Background
The origins of the Norwegian Elkhound can be traced back as far back as 5000 B. C. in, you guessed it, Norway. In early times, the dog has been thought to accompany the Vikings, as both their remains have been discovered together. The Elkhound, which is a member of the Spitz group, was primarily a hunting dog, used for hunting large game such as elk. The dog would be used to track the game and hold it at bay until the hunters arrived, using its loud bark to alert the hunters of their location. The dog was also used on farms as a herder and a good watchman.
For the first time in 1877, the Elkhound participated in an exhibition in Norway. This gave the ELkhound the opportunity for its characteristics to be well known and to grow in popularity. After this moment, he was no longer just a hunting dog but started to be seen as a show dog in the eyes of the world.
Lost In Translation
Did you know that Norsk Elghund really means 'moose dog' in Norwegian, while elch means 'moose' in German? This might explain a part of the confusion with the English translation!
For the first time in 1877, the Elkhound participated in an exhibition in Norway. This gave the ELkhound the opportunity for its characteristics to be well known and to grow in popularity. After this moment, he was no longer just a hunting dog but started to be seen as a show dog in the eyes of the world.
Lost In Translation
Did you know that Norsk Elghund really means 'moose dog' in Norwegian, while elch means 'moose' in German? This might explain a part of the confusion with the English translation!