How to Groom a Norwegian Elkhound

Norwegian Elkhounds are a loyal and steadfast breed. Resembling the German Shepherd, they have a stand-off gray colored double coat with a mixture of black and lighter tones as well. They are intelligent, obedient and energetic, and make great hunting dogs. Norwegian Elkhounds need a full grooming every 6 to 8 weeks and a general grooming at least once a week.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pin brush
• Slicker brush
• Detangling solution
• Protein coat conditioner
• Rubber brush
• Wooden comb
• Scissors

1. Brush out the dog's coat with a slicker brush, then move on to a comb out session. Use a coarse comb first, then comb through the coat with a medium comb. Use a protein coat conditioner or a detangling solution while brushing your dog's coat out. This can make the process much less painful for the dog. Make sure the brush reaches the skin or there may be some knots and tangles in the undercoat you aren't reaching.

2. Use a rubber brush or a wooden comb with metal teeth to brush out the under coat while the dog is shedding. During shedding, the dead hair clings to new hair growing in, so be vigilant about getting rid of it.

3. Bathe the dog with a protein-rich shampoo to add luster to the coat. Blow dry the dog after the bath and fluff dry with a pin brush or a slicker brush. Dry your Norwegian Elkhound's coat completely, as natural drying can lead to mildew, odor and skin problems.

4. Trim stray hairs around and under the feet with scissors. They should have a neat appearance.

Tips & Warnings

• Norwegian Elkhounds have a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years of age.
• Norwegian Elkhounds are one of the oldest breeds known to man. Archaeologists have found remains of this breed which date back to 5000 B.C.
• Norwegian Elkhounds have a tough, weather-resistant coat that is generally easy to manage. However, when they are shedding their undercoat, pay special attention to removing excess shed hair.
• This breed is susceptible to hip dysplasia, pyotraumatic dermatitis and PRA. Norwegian Elkhounds may also suffer from Fanconi syndrome. Norwegian Elkhounds gain weight very quickly, so don't overfeed them.