Swedish Elkhound

Quick Take

• This cold-climate hunting breed has a personality trait that makes it surprisingly well-suited for family life, though that compatibility comes with one important condition. See the personality traits →
• Swedish elkhounds are famously low-maintenance in one unexpected area of grooming, yet neglecting a different routine is something you will definitely pay for. Check the grooming routine →
• They're friendly with kids but may turn aggressive toward a very specific companion, something most new owners never see coming. Read about kids and aggression →
• The recommended diet for this breed challenges what most dog owners assume is the healthiest way to feed a large, active dog. See the recommended diet →

Swedish elkhounds originated in central Sweden from a region called “Jamtland,” giving them their other common name: Jamthund. Originally, they were grouped with other breeds like Norwegian elkhounds, but in 1946, people acknowledged them as a separate breed. They are well-adapted to the snowy and uneven terrain of Scandinavia, particularly Sweden, where they explore and hunt in cold climates. Although Swedish elkhounds thrive in bitterly cold climates, they have a warm, energetic, and adventurous personality. Although known as ambitious hunting dogs, they can also be both calm and friendly. In fact, the many facets of their personality make them the perfect companions.

Owning a Swedish Elkhound: 3 Pros and Cons

Size and Weight

Males range between 22.5 and 25.5 inches in height, while females range between 20.47 and 23.62 inches in height. Males typically weigh between 66 and 77 pounds, while females generally weigh between 55 and 66 pounds.

Common Health Issues

Swedish elkhounds should be taken to the veterinarian once a year for tests and vaccinations. Identifying health problems is crucial for avoiding common health risks. Checking this breed’s breath is important for identifying halitosis or periodontal disease, which are dental diseases that can cause infection and discomfort. This breed can also be susceptible to diabetes, liver disease, intestinal disease, or kidney disease, which may sometimes cause changes in breath odor; however, proper diagnosis requires veterinary examination and laboratory testing.

Be wary of heartworms in warmer climates, as mosquitoes can cause this ailment. A simple heartworm test from a veterinarian can help identify and mitigate the effects of heartworms. Swedish elkhounds can also be susceptible to intestinal worms.

Temperament and Behavior

Swedish elkhounds are known to be loyal and brave companions with exciting but also calm personalities. When well-trained, they are personable and get along well in family settings. They can play with children and adults alike. However, training this breed is crucial to its success. An untrained elkhound may develop behavioral issues, including potential aggression. Another defining trait of this breed is its patience. It rarely becomes annoyed, making it both a fantastic hunter and family member. Due to their hunting nature, they behave intelligently and independently, too. Finally, they have an affectionate personality. With adequate training, this breed will not display hostile traits.

How to Take Care of Swedish Elkhounds

These hounds are moderate-maintenance dogs, meaning proper care is required for their success. Potential health problems require annual veterinary check-ups, and they may need medication in certain circumstances.

The Best Dog Food

The best meal plan for Swedish elkhounds is a raw diet consisting of fresh meat such as lamb, chicken, and turkey. Like other dogs, they can digest raw meat, but a balanced diet formulated for their needs is important. Some dogs may tolerate grains well, while others may not. The addition of fish alongside other meats provides nutrients necessary for a healthy coat, skin, and bones. A few root vegetables or berries may also be beneficial.

Though a raw diet is generally considered better than a commercial food diet, dry food with a high nutrient level is a viable option as well.

Maintenance and Grooming

Regular brushing is important for this breed, as they can shed a good bit of hair. Brushing them every few days removes excess hair and decreases shedding. Bathing is only required a few times a year. Trimming matted fur before bathing helps ensure a smoother grooming process.

Training

Training from a young age is important to prevent aggressive and stubborn behavior later in life. This breed is extremely intelligent, so they are easy to train and should be given rewards when they respond correctly to instructions.

Exercise

Because they are a hunting breed, exercise is crucial to maintaining physical health. Their mental health also improves with regular exercise. They should exercise for at least 90 minutes every day in an open space suitable for running and playing. A leash should be used on runs or hikes. Yard play should be supervised when the Swedish elkhound is a puppy, and installing a fence should be considered.

Puppies

When raising a puppy, owners should follow proper feeding techniques. In addition, training puppies is the best way to ensure obedience and loyalty later in life. Spaying and neutering are encouraged at around six months of age for small breeds, though owners of larger breeds are generally advised to wait longer, depending on veterinary guidance. Immunization of puppies is also crucial to avoiding diseases like hepatitis or parvovirus. Consult a veterinarian about which vaccinations are needed during the puppy’s first two months of life. Finally, Swedish elkhounds should start to engage in socialization programs at the eight or nine-week-old mark.

Swedish Elkhounds and Children

When trained, this breed gets along very well with children. They can be playful and calm, which complements energetic or relaxed children.

Dogs Similar to Swedish Elkhounds

Swedish elkhounds share similarities with other breeds such as the Norwegian elkhound, the Swedish Vallhund, and the Finnish spitz.

• Norwegian elkhound: Norwegian and Swedish elkhounds are often confused as being the same breed because they share similar ancestry and appearance, though they are distinct breeds. Both breeds are hunting dogs and respond well to reward-based training.
• Swedish Vallhund: Like the Swedish elkhound, this breed is highly intelligent and easy to train. They also have a thick, water-resistant coat intended for cold weather.
• Finnish Spitz: This dog originates from Finland and is a hunting breed like the Swedish Elkhound. Similarly, the Finnish spitz gets along well in family settings because of its playful and friendly personality.