Monday, August 20, 2012

The Magnificent Swedish Elkhound

By Jerry Welsh


The Swedish Elkhound is a very ancient breed believed to have existed in 1000s. Ancestors of this breed are speculated to be the dogs kept by the Stone Age people. Swedish Elkhounds were developed in Jamtland, a province in northwestern Sweden. This breed of magnificent conformation has been kept by people in Jamtland at the end of the last ice age. Thus, the dog also 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 tail in the shape of a scimitar add to the already striking appearance of the dog

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. A Swedish Elkhound was primarily bred 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. The name Jamthund in fact is a local dialect that means bear dog.

The Swedish Elkhound is a versatile breed. Although specifically developed to be a hunter, the dog has remarkable abilities to perform other jobs as well. The Jamthund apart from being a utility dog has become a herding dog, a guard dog and a sled dog as well . This brave and intelligent dog has become an army dog as well and was honored by being chosen as the national dog of the Swedish Marine. The Swedish Air Force has chosen this breed to be their official service canine as well.

In spite of the bold and aggressive nature shown when hunting, the dog has a stoic behavior. The dog possesses the stable and calm temperament, the affection and the friendly nature of an outstanding companion dog. This breed makes wonderful family companions as aside from the love the dog gives to the family, it is especially kind and tolerant of the children.




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