Swedish Elkhound
The Swedish Elkhound is a very old breed believed to have been around during the 1000s. Ancestors of this breed are speculated to be the dogs kept by the Stone Age people. Swedish Elkhounds have originated from Jamtland, a northwestern province of Sweden. This breed of magnificent conformation has been kept by people in Jamtland at the end of the last ice age. This is the reason why the breed gained the name Jamthund.
A Swedish Elkhound is a spitz type dog noted to have a wolf-like appearance. A Swedish Elkhound’s longer than tall body is smoothly covered by a light to dark close lying hair. Cream and gray marking on the dog’s cheeks, muzzle, chest, belly and legs enhances the striking appearance of the thick double coat. A tightly curled tail in the shape of a scimitar add to the already striking appearance of the dog
As the name suggests, the breed was primarily used to hunt elk. The Swedish Elkhound is acknowledged as an energetic hunter that possesses remarkable strength and courage. This breed was specifically developed to be a working dog. The breeding objective is to create not only a tall and big dog but one that is healthy as well . The dog has to adapt well to the rigors of hunting in heavily forested areas and to be able to scale rocky ledges and traverse deep snow in pursuit of prey. The Swedish Elkhiound was acclaimed for being an outstanding hunter not only of elks but of other game like moose, lynx and bear. Jamthund, the other name of the breed means bear dog in the local dialect.
This is a versatile breed. Primarily developed to be a hunter, the dog has adapted well to its environment so that it was given other duties as well. A Jamthund is also a herding dog, a utility dog, a guard dog and a sled dog . Due to the bravery and intelligence, this dog was used as an army dog and was named as the national dog of the Swedish Marine. The Swedish Air Force has chosen this breed to be their official service canine as well.
A Swedish Elkhound is a bold and aggressive hunter but the dog is noted to have a stoic demeanor. A Swedish Elkhound makes a wonderful companion dog as apart from an affectionate and friendly nature, this dog also has a stable and calm temperament. This breed makes wonderful family companions as aside from the love the dog gives to the family, it is especially kind and tolerant of the children.
Learn more about the Swedish Elkhound’s appearance, history, origin, personality and how to care for it at Sarah’s Dogs.
