Black Norwegian Elkhound
Breed Description

The Black Norwegian Elkhound is known by several names reflecting its Scandinavian heritage and purpose. In Norwegian, the breed is called Norsk Elghund Sort, with "Norsk" meaning Norwegian, "Elghund" meaning moose dog, and "Sort" meaning black. The term "Elkhound" itself is a direct translation from the original Norwegian, where "elg" refers to moose and "hund" means dog. The name can be confusing to English speakers, as what Norwegians call "elg" is what Americans call moose, not elk. Some simply refer to the breed as Norwegian Elkhound Black or Black Elkhound to distinguish it from the more common gray variety.

The breed is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) as a distinct breed separate from the Gray Norwegian Elkhound. The FCI classifies it as a hunting dog in Group 5, Section 2, which includes Nordic hunting dogs. Several smaller national breed clubs also recognize the Black Norwegian Elkhound as its own breed. However, major kennel clubs including the United Kennel Club (UKC) and American Kennel Club (AKC) do not currently recognize the black variety as a separate breed. The AKC standard for Norwegian Elkhounds specifies only gray coloring, with any other color considered a disqualification.

This lack of widespread recognition reflects the breed's rarity outside Scandinavia and its relatively recent development as a distinct variety. While the gray Norwegian Elkhound has been standardized since 1901, the black dogs were excluded from early breed standards and nearly disappeared. Only through dedicated preservation efforts beginning in the mid-1950s has the breed maintained a stable population in Norway and surrounding countries. The Black Norwegian Elkhound remains seldom seen outside Scandinavia, though it is growing in popularity within its homeland. Among hunters and working dog enthusiasts in Norway, the breed is valued for its exceptional tracking abilities, smaller more agile build, and quiet hunting style compared to its gray cousin.

The Black Norwegian Elkhound has a complex recognition history that reflects its near-extinction and subsequent revival. In 1877, the Norwegian Hunters Association held its first dog show, beginning the formalization of Norwegian Elkhound standards. When the first official Norwegian Elkhound standard was established in 1901, it specified only gray dogs, effectively excluding the black variety from recognition and show competition. This exclusion pushed black dogs to the margins, though dedicated hunters continued breeding them for working ability rather than show ring success.

The Fédération Cynologique Internationale currently recognizes the Black Norwegian Elkhound as a separate breed, classified in Group 5 (Spitz and Primitive types), Section 2 (Nordic Hunting Dogs). The FCI standard describes the breed as smaller and more agile than the gray variety, with a height range of 40-51 centimeters (approximately 16-20 inches) at the withers. Males should measure 47 centimeters plus or minus 3-4 centimeters, while females should be 44 centimeters plus or minus 3-4 centimeters. The standard emphasizes the breed's jet black coat and hunting capabilities.

The Continental Kennel Club also recognizes the Black Norwegian Elkhound and maintains breed standards acknowledging both standard (jet black) and nonstandard (various gray shades with agouti pattern and black mask) color varieties. Their standard describes the breed as an all-purpose working dog with independent, fearless, intelligent, and energetic temperament. The CKC standard emphasizes that unprovoked aggression or fearfulness toward people is incorrect for the breed. They detail the breed's square to slightly off-square proportions and moderate bone structure designed for agility and endurance.

The Norwegian breeding committee actively works to preserve the breed's health and genetic diversity. Current breeding requirements include genetic testing for hereditary glaucoma and ataxia, with breeding approval only given when one parent is confirmed free of hereditary glaucoma. All breeding dogs must have documented hip dysplasia status, with statistics showing that 83.2 percent of Black Norwegian Elkhounds are free from hip dysplasia. The committee enforces the five percent rule, limiting each male to no more than 40 registered offspring to prevent excessive inbreeding and maintain genetic diversity within the small population.

Breeding standards emphasize maintaining the breed's working abilities as a hunting dog, with particular focus on tracking capabilities, agility, and stamina. The breed was developed with different priorities than the gray variety, creating dogs with keener scenting ability, stronger prey drive, quieter working style, and more compact build suitable for on-leash hunting. These functional characteristics remain paramount in breeding decisions, ensuring the Black Norwegian Elkhound continues to excel at the tasks it was developed to perform rather than simply appearing attractive in show rings.

• American Kennel Club (AKC): "Not Recognized"
• United Kennel Club (UKC): "Not Recognized"
• Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI): "Recognized - Group 5, Section 2"
• The Kennel Club (UK): "Not Recognized"
• Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): "Recognized"

The Black Norwegian Elkhound presents a picture of compact power and agility, smaller and more streamlined than its gray cousin while maintaining the characteristic spitz-type appearance. Adults typically stand 16-20 inches at the shoulder, with males measuring approximately 18.5 inches and females around 17 inches. Weight ranges from 35-50 pounds, with males generally reaching 50-60 pounds and females 40-55 pounds. The breed is squarely built or slightly off-square, with body length equal to or just slightly greater than height at the withers, creating a balanced, athletic silhouette designed for endurance and agility in challenging terrain.

The most distinctive feature is the coat—a solid, jet black double coat that sets this variety apart from all other Elkhounds. The coat is dense and stiff but smooth, with texture that provides excellent weather protection. On the head and front of the legs, the coat is dense and smooth. Longer, fuller hair covers the chest, neck, thighs, backs of the front legs, and underside of the tail. This double coat consists of a soft, wooly undercoat protected by a hard, coarse, weatherproof outer coat. Small amounts of white hairs on the chest and feet are permissible but not preferred. The coat is both water and dirt resistant, allowing the dog to work in harsh Scandinavian weather without discomfort.

The head is moderately large, wedge-shaped, and proportionate to the body. The skull is fairly broad between the ears, slightly arched or flat when viewed in profile. The muzzle is straight and somewhat tapered but substantial enough to provide powerful jaws for holding game. The eyes are moderate in size, oval to almond-shaped, and preferably dark brown, conveying keen intelligence and alertness. The ears are medium-sized, triangular, set high on the head, and carried erect—constantly swiveling and turning to listen for sounds. This acute hearing complements the breed's exceptional scenting ability.

The body demonstrates the strength needed for holding dangerous game combined with the agility required for navigating difficult terrain. The chest is deep enough to provide lung capacity for sustained work, and the back is particularly strong and straight. The legs are straight and strong with small, oval-shaped paws featuring thick pads that provide traction and protection. The tail is set high and curls tightly over the back in characteristic spitz fashion, carried with confidence and used expressively to communicate mood. Overall, the Black Norwegian Elkhound is a dog purpose-built for serious hunting work—agile enough to navigate mountains and forests, strong enough to hold moose at bay, and resilient enough to work through long Scandinavian winters without complaint.

The Black Norwegian Elkhound's history is intertwined with the ancient story of Nordic hunting dogs, reaching back thousands of years to perhaps 4000-5000 BC. Skeletal remains similar to modern Norwegian Elkhounds have been discovered dating to this prehistoric era, making them among the most ancient dog breeds. These dogs worked alongside Vikings as hunters and guardians, proving so valuable that they were sometimes buried with their masters. Norse art and legend feature dogs resembling Elkhounds, and one was even dubbed "king of the land" of Throndhjem, demonstrating the high esteem in which these dogs were held in Viking society.

The original Elkhounds were developed in Scandinavia's challenging environment, where settlers needed versatile dogs capable of tracking and holding dangerous game including moose (called "elg" in Norwegian), bears, wolves, lynx, mountain lions, badgers, and reindeer. The dogs would track quarry for miles using their exceptional noses—capable of detecting game from over a mile away—and then hold the animal at bay by barking until hunters arrived. These dogs also served as sled dogs, herders, and guardians, making them indispensable to survival in harsh northern climates. In case of war, Norwegian law gave the Defense Minister power to mobilize all privately owned Elkhounds, demonstrating their strategic importance.

At some point in the early to mid-1800s, lines of solid black dogs began emerging from the general Elkhound population in the border areas between Norway and Sweden. These black dogs were often back-crossed with traditional gray Norwegian Elkhounds. While the exact origins remain somewhat unclear, the black variety gained recognition as its own distinct type by the mid-19th century. The breed was mentioned in literature by the Welshman Llewelyn Lloyd, helping document its existence.

However, when the Norwegian Hunters Association held its first dog show in 1877 and the first Norwegian Elkhound breed standard was drawn up in 1901, only gray dogs were included in the standard. This exclusion had devastating consequences for the black variety. While the gray Norwegian Elkhound gained international recognition and popularity—with AKC recognition in 1913 and Kennel Club recognition in 1923—the black dogs fell from favor. Without show ring access or official recognition, fewer breeders maintained them, and the population dwindled dangerously close to extinction.

Fortunately, several dedicated breeders and hunters who valued the black variety's unique qualities refused to let it disappear. Beginning in the mid-1950s, these preservationists undertook systematic efforts to rebuild the breed's population and secure its future. They focused on maintaining and enhancing the characteristics that made black Elkhounds distinct from their gray cousins: smaller, more agile build; keener sense of smell; stronger prey drive; and importantly, a quieter working style—black Elkhounds don't bark as much as gray ones, making them better suited for certain hunting situations, particularly on-leash hunting where silence is advantageous.

Through careful breeding and dedication, these efforts succeeded in establishing a stable population in Norway by the late 20th century. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale eventually recognized the Black Norwegian Elkhound as a separate breed. Today, while still uncommon in Norway and very rare outside Scandinavia, the breed has secured its survival. In its homeland, the Black Norwegian Elkhound is growing in popularity among hunters and working dog enthusiasts who appreciate its exceptional abilities. The breed continues to fulfill its original purpose, tracking game through Norway's mountains and forests just as its ancestors did thousands of years ago, while also serving as devoted family companions who bring ancient Nordic heritage into modern homes.

The Black Norwegian Elkhound possesses a temperament shaped by thousands of years of working alongside humans in demanding hunting situations. At the core of their personality is unwavering loyalty and deep attachment to family members. These dogs become exceptionally bonded to their people and greet loved ones with genuine enthusiasm, though they may show initial reserve around strangers. Their loyalty extends to fierce protective instincts—they make sensible guard dogs who alert to potential threats while maintaining good judgment about actual danger. This combination of devotion and wariness makes them excellent watchdogs without problematic aggression.

With family members, Black Norwegian Elkhounds are affectionate, engaging, and sensitive. They possess outstanding character and are relatively clean dogs without the typical dog smell, making them pleasant household companions. They are docile and trustworthy with family, demonstrating particular patience with children. These dogs seem to understand their role as family members and companions, balancing their working heritage with genuine enjoyment of family life. They have a goofy, playful side that emerges during leisure time, refusing to take life too seriously despite their capability for serious work.

The breed's independence is one of its most characteristic traits, stemming from centuries of working at a distance from hunters and making decisions about when and how to hold game at bay. This independence manifests as a mind of their own—they think independently and may not always immediately obey commands, particularly if they don't understand the purpose. While intelligent and capable of learning quickly, they can be fairly resistant to obedience training and may test boundaries. This doesn't indicate stubbornness so much as the breed's heritage of autonomous decision-making. Handlers must establish firm but gentle leadership, showing good pack leadership skills rather than relying on harsh discipline, which damages their trust.

Black Norwegian Elkhounds are bold, fearless, and energetic—qualities essential for dogs bred to confront moose and bears. They demonstrate remarkable courage when working but maintain level-headed judgment. Their energy levels are high, requiring substantial daily exercise to remain content and well-behaved. Without adequate physical and mental stimulation, they become high-strung and may develop unwanted behaviors. They are particularly active and alert, constantly monitoring their environment through exceptional senses. Their ears are always moving, listening for sounds, while their noses detect scents humans cannot perceive. This sensory awareness combined with protective instincts means they will alert to anything unusual.

The breed's territoriality can present challenges. They are known to be territorial and may be combative with other dogs, particularly same-sex dogs in the household. This territoriality is more pronounced in the black variety than in gray Elkhounds. Strong pack leadership from owners is essential to prevent or manage dog-to-dog aggression. Their high prey drive and hunting instincts mean they are prone to following their noses and may view small animals as quarry. Many Black Norwegian Elkhounds consider fences to be suggestions rather than barriers, particularly when interesting scents or sights capture their attention. These characteristics require experienced handlers who understand working breeds and can provide the structure, exercise, and mental engagement these remarkable dogs need to thrive.

Black Norwegian Elkhounds can adapt to various living situations, including apartments, if their substantial exercise requirements are met. However, their vocal nature and tendency to bark more than many breeds can create challenges in close quarters with neighbors. These dogs take their watchdog duties seriously and will alert loudly to perceived threats or unusual situations. Homes with some distance from neighbors or rural settings better accommodate their natural alertness and powerful voices. A securely fenced yard is highly desirable, though owners must understand that many Black Norwegian Elkhounds view fences as suggestions, particularly when their hunting instincts activate.

These dogs are energetic outdoors but can be surprisingly calm indoors when their exercise needs are satisfied. They enjoy being with their families and prefer living as house dogs rather than being kenneled outside, despite their tolerance for cold weather. Their clean nature and lack of typical dog odor makes them pleasant indoor companions. However, they do shed heavily, particularly during seasonal coat changes, requiring owners to maintain regular grooming routines and accept significant amounts of loose hair during shedding periods. High-quality vacuums become essential household equipment for Black Norwegian Elkhound owners.

With children, Black Norwegian Elkhounds typically excel. They are reliable, energetic companions who make sensible guardians for young family members. Their patient, docile nature with kids they know contrasts with their wariness toward strangers, creating ideal family protection instincts. They engage enthusiastically in children's activities and seem to enjoy being part of family life. However, their energy and strength mean supervision is wise during play with very young children. Teaching children appropriate interaction with dogs helps prevent accidents and ensures positive relationships.

Living with other pets presents variable results depending on individual dogs and socialization experiences. Black Norwegian Elkhounds can be territorial and may show aggression toward other dogs, especially same-sex dogs. Proper socialization from puppyhood and strong leadership from owners help manage these tendencies. Some sources indicate they can be good with non-canine pets, while others advise caution, suggesting individual variation is significant. Their strong prey drive means small animals like cats, rabbits, or pocket pets may trigger hunting instincts. If raised with other pets from puppyhood, many Black Norwegian Elkhounds learn to accept them as family members, though some never overcome their instinct to chase.

The ideal Black Norwegian Elkhound owner is active, experienced with independent breeds, and committed to providing substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. First-time dog owners may find the breed challenging without guidance, as these dogs need handlers who can establish leadership through consistency and fairness. They thrive with owners who enjoy outdoor activities in various weather conditions—hiking, running, or participating in dog sports. The breed's ancient heritage makes them surprisingly adaptable to modern family life when their fundamental needs for exercise, training, and companionship are met. Their devotion, loyalty, and remarkable working abilities reward owners who invest the time and energy these special dogs deserve.

Training a Black Norwegian Elkhound requires understanding their independent nature and working dog mentality. These dogs are intelligent and capable of learning quickly, but their breeding for autonomous decision-making means they may not exhibit immediate obedience like more biddable breeds. Firm, consistent leadership is essential, but harshness backfires—these sensitive dogs respond poorly to criticism or punishment. Positive reinforcement methods work best, leveraging their food motivation and desire to please when treated fairly. Training sessions should be relatively short to maintain their interest, as they can become bored with repetitive tasks.

Early socialization is crucial for this breed. Black Norwegian Elkhound puppies need extensive exposure to different people, animals, environments, and situations during their critical developmental periods. Puppy kindergarten classes provide excellent socialization opportunities while beginning basic obedience work. Well-socialized dogs learn to distinguish between genuine threats and normal situations, preventing inappropriate territorial behavior or aggression. Without proper socialization, their natural wariness can develop into fearfulness or excessive aggression.

Basic obedience training should emphasize recall, impulse control, and leash manners. However, owners must understand that even well-trained Black Norwegian Elkhounds may ignore recall commands when their noses detect interesting scents or they spot potential prey. Their independent nature and strong hunting instincts override training when their drives activate. For this reason, they should never be off-leash in unfenced areas. Teaching "leave it" and "wait" commands helps manage their enthusiasm and prey drive. Leash training requires patience, as these strong dogs can pull powerfully when excited by scents or sights.

Managing their vocalization presents ongoing training challenges. Black Norwegian Elkhounds were bred to hold prey at bay by barking constantly, making vocalization deeply ingrained in their nature. They bark more than many breeds and even more than gray Norwegian Elkhounds. While training can help establish "quiet" commands and teach them when enough is enough, owners should expect these dogs to remain vocal throughout their lives. Teaching them to alert once and then quiet down is a more realistic goal than expecting silence from a breed whose voice is essential to their working purpose.

The exercise requirements for Black Norwegian Elkhounds are substantial and absolutely essential to their wellbeing. These dogs need at least one hour of strenuous daily exercise, though many benefit from more. Simple neighborhood walks don't adequately challenge their stamina or mental capacities. They require vigorous activities that engage both body and mind—long hikes on varied terrain, running, swimming, or fast-paced play sessions. They excel at dog sports that utilize their natural abilities including tracking, nosework, agility, and herding trials. These activities provide mental stimulation while strengthening the bond between dog and handler.

Without adequate exercise and mental stimulation, Black Norwegian Elkhounds become high-strung, restless, and difficult to live with. Bored Elkhounds may develop destructive behaviors including excessive barking, digging, or attempting to escape confinement to find their own adventures. They may become reactive or aggressive toward other dogs when under-exercised. A tired Black Norwegian Elkhound is a well-behaved Black Norwegian Elkhound—this ancient truth remains as valid today as it was thousands of years ago when Vikings depended on these dogs. Meeting their exercise needs transforms them from potentially overwhelming whirlwinds into devoted, manageable companions who enhance their families' active lifestyles with enthusiasm, loyalty, and the remarkable abilities developed over millennia of working alongside humans in challenging conditions.

The Black Norwegian Elkhound generally enjoys good health and impressive longevity, with most dogs living 12-15 years. This robust health reflects the breed's development through natural selection in harsh Scandinavian conditions, where only the hardiest dogs survived to pass on their genes. However, like all breeds, Black Norwegian Elkhounds can be susceptible to certain health conditions that responsible breeders screen for and owners should monitor throughout the dog's life.

Hip dysplasia represents one of the primary orthopedic concerns in the breed. This hereditary condition occurs when the hip joint develops improperly, creating instability that leads to arthritis and pain over time. The Norwegian breeding committee requires documented hip dysplasia status for all breeding dogs, and statistics show that 83.2 percent of Black Norwegian Elkhounds are free from hip dysplasia. Symptoms include difficulty rising, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, decreased activity level, altered gait, or lameness. Maintaining healthy weight throughout life significantly reduces stress on joints and minimizes the impact of hip dysplasia if present.

Hereditary glaucoma has been identified in the breed, prompting genetic testing requirements for breeding programs. Glaucoma causes increased pressure within the eye, leading to pain and potentially blindness if untreated. The Norwegian breeding committee currently approves breeding only when one parent is confirmed free of hereditary glaucoma, helping reduce incidence in future generations. Regular veterinary eye examinations allow early detection and treatment to preserve vision and comfort. Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) can also affect some lines, causing gradual vision loss through degeneration of light-sensitive cells in the retina.

Ataxia, a neurological condition affecting coordination and movement, has been documented in the breed. Plans are underway to require genetic testing for ataxia in all breeding stock to further reduce its occurrence. Early retinal degeneration (ERD), characterized by abnormal development followed by degeneration of photoreceptors in the eye, causes early onset blindness in some Norwegian Elkhounds. Genetic testing helps identify carriers and at-risk dogs, allowing informed breeding decisions and advance planning for affected animals' care.

Chondrodysplasia, a skeletal disorder causing shortened legs sometimes called dwarfism, can occur when genetic mutations are present. While not common, it demonstrates the importance of genetic diversity and careful breeding practices. Pyotraumatic dermatitis (hot spots), acute moist skin inflammations, can occur, particularly in the dense coat if moisture becomes trapped. Regular grooming and keeping the coat clean and dry helps prevent these painful skin conditions.

Fanconi syndrome, a kidney disorder affecting the reabsorption of nutrients and electrolytes, has been occasionally documented in the breed. This condition requires veterinary management to maintain quality of life. The breed's tendency to gain weight quickly means careful monitoring of food intake and regular exercise are essential to prevent obesity, which exacerbates joint problems and creates additional health complications.

Regular veterinary care forms the foundation of maintaining Black Norwegian Elkhound health. Annual wellness examinations allow veterinarians to detect emerging issues before they become serious. Keeping vaccinations current protects against preventable diseases. Parasite prevention including heartworm, flea, and tick control is essential, particularly for dogs who spend significant time outdoors. Regular dental care through professional cleanings and home tooth brushing prevents periodontal disease that affects overall health. Maintaining appropriate body condition through proper diet and adequate exercise prevents obesity-related problems. Blood work screening as dogs age helps identify issues early when they're most treatable. With proper care, good genetics, and attention to preventive health measures, Black Norwegian Elkhounds can enjoy long, healthy lives fulfilling their roles as devoted companions and remarkable working dogs.

Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care are essential for maintaining your Black Norwegian Elkhound's health and longevity.

The Black Norwegian Elkhound's grooming needs are moderate to high, primarily due to their dense double coat that requires regular attention. The coat consists of a soft, wooly undercoat protected by a hard, coarse, weatherproof outer layer. This combination provides excellent insulation and protection from elements but creates significant shedding, particularly during seasonal coat changes. Regular brushing two to three times weekly helps manage the coat and distribute natural oils that keep it healthy and weather-resistant. During heavy shedding periods, daily brushing becomes necessary to control the large amounts of loose hair.

The coat sheds heavily in spring and fall when the undercoat is blown. During these seasonal transitions, dead hair clings to new growth, creating mats if not properly removed. Specialized grooming tools are essential—a rubber brush or wooden comb with double rows of metal teeth effectively removes dead undercoat. Pet stores sell brushes and combs specifically designed for this purpose. Regular grooming during shedding season prevents uncomfortable mats and reduces the amount of hair accumulating throughout the home. Owners should be prepared for substantial amounts of loose fur during these periods.

Despite the heavy shedding, the coat offers several advantages. It is both water and dirt resistant, helping the dog remain relatively clean even when working in challenging conditions. Like other Arctic breeds, Black Norwegian Elkhounds lack the typical "dog smell" that many other breeds develop, making them pleasant household companions despite their active outdoor lifestyles. The natural oils in the coat provide this odor resistance, making frequent bathing unnecessary and actually counterproductive. Bathing should occur only when necessary, as excessive washing strips essential oils that maintain coat and skin health.

When bathing is needed, using a mild dog shampoo appropriate for double-coated breeds works best. Many owners find their Black Norwegian Elkhounds can go months between baths unless they get particularly dirty during outdoor adventures. After bathing or swimming, the coat should be thoroughly dried, paying particular attention to the dense undercoat. Allowing the coat to air dry completely prevents moisture-related skin issues that can develop in thick double coats.

Routine maintenance beyond coat care includes regular nail trimming, dental hygiene, and ear cleaning. Nails should be trimmed or ground monthly to maintain proper foot structure and prevent discomfort. Despite their active nature, many dogs don't naturally wear their nails sufficiently and require regular attention. Dental care through regular brushing helps prevent periodontal disease that can affect overall health. Checking ears weekly and cleaning when necessary prevents infections, though the erect ear carriage provides better air circulation than floppy ears, reducing infection risk compared to many hound breeds.

The natural presentation of the coat is preferred, with no trimming, clipping, or special treatment needed beyond basic brushing and occasional bathing. The coat's functionality developed over thousands of years of natural selection in harsh Scandinavian climates, creating a low-maintenance covering that protects the dog while remaining relatively self-cleaning. While the shedding requires management and regular grooming sessions are essential, the overall grooming demands are manageable for owners committed to the breed. The reward is a stunning jet black coat that showcases the breed's ancient Nordic heritage while providing the dog with protection and comfort in all weather conditions.

If you're looking to adopt a Black Norwegian Elkhound, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Black Norwegian Elkhounds waiting for their forever homes.