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Swedish Elkhound

dog breed

Photo · Wikipedia FR (CC BY-SA)

Weight

5–30 kg

Size

Medium

Lifespan

11–14 ans

Energy

Élevé

Origin

Suède

Coat

Light gray and dark gray.

Maintenance

Élevé

Training

Moyen

The Swedish Elkhound or Jämthund is a dog breed originating from Sweden. It is a spitz-type breed with a gray coat used as a hunting dog for big game, particularly the moose. The breed standard was long confused with that of the Gray Norwegian Elkhound.

Profile

At a glance

Energy

Élevé

Trainability

Modéré

Maintenance

Élevé

Indicative profile — every animal is an individual.

⚡ Key facts in 30 seconds

L'essentiel

  • 1Medium size (5–30 kg) — balance between presence and practicality.
  • 2Life expectancy: 11 to 14 years on average, depending on hygiene and diet.
  • 3High energy level — at least 1 hour of activity per day for balance.
  • 4Regular grooming — brushing 3 to 5 times per week.

Chapter 1

Getting to know the Swedish Elkhound

Origins & history

A story told

The Swedish Elkhound is a very ancient dog breed that has existed since northern Sweden was populated. The Swedish Elkhound was used for hunting moose and also for bear and lynx. The breed was first confused and judged in dog shows with the Gray Norwegian Elkhound. The Swedish Elkhound is recognized as a distinct breed in 1946.

Character

Daily temperament

The FCI standard describes the Swedish Elkhound as courageous, energetic and impassive.

Physical

Breed standard

The Swedish Elkhound is a spitz-type dog of strong constitution, without being heavy. The body is inscribed in a square and must not give the impression of being long. Attached high, the tail of medium length and equal thickness is carried curled over or against the back. The coat is bushy, without forming fringes. The head is rather long and relatively wide between the ears. The eyes are slightly oval in shape and brown in color. Attached high, the pointed ears are slightly longer than they are wide. The inner surface of the ear is well covered with hair. The topcoat is well-laid without being flattened. The undercoat is short, soft and light in color, preferably cream. The coat color is gray: characteristic markings of light gray or cream color are found on the lateral faces of the muzzle, on the cheeks, throat, chest, belly, legs and under the tail.

What if you adopted your future companion?

The Swedish Elkhound of your dreams may already be waiting in a shelter. Hundreds of swedish elkhound (and equally wonderful crossbreeds) are looking for a family in France — every adoption starts a new story.

Editorial recommendation — no affiliate links.

Âge

What human age for a swedish elkhound ?

The calculator is already set to the breed's adult size (espérance de vie 11–14 ans). Drag the slider to see the equivalence and corresponding life stage.

3 years
Birth22 years
Adult size

10 à 22 kg — a giant dog ages significantly faster than a small dog after maturity.

Equivalent human age

29years

Adulte

Most stable period. Monthly weigh-in, annual vet visit, dental care — this determines quality of life in later years.

Method: AVMA table: 15 human years in year one, +9 in year two, then +5 per year for a moyen dog.

These equivalences are statistical benchmarks drawn from published veterinary tables. Every animal ages at its own pace, depending on genetics, diet and care. This calculator is neither a diagnosis nor veterinary advice.

Alert

To avoid for dog

Our database lists toxic ingredients and problematic additives by species.

  • low-fat cocoa powderModerate
  • maltitolModerate
  • cocoa pasteModerate
  • onion piecesModerate

Calculator · daily ration

How much to give a swedish elkhound ?

Estimate based on the veterinary formula RER × DER, adjusted for dog. Adjust according to package recommendations.

18 kg
5 kg33 kg
Moderate

Result

221 g

per day · 839 kcal

111 g / repas (2 par jour)

Calculation for food of 380 kcal/100g.

For an exact calculation for your Swedish Elkhound (breed, age, allergies, health conditions): create a free account

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Swedish Elkhound

Is the Swedish Moose Dog suitable for apartment living?+
It depends on the individual: their size requires space and exercise, provided their outdoor activity needs are met.
How much exercise per day for a Swedish Moose Dog?+
Plan for about 1 hour of daily exercise — brisk walks, play, or canine sports.
What is the life expectancy of a Swedish Moose Dog?+
Between 11 and 14 years on average. Appropriate nutrition, regular veterinary care, and exercise help extend their lifespan.
Is the Swedish Moose Dog good with children?+
This depends on the individual: early socialization and mutual respect are key. Never leave a young child alone with any animal, regardless of breed.

If you like this dog

Breeds with similar profiles

For more information

Sources & official links

Supplementary documentation on reference sites — breed clubs, encyclopedias, veterinarians.

The right score for your Swedish Elkhound.

SokoScan calculates a personalized PawScore based on breed, age, weight and your pet's sensitivities. Free, instant.