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Compatibility With Children

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Swedish Elkhound

Other Names	Jämthund
Country of Origin	Sweden
Weight	Approximately 66 lbs. (30 kg)
Height (at withers)	Males: 22.5 - 25.5 in. (57 - 65 cm) Females: 20.5 - 23.5 in. (52 - 59.5 cm)
Coat	Double coat with close-lying outercoat and short, soft, light undercoat.
Colour	Light gray, dark gray; light gray or cream markings.
Litter Size	3 - 4 puppies
Life Span	12 - 14 years
Origin & History	The Jämthund received official recognition as a breed in 1946, due to intensive work by Aksel Lindström and others. Before that, the Jämthund and the Norwegian Elkhound were seen as the same breed. Despite this short history of official breed recognition, it is often claimed that Jämthunds have been raised by the locals in Jämtland since the end of the last ice age. They are used for moose hunting and sled pulling. In the local dialect, it used to be referred to as bear dog. It is one of very few dogs that will not back off from a bear.
Personality	Although calm and affectionate with its family, the Swedish Elkhound can be dominant with other dogs and has a strong prey drive. A truly all-around canine, it can go from a hunting trip and back to the family hearth with great aplomb. It takes things in stride and does not get ruffled easily, making it a steady partner in the field or at home. The Swedish Elkhound is a happy learner who loves to please its owner.

Health	There are no known breed-specific health concerns.
Grooming	Regular brushing is necessary to keep the dense undercoat from matting. Bathing should not be done too often because it tends to dry out the weather-resistant coat.
Exercise	As with most breeds developed for hunting, the Swedish Elkhound requires a lot of regular exercise to stay fit, both physically and mentally. It quickly becomes bored if kept indoors for too long and can become destructive.
Other Considerations	While it can live in an apartment, it may perform better in a small yard. It is important for owners to make sure this dog is never unleashed in an unsecured area, as it may run off in the direction of the first interesting scent it picks up. It is important for owners to make sure these dogs are given lots of space to move around in.