The Norwegian Hound: A Comprehensive Guide to the Hound of the Vikings

The Norwegian Hound, also known as the Norsk Elghund Grå, is an ancient breed of dog that originated in Norway. These hounds were originally bred to hunt moose, elk, and other large game. Today, they are still used for hunting, but they are also popular companion animals.

The Norwegian Hound is a medium-sized dog, with males standing 23-25 inches (58-63 cm) tall at the shoulder and weighing 55-65 pounds (25-29 kg). Females are slightly smaller, standing 21-23 inches (53-58 cm) tall at the shoulder and weighing 45-55 pounds (20-25 kg). The Norwegian Hound has a long, thick double coat that comes in a variety of colors, including gray, black, and brown. The coat is designed to protect the dog from the cold Norwegian winters.

The Norwegian Hound is a powerful and athletic dog. They are known for their stamina and their ability to track prey over long distances. The Norwegian Hound is also a very independent dog, and they can be difficult to train. However, proper training and socialization can minimize any challenges.

History of the Norwegian Hound

The Norwegian Hound is one of the oldest breeds of dog in the world. The breed is believed to have originated in Norway around 5000 BC. The Norwegian Hound was used by the Vikings to hunt moose, elk, and other large game. The breed was also used to guard livestock and homes.

The Norwegian Hound was first brought to the United States in the late 1800s. The breed quickly became popular with hunters, and it is now one of the most popular hunting dogs in the United States. The Norwegian Hound is also a popular companion animal, and it is known for its loyalty and affectionate nature.

Temperament of the Norwegian Hound

The Norwegian Hound is a friendly and affectionate dog. They are good with children and other animals, and they make excellent family pets. However, the Norwegian Hound is also a very independent dog, and they can be difficult to train. The Norwegian Hound is also a very vocal dog, and they may bark excessively if they are not properly trained.

Training the Norwegian Hound

The Norwegian Hound is a very intelligent dog, but they can be difficult to train. The Norwegian Hound is a very independent dog, and they may not always want to follow your commands. However, with patience and consistency, you can train your Norwegian Hound to be a well-behaved dog.

Here are some tips for training your Norwegian Hound:

• Start training early. The sooner you start training your Norwegian Hound, the more likely they are to learn good habits.
• Be patient and consistent. The Norwegian Hound is a very intelligent dog, but they can also be very stubborn. Be patient and consistent with your training, and eventually your Norwegian Hound will learn what you want them to do.
• Use positive reinforcement. The Norwegian Hound is a very food-motivated dog, so using positive reinforcement is a great way to train them. When your Norwegian Hound does something you like, give them a treat or praise them.
• Avoid punishment. Punishment is not an effective way to train a Norwegian Hound. Punishment can make your Norwegian Hound afraid of you, and it can damage your bond with them.

Health of the Norwegian Hound

The Norwegian Hound is a generally healthy breed of dog. However, like all breeds, they are prone to certain health problems. Some of the health problems that Norwegian Hounds may experience include:

• Hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects the hip joint. It can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis.
• Elbow dysplasia. Elbow dysplasia is a condition that affects the elbow joint. It can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis.
• Patellar luxation. Patellar luxation is a condition that occurs when the kneecap dislocates. It can cause pain, lameness, and instability.
• Cataracts. Cataracts are a clouding of the lens of the eye. They can lead to blindness if not treated.
• Glaucoma. Glaucoma is a condition that occurs when the pressure in the eye increases. It can lead to blindness if not treated.

Lifespan of the Norwegian Hound

The average lifespan of the Norwegian Hound is 12-14 years. However, some Norwegian Hounds may live longer or shorter depending on their overall health and lifestyle.

Norwegian Hound Breed Standard

The following is the breed standard for the Norwegian Hound, as established by the American Kennel Club:

General Appearance

The Norwegian Hound is a medium-sized, powerful, and athletic dog. They have a long, thick double coat that comes in a variety of colors. The Norwegian Hound is known for their stamina and their ability to track prey over long distances.

Head

The Norwegian Hound has a broad head with a slightly rounded skull. The muzzle is long and strong, and the lips are tight and black. The eyes are dark brown and almond-shaped. The ears are V-shaped and set high on the head.

Body

The Norwegian Hound has a strong and muscular body. The chest is deep and the back is level. The legs are long and strong, and the feet are large and webbed.

Tail

The Norwegian Hound has a long, bushy tail that is carried low. The tail is often curled over the back.

Coat

The Norwegian Hound has a long, thick double coat. The outer coat is coarse and weather-resistant, while the undercoat is soft and insulating. The coat comes in a variety of colors, including gray, black, and brown.

Color

The Norwegian Hound comes in a variety of colors, including gray, black, and brown. The most common color is gray, which is often referred to as "wolf gray." Black Norwegian Hounds are also common, and brown Norwegian Hounds are less common.

Size

The Norwegian Hound is a medium-sized dog. Males stand 23-25 inches (58-63 cm) tall at the shoulder and weigh 55-65 pounds (25-29 kg). Females are slightly smaller, standing 21-23 inches (53-58 cm) tall at the shoulder and weighing 45-55 pounds (20-25 kg).

Temperament

The Norwegian Hound is a friendly and affectionate dog. They are good with children and other animals, and they make excellent family pets. However, the Norwegian Hound is also a very independent dog, and they can be difficult to train. The Norwegian Hound is also a very vocal dog, and they may bark excessively if they are not properly trained.

Norwegian Hound Colors

The Norwegian Hound comes in a variety of colors, including gray, black, brown, and cream. The most common color is gray, which is often referred to as "wolf gray." Black Norwegian Hounds are also common, and brown Norwegian Hounds are less common. Cream Norwegian Hounds are the rarest color.

Norwegian Hound Grooming

The Norwegian Hound has a long, thick coat that requires regular grooming. You should brush your Norwegian Hound's coat at least twice a week to remove dead hair and prevent mats. You should also bathe your Norwegian Hound every 6-8 weeks.

Norwegian Hound Nutrition

The Norwegian Hound is a high-energy dog that requires a diet that is high in protein and fat. You should feed your Norwegian Hound a diet that is specifically designed for large breeds. You should also make sure that your Norwegian Hound has access to plenty of fresh water.

Norwegian Hound Exercise

The Norwegian Hound is a very active dog that requires a lot of exercise. You should take your Norwegian Hound for a long walk or run every day. You can also take your Norwegian Hound hiking, swimming, or biking.

Norwegian Hound Training

The Norwegian Hound is a very intelligent dog, but they can be difficult to train. The Norwegian Hound is a very independent dog, and they may not always want to follow your commands. However, with patience and consistency, you can train your Norwegian Hound to be a well-behaved dog.

Here are some tips for training your Norwegian Hound:

• Start training early. The sooner you start training your Norwegian Hound, the more likely they are to learn good habits.
• Be patient and consistent. The Norwegian Hound is a very intelligent dog, but they can also be very stubborn. Be patient and consistent with your training, and eventually your Norwegian Hound will learn what you want them to do.
• Use positive reinforcement. The Norwegian Hound is a very food-motivated dog, so using positive reinforcement is a great way to train them. When your Norwegian Hound does something you like, give them a treat or praise them.
• Avoid punishment. Punishment is not an effective way to train a Norwegian Hound. Punishment can make your Norwegian Hound afraid of you, and it can damage your bond with them.

Norwegian Hound Health

The Norwegian Hound is a generally healthy breed of dog. However, like all breeds, they are prone to certain health problems. Some of the health problems that Norwegian Hounds may experience include:

• Hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects the hip joint. It can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis.
• Elbow dysplasia. Elbow dysplasia is a condition that affects the elbow joint. It can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis.
• Patellar luxation. Patellar luxation is a condition that