Dog Training Review

The Swedish Elkhound is a very old breed believed to have been around during the 1000s. The companion dogs of the Stone Age people are speculated to be the ancestors of this breed. Swedish Elkhounds were developed in Jamtland, a province in northwestern Sweden. During the later part of the last Ice Age, the Jamtland people have developed the Swedish Elkhound, a breed of dog with an outstanding stature. 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 scimitar shaped tail is another feature that gives this breed an impressive appearance

As implied by the name, a Swedish Elkhound was developed to be an elk hunter. 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 was aimed at creating a taller and bigger dog with a strong constitution . The dog has to have remarkable ability to adapt to the densely forested areas, to have the ability to climb steep rocky ledges and to easily negotiate deep snow when trailing a prey. The Swedish Elkhound has gained a name for being an outstanding hunter not only of elk but of moose, lynx, bear and other game. Jamthund, the other name of the breed means bear dog in the local dialect.

This is a versatile breed. The Swedish Elkhound is a dog that is first and foremost a hunter but the breed has adapted well to doing other duties. A Jamthund is also a herding dog, a utility dog, a guard dog and a sled dog . Brave and intelligent, the dog was utilized as an army dog and was given the honor of being the national dog of the Swedish Marine. The Swedish Air Force has chosen this breed to be their official service canine as well.

Bold and aggressive when hunting, a Swedish Elkhound is known for its 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. A Swedish Elkhound is a breed that makes an ideal family pet as it has lots of love to give the family and noted to be gentle and kind with the children.

Learn more about the Swedish Elkhound breed at Sarah’s Dogs.