NORWEGIAN ELKHOUND

Norwegian elkhound. breed of dog that originated thousands of years ago in western Norway, where it was used as an all-purpose hunter, shepherd, guard, and companion. It generally excels in tracking European elk and has also been used for hunting bear, lynx, and lion. A medium-sized dog with erect, pointed ears, the Norwegian elkhound has a short, compact body and a thick, smooth coat of black-tipped gray hairs; it carries its tail curled high over its back. It stands 18 to 20 inches (46 to 52 cm), weighs 40 to 50 pounds (18 to 23 kg), and is characterized as a bold, energetic dog. See the Table of Selected Breeds of Hounds for further information.