New Zealand Huntaway vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison

New Zealand Huntaway vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed ComparisonNew Zealand Huntaway is originated from New Zealand but Black Norwegian Elkhound is originated from Norway. New Zealand Huntaway may grow 11 cm / 5 inches higher than Black Norwegian Elkhound. New Zealand Huntaway may weigh 20 kg / 45 pounds more than Black Norwegian Elkhound. Both New Zealand Huntaway and Black Norwegian Elkhound has almost same life span. Both New Zealand Huntaway and Black Norwegian Elkhound has almost same litter size. New Zealand Huntaway requires Moderate maintenance. But Black Norwegian Elkhound requires Low maintenance

History

new zealand huntaway - historyThe New Zealand Huntaway was developed in New Zealand. The dog was brought about by mixing the Border Collie with a number of other breeds, of which the Doberman Pinscher is one.

The idea was to have a skilled herding dog for livestock, and the Huntaway is known for its loud bark which it uses to herd.

The dog is looked upon as as a fairly new breed, dating from the late 19th century. These days it is a popular companion dog, and in 2013 was recognized by the New Zealand Kennel Club.

black norwegian elkhound - historyThe Black Norwegian Elkhound was first bred in Norway in the early part of the 19th century as a smaller version of the Grey Norwegian Elkhound. The Black version is a Spitz and is very seldom seen anywhere in world but Norway. He is designed for the same job that the Grey Norwegian Elkhound performed. The difference is that the Black Norwegian is smaller, easier to see in the snow and ice of Norway and smaller than the Grey. It is a hunter, a herder, a guard dog and a watch dog. Because of the temperatures in Norway it was very important to have a hunting dog that was able to deal with the cold, the snow and the heavy fall rains in Norway and Scandinavia. The Black Norwegian Elkhound is a powerful and prideful dog. Much more so than the grey, he is independent and strongminded. It is highly intelligent and is one of the most ancient of breeds. He is more durable and more quarrelsome than his cousin the Grey Norwegian Elkhound or the more familiar Swedish Elkhound.

Ancestors of the Black date back to the first days human kind went hunting around 4000-5000BC. There have been skeletons of dogs very much like the Black Norwegian Elkhound found that dated back to that time period. They hunted and guarded for the Vikings and pulled sleds as well. They hunted deer, moose, badger, elk, mountain lions, bears, wolves, lynx, rabbit and reindeer. They are trackers who hold their quarry at bay by barking until the hunter can find them. Today they serve as loved family pets and guard dogs. In a National Emergency the leader of Norway can call up all the privately-owned elkhounds of any kind and assign them to work in a variety of sledding duties. Within the FCI, the Black Norwegian Elkhound is classified as a primitive Nordic hunting dog.

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Herding dogs
Origin:
New Zealand
Norway
Height Male:
50 - 60 cm
19 - 24 inches
44 - 49 cm
17 - 20 inches
Height Female:
50 - 60 cm
19 - 24 inches
43 - 46 cm
16 - 19 inches
Weight Male:
25 - 40 kg
55 - 89 pounds
16 - 20 kg
35 - 45 pounds
Weight Female:
25 - 40 kg
55 - 89 pounds
16 - 19 kg
35 - 42 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 14 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 7
4 - 6
Size:
Medium dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
New Zealand Sheepdog
Norsk Elghund Svart Norsk Elghund Black Black Elkhound Norwegian Moose Dog (black)
Colors Available:
brindle, Black and tan
black
Coat:
Smooth or rough textured
Dense, short double coat
Shedding:
Moderate
Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Alert, Curious, Intelligent, Loyal, Stubborn
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
No

Description

new zealand huntaway puppy - descriptionAs a deep chested, medium to large sized dog, the New Zealand Huntaway stands at between 50 and 60cm and weighs roughly 25 to 40kg.

The eyes are soft and kind. The coat is usually black and tan colored, although it can be brindle too. The coat is in different textures and can be mostly smooth, but also fairly rough textured. The ears are usually medium length and floppy, the legs straight and long and the tail is long.

Temperament:

These dogs are good natured and are guaranteed to make a splendid family pet. Because they have always been used to life in the country, they are more suited to this lifestyle than for living in the city.

They are friendly, energetic dogs and will require a good deal of exercise.They don’t take easily to lying around bored and this lifestyle will just lead to frustration and destructive behavior, through no fault of their own.

Just like with any other dog, the New Zealand Huntaway will need to be trained and socialized so that he becomes obedient and well rounded. This is necessary for him as he is an independent canine with a determined streak.

His intelligence will mean he is able to learn easily. He also is gentle and kind-hearted, and gets on well with kids and pets in the home.

black norwegian elkhound puppy - descriptionThe Black Norwegian Elkhound is a short compact Spitz with dark eyes and a curly tail. It is the coat that sets this dog apart. It is an all-weather coat suitable for the cold, the snow and the rain of Norway. Ears are pointed and erect while the head is wedged and broad. His head is almost like that of a wolf. Its body is strong and compact. Its coat is coarse, short and double. He has a broad black nose with a straight bridge and with black lips and dark brown oval eyes. His legs and withers are strong boned and powerful with well padded feet to protect it from the freezing temperatures of Scandinavia.

Characteristics

new zealand huntaway dog - characteristicsThe Huntaway has got so much going for him to make him a splendid family pet. Not only is he intelligent, but he is evenly balanced, friendly, social and active.

He can easily be trained and socialized. He is friendly and gentle with other pets in the home as well as with children. With a firm, fair, kind, patient and consistent owner in his life, this dog with the gentle brown eyes will be a fantastic pet for you.

black norwegian elkhound dog - characteristicsThis dog was made for families. He loves children and is not a one person dogs. He gets attached to everyone in the family. However, he is smart and stubborn. He loves to join in with whatever the family is doing but he does it to please himself not his owner. He loves, loves, loves to play and has the stamina to do so all day long. He is agile, bold, independent, strong, curious and loyal. His loyalty can be territorial, and he can become protective of his home and his family. This makes him an excellent watchdog until your friends come to visit and he won’t let them in the house. You need a high fence to keep him safe in your own yard and away from strangers and even guests till he gets to know them.He tends to be dominant and aggressive with other dogs. They also have strong hunting instincts.

Health Problems

new zealand huntaway puppies - health problemsThe Huntaway is the kind of dog that won’t require you having to rush off to the vet with him. Good care with nutritious food and exercise can see him reaching 14 years of age or so.

Some common dog illnesses to look out for include -

Dilated Caridomyopathy:

This disease is about degeneration of the heart muscle with the muscle becoming thinner. The pressure of the blood inside the heart causes these thin walls to stretch, resulting in the heart becoming enlarged.

Although heart disease develops slowly, severe congestive heart failure can develop quickly and you may notice rapid breathing and a blue tongue. It is imperative to get your pet to the vet immediately.

Small studies have revealed that the rate of Dilated Caridomyopathy could be higher in Huntaways.

Hip Dysplasia:

This is an issue where the hips haven’t formed properly. Affected dogs lose their mobility and battle with pain and lameness. Certainly you will need to get your pet to the vet to make sure that he is pain-free and comfortable.

black norwegian elkhound puppies - health problemsThe Black Norwegian Elkhound is a strong and hardy dog, though he is susceptible to some of the problems many breeds face. These include issues with luxating patella, optical entropion, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and Fanconi syndrome. The most serious of these is the Fanconi Syndrome which is an abnormal functioning in the tubules of the kidneys. This can be a life-threatening situation.

Caring The Pet

Grooming:

new zealand huntaway dogs - caringThis dog is an average shedder and fairly low maintenance, requiring you to brush him twice a week to keep the coat shiny and free from loose hairs.

Dogs that have floppy- or folded ears need to have their ears checked for infection as well as their eyes. They also need to have the nails trimmed as left long, they can hook onto things which can rip into the dog’s flesh.

Diet:

The Huntaway is a herding dog, and even though your dog today is more of a companion dog, he will need to be fed a high-quality commercial dog food which has been particularly formulated for active working dog breeds.

It is a good idea to sometimes break away from a bowl of kibble and to mix in some homemade food. The simpler the better for your dog, and boiled chicken, some brown rice or pasta and some vegetables such as sweet potato, carrots and spinach mixed into his kibble occasionally will do him the world of good.

Now and then you can also add in some raw meat if possible. Avoid exotic, spicy foods with your pet to avoid digestive problems.

Exercise:

This dog has always been a hunting, herding dog so it is going to require a lot of exercise to keep him content and happy.

He won’t only need physical exercise but will also need mental stimulation as he is an intelligent dog too. Apart from taking him for walks and giving him ball- and rope games, for mental stimulation, why not consider some food puzzle toys?

These are sturdy containers that hold dog food and treats inside. Dogs have to paw at it, lick, shake and think up ways to get at the tasty treat. These food puzzle toys will keep your pet occupied for a while and keep him happily thinking.

black norwegian elkhound dogs - caringThis is an energetic active dog, or she should be. Feed her high nutritious food twice a day. Do not overfeed.

The most potentially troublesome health issue is Fanconi Syndrome. This kidney disorder can impact the of the body’s absorption of electrolytes, water and nutrients. These nutrients include Sodium, Potassium, Glucose, Phosphate, Amino Acids and Phosphate

The Black Norwegian Elkhound loves to play, and they love to work. Exercise is vital, but it must be one of those two things – play or work. Don’t leave him alone to figure it out for himself or you wont like what this intelligent dog decides to do. She needs a large yard, a long walk daily but jogging with you is even better. Make him heel when on leash or he will think he oversees you. These are roaming dogs who will follow a scent anywhere and ignore your commands for her to come to you. They are better off on a leash unless you are in a dog park or a fenced yard.

The Black Norwegian Elkhound is great at all dog athletics, games and sports such as agility, rally obedience, flyball, tracking, herding.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs New Zealand Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  2. Pyrenean Shepherd vs New Zealand Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  3. Queensland Heeler vs New Zealand Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  4. Red Heeler vs New Zealand Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  5. New Zealand Huntaway vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  6. New Zealand Huntaway vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  7. New Zealand Huntaway vs Australian Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  8. New Zealand Huntaway vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  9. New Zealand Huntaway vs Collie - Breed Comparison
  10. New Zealand Huntaway vs Austrailian Blue Heeler - Breed Comparison
  11. New Zealand Huntaway vs Dutch Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  12. New Zealand Huntaway vs Blue Healer - Breed Comparison
  13. New Zealand Huntaway vs English Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  14. New Zealand Huntaway vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  15. New Zealand Huntaway vs Catahoula Cur - Breed Comparison
  16. New Zealand Huntaway vs Australian Red Heeler - Breed Comparison
  17. New Zealand Huntaway vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  18. New Zealand Huntaway vs Bergamasco - Breed Comparison
  19. New Zealand Huntaway vs Berger Picard - Breed Comparison
  20. New Zealand Huntaway vs Appenzell Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  21. New Zealand Huntaway vs German Coolie - Breed Comparison
  22. New Zealand Huntaway vs Bohemian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  23. New Zealand Huntaway vs Croatian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  24. New Zealand Huntaway vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  25. New Zealand Huntaway vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  26. Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  27. Collie vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  28. Dutch Shepherd vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  29. English Shepherd vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  30. Catahoula Cur vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  31. Catalan Sheepdog vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  32. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  33. Appenzell Mountain Dog vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  34. Queensland Heeler vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  35. German Coolie vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  36. Croatian Sheepdog vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  37. Red Heeler vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  38. New Zealand Huntaway vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  39. Norwegian Buhund vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  40. Polish Lowland Sheepdog vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  41. Mudi vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  42. Schapendoes vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  43. Nenets Herding Laika vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  44. Scotch Collie vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  45. Smithfield vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  46. Smooth Collie vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  47. Spanish Water Dog vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  48. Swedish Lapphund vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  49. Swedish Vallhund vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  50. Thai Bangkaew vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds