Last Updated on September 17, 2022
If you’re considering getting a Norwegian Elkhound, you probably want to know how to train him properly. This breed of dog was bred for hunting, so it’s natural that they like being outdoors most of the time. But they also enjoy the comfort of an air-conditioned home when the weather gets warm. Here are a few tips for socializing and training your new dog.
Training a Norwegian Elkhound
The Norwegian Elkhound (also known as the Elkhound or Norsk Elghund) is a highly intelligent, agile, and energetic hunting dog that originated in Norway. This breed is about 6000 years old, and was first used as a watchdog and for hunting large game animals. Its popularity has increased in recent years, and it is now recognized by many breed clubs and organizations around the world.
Because this breed is highly intelligent and independent, training a Norwegian Elkhound can be challenging. It may not be the most obedient dog, but it does need socialization. It can bark and be loud, so it’s crucial to start early on that the dog recognizes its pack leader and respects that authority. Crate training is another important part of training a Norwegian Elkhound, as this breed can be destructive if it is left alone for a long period of time.
When taking a Norwegian Elkhound puppy outdoors, make sure to take him or her out the same place each time. This will ensure that the pup only uses that spot, and make it easier to clean up. Make sure to place the exit easily visible from the pup’s point of view. By doing this, you’ll be able to recognize when it needs to go out. Eventually, this pup will get the hang of going outside and it won’t need to be reminded to use the bathroom.
As with any breed of dog, a Norwegian Elkhound will need frequent brushing to stay clean. The coat should be brushed at least five minutes each day, and this can help prevent the dog from developing a wet dog smell. In addition to grooming, this breed of dog will need only two or three baths per year to stay clean. The good news is that they don’t shed a lot, which means that you can save a lot of money on carpet cleaning and vacuum cleaner time.
Socialization
Socialization of a Norwegian Elkhound is vital for the health and well-being of your dog. This boisterous, intelligent breed thrives on attention. They’ll rest their heads on your leg or in your lap when you’re not around and keep a sharp watch over your children. However, you must be aware of the dog’s hunting instincts. If you’ve never met a Norwegian elkhound before, here’s what you need to know about this dog breed.
Norwegian Elkhounds are incredibly loyal and affectionate dogs. They are good with children and strangers, but they can be aggressive with other dogs. To avoid this, socialization is key from puppyhood. Although this breed can be difficult to train, consistency is key. Don’t let your dog feel neglected or rejected and don’t give up. A Norwegian Elkhound will love attention and will continue to learn from you.
Although Norwegian Elkhounds are extremely active and food motivated, they are prone to overeating, so limiting their time outside is essential. Make sure they have enough exercise and a healthy diet. They also respond well to treats during training. Try to provide a dog with a food dispensing puzzle toy. Also, do not let children or other pets touch the dog’s food.
Although this lovable dog is very independent, it needs firm owners and regular exercise. Like a toddler, it requires constant supervision. A Norwegian Elkhound will need daily exercise. Exercising will help burn off excess energy and maintain a healthy weight. An obese Norwegian Elkhound will require plenty of attention and exercise. If a Norwegian Elkhound has hip dysplasia, the affected leg will eventually suffer from arthritis.
Exercise
A Norwegian Elkhound thrives on exercise, and it is recommended to take it out at least once a day for a walk, jog, or bike ride. While the breed loves walking and playing with other dogs, many owners don’t regularly exercise their pets. This could pose health risks in the long run. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to exercise your Norwegian Elkhound without putting your body through a workout.
Although they are known to be playful, they can become naughty if they feel bored or aren’t getting enough exercise. While the Norwegian Elkhound loves to eat, it is important to keep it physically fit so it does not become obese. If you aren’t sure how to keep your dog physically fit, consider reading about the history of the breed. Some photos from ancient times show the structure and development of these dogs. As a result, they had thick bones.
An ideal exercise program for your Norwegian Elkhound should include at least an hour of exercise twice a day. Exercise will keep your dog mentally and physically healthy. A daily walk or hike can be a fun activity for your Norwegian Elkhound. Remember to always keep a leash when hiking, as this breed has a high prey drive. When walking your Norwegian Elkhound, be sure to take it on a long walk if you can.
While the Norwegian Elkhound is an outgoing dog, it can be reserved at first. Once bonded, however, they will give you unrelenting companionship for life. They can be friendly with other canines, but should only be mixed with one other male. Norwegian Elkhounds are good with small dogs. You should keep an eye out for a Norwegian Elkhound’s playful behavior so you can get one that’s just right for your family.
Obedience training
If you’ve ever wondered how to train a Norwegian Elkhound, it’s important to understand that it is an extremely protective breed. If you have a stranger in your home, it may try to defend you by biting, barking, or protecting you with its tail. These are all things that should be addressed in obedience training, and it’s critical to do so early in your pet’s life.
Norwegian Elkhounds are excellent sportsmen and are most at home in the great outdoors. These dogs need at least two thirty-minute daily exercise sessions, and can compete in agility, flyball, carting, herding, or other activities. Because they are so powerful, Norwegian Elkhounds can also be trained to swim and play tug-of-war games. These dogs typically live 12-15 years.
If you have children, you can train your Norwegian Elkhound to get along with the family’s other pets. While the Elkhound enjoys playing with children and being friendly with strangers, it is not good for other dogs. It will likely attack other pets and will even kill guinea pigs and rabbits if caught. It can be difficult to train this dog, but if you are consistent, you can train him to do his job and be a great pack leader.
As you can see, Elkhounds have high energy levels, so it’s important to provide them with a job. They need daily exercise and mental stimulation. You can also sign them up for obedience classes and nosework. These training activities will help to reduce their barking and other distracting behavior. And you’ll be proud of the dog once you bond with him. But be careful not to overdo it!
Leash training
When it comes to leash training for a Norwegian elkahound, it is important to remember that this breed is extremely intelligent and has an excellent prey drive. This breed can detect prey from miles away and can often bark or whine. Consequently, it is important to exercise this breed on a leash whenever it is not on the leash. Even if you’re just taking your new pet out for a walk, it is imperative to keep it leashed at all times.
Despite the fact that the Norwegian Elkhound is a large breed, it does not have a fearful nature. This type of dog is typically friendly, obedient, and dependable. Its deep chest, tightly curled tail, and distinctive harness mark make it an attractive pet. Although this breed can be exuberant, it is generally well behaved around children and other dogs. However, if you fail to provide this dog with the appropriate training, he may become destructive or even misbehave.
Besides being an excellent hunting dog, the Norwegian Elkhound is also a prized watchdog and flock guardian. It also served a vital role in Norway’s defense efforts. Its traditional prey included deer, rabbits, and bear. Even the Vikings used this breed to hunt. In 1877, it was recognized as a breed by the Norwegian Hunters Association, and breeders began the process of establishing a standard and shaping this ancient hound into a serious competitor in the conformation ring.
While the Norwegian Elkhound is an independent, intelligent breed, it is reserved and protective of its family. In fact, it is one of the few breeds that responds best to rewards-based training. As such, it should never be used as a distraction. It must be able to concentrate on its job and not wander off in search of adventure. The Norwegian Elkhound should never be left alone for long.
About The Author
Mindy Vu is a part time shoe model and professional mum. She loves to cook and has been proclaimed the best cook in the world by her friends and family. She adores her pet dog Twinkie, and is happily married to her books.