Hällefors Elkhound

The Hälleforshund is a Swedish elk-baying spitz recognised only in 2000, one of the youngest Nordic hunting breeds.

History

Hunters around Hällefors in Västmanland developed it through the twentieth century from local spitz stock for the same work the Jämthund does: finding a moose, holding it and barking until the hunter arrives. Swedish recognition came late because the dogs were bred for the job long before anyone thought to write a standard.

Temperament

The breed is known for being steady, courageous and cooperative with its hunter, friendly at home and independent at work.

Care and training

It needs a great deal of exercise and genuine hunting work. The thick double coat sheds heavily twice a year.

Health

Generally hardy; nothing is widely documented as breed-specific. These are patterns for the breed rather than a forecast for one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.