. An Elkhound can be protective, even possessive, of his human family and his property making him a commendable watch dog. When sleeping he prefers to relax at the feet of his family whether they are human or canine.

Exercise

Elkhounds are energetic and need to have daily exercise or they may have difficulty as the calm housepet most owners desire. One can't stress enough the importance of exercise in the well being of this breed. Without regular exercise, an Elkhound can easily become overweight, which can lead to health problems. An adult Elkhound needs a brisk daily walk of at least one half hour.

Coat

As is common with most northern dogs, the breed is double-coated -- long coarse outer hair to shed rain, sleet and snow and soft wooly undercoat for insulation against the elements of nature. The undercoat sheds profusely twice a year, usually at six month intervals; guard hairs are shed approximately every other year. If you are a meticulous housekeeper, an Elkhound is not for you. The coat sheds most foreign substances with ease and the dog seems by instinct to keep himself clean. Regular grooming is advisable and an absolute necessity when shedding. A most unusual physical characteristic of the breed is the absence of "doggy odor".

Training

The Elkhound is a loving and good-natured dog, sensitive to praise and reproof without the necessity of physical punishment. It is amazing how much communication is possible through expressions, gestures, and voice. Remarkably intelligent, an Elkhound is also headstrong and independent. For this reason it is illogical to expect unquestioning obedience from an Elkhound. Left to his own devices, he can be prone to problematic behaviors. To consider an Elkhound, you must understand the role of training the dog's life and the need for it to be an ongoing process. As with any breed, it is wise to socialize a dog with others at an early age. Basic obedience classes can get you off to a good start with your training.

Health

The Elkhound is fortunate that it does not have the number of health problems present in many other breeds. Before you consider an Elkhound, be knowledgeable about the genetic defects that are most prevalent in the breed. Eye disorders (blindness), skeletal anomalies (hip displasia), urogenital conditions (renal disease), and skin ailments (cysts) are known to occur in the breed. It is possible to eliminate or reduce the incidence of these genetic problems by carrying out screening tests on all breeding stock.

Care & Maintenance

Because of his long association with man and his deep devotion to his human family, an Elkhound thrives on love and attention. Housing needs are simple as he will prefer to live with you. Given a proper diet, reasonable exercise (30 minutes twice a day), and clean living conditions, the Elkhound is an extraordinarily maintenance free dog. Strong and vigorous, he will relish long walks or bicycling with his master. An Elkhound's eyes rarely need care and likewise, his prick ears are usually trouble free. His feet require no special attention except regular clipping of his claws about every six weeks. The Elkhound, shown in his natural condition, requires no trimming or stripping -- even for show purposes his whiskers need not be trimmed. Consider your lifestyle and household schedule -- do you travel, do you work long hours, do children's activities keep you busy? In other words, do you have the time to give an Elkhound the love and attention he needs.