Dutch Smoushond vs Norwegian Elkhound Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Dutch Ratter or Elkhound?
Compare the Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Dutch Ratter or a Elkhound? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you
Other names
Dutch Ratter, Hollandse Smoushond
Norsk Elghund, Grå Norsk Elghund, Harmaa Norjanhirvikoira, Gray Norwegian Elkhound, Small Grey Elk Dog, Norwegian Moose Dog, Elkhound
Weight
What is the average weight of Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound?
21.0 pounds
( 10 kg )
45.0 pounds
( 20 kg )
Height
What is the average height of Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound
15.5 inches
( 39.4 cm )
16.5 inches
( 41.9 cm )
Weight Gain Potential
Which breed eats more: Dutch Smoushond or Norwegian Elkhound?
Dutch Smoushond has low obesity risk, but needs exercise and food monitoring for optimal health.
Norwegian Elkhound has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.
Hypoallergenic
Are Dutch Smoushonds or Norwegian Elkhounds hypoallergenic, or neither?
No
Unfortunately, neither Dutch Smoushond nor Norwegian Elkhound are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.
Temperament
What are the personalities of Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound dogs?
Do Dutch Smoushonds shed more than Norwegian Elkhounds, or which breed sheds more, Dutch Smoushonds or Norwegian Elkhounds?
Dutch Smoushonds are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.
Norwegian Elkhounds are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.
Watchdog Ability
Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Dutch Smoushond or Norwegian Elkhound?
Dutch Smoushonds are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.
Choose a Norwegian Elkhound if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.
Origin
What is the origin of Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound dog breeds?
Netherlands
Norway
Ancestry
What are the origins of Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound breeds?
Poodle, Brussels Griffon, Border Terrier and German Schnauzer
northern spitz
Date of Birth
When were Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound breeds first developed?
Unknown
500 BC
Breed Group
What is the Breed Group of Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound?
Terrier
Hound (AKC:1913) Northern Breeds (UKC)
Eye Color Possibilites
What are the eye colors of Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound dogs?
Brown
Nose Color Possibilites
What are the natural nose colors of Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound?
Black
Coat Color Possibilites
What are the natural colors of the coat for Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound breeds?
Cream
Gray Silver
Coat Length
What is the typical coat length for Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound breeds?
The coat of Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound dogs falls in the medium-length category.
Coat Density
What is the density of the coat of Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound?
Coat Texture
What is the hair texture of Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound?
Wiry
Straight
Litter Size
What is the usual litter size for Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound?
12-15 puppies per pregnancy
A Dutch Smoushond can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.
10-12 puppies per pregnancy
A Norwegian Elkhound can have a litter of 10-12 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.
Adaptability
Dutch Smoushonds have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.
Norwegian Elkhounds are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.
Health Issues
Between Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound, which breed is more prone to health problems?
Dutch Smoushonds are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.
While the Norwegian Elkhound breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.
Major Concerns
What are the major health concerns for Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound breeds?
Patellar Luxation Hip Dysplasia Eye Problems
Hip Dysplasia
Minor Concerns
What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound?
What occasional tests are recommended for Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound breeds?
OFA Yearly Eye Exam Yearly Physical Examination
Eye Hip Thyroid Tests X-Rays Eye Examination Physical Examination
Energy
How do the energy levels of Dutch Smoushonds and Norwegian Elkhounds compare?
Dutch Smoushonds are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.
Norwegian Elkhounds thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.
Social Needs
Dutch Smoushond vs Norwegian Elkhound social needs comparison
Dutch Smoushond has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.
Norwegian Elkhound has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.
Exercise Needed
Dutch Smoushond vs Norwegian Elkhound exercise need comparison.
Dutch Smoushonds need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.
Norwegian Elkhounds require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.
Sleeping Need
Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Dutch Smoushond or Norwegian Elkhound?
Dutch Smoushonds have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.
Norwegian Elkhounds are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.
Drooling Tendency
Which drools more/less, Dutch Smoushond or Norwegian Elkhound?
Dutch Smoushond is an average drooler, monitor for excessive drooling which may indicate health issues.
Norwegian Elkhound minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.
Tendency to Bark
Do Dutch Smoushonds or Norwegian Elkhounds bark more/less frequently?
Dutch Smoushond dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.
Norwegian Elkhound dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.
Territorial
Is the Dutch Smoushond or Norwegian Elkhound a better guard dog?
Dutch Smoushond dogs have a strong protective nature and territorial instinct. They are highly vigilant and will fiercely defend their home and family.
While Norwegian Elkhound dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.
Mouthiness
Mouthiness Comparison: Dutch Smoushond vs Norwegian Elkhound?
Roaming urge
Dutch Smoushond vs Labrador: Running away tendency?
Prey Drive
Dutch Smoushond or Norwegian Elkhound - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?
Past times
What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound entertained?
Walking, Car rides, Tug-of-war
Trailing, Hiking
Activity Level
Which breed has higher energy, Dutch Smoushonds or Norwegian Elkhounds?
High
Dutch Smoushonds are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.
Medium
Norwegian Elkhounds are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.
Tolerance of being left alone
Walks per Week
How many miles should Dutch Smoushond or Norwegian Elkhound walk each week?
12 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Dutch Smoushond, it's at least 12 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
8 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Norwegian Elkhound, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
Activity per Day
Do Dutch Smoushonds or Norwegian Elkhounds require more exercise?
60 minutes
In general most Dutch Smoushonds usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.
45 minutes
In general most Norwegian Elkhounds usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.
Grooming
Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Dutch Smoushonds or Norwegian Elkhounds?
The Dutch Smoushond has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.
The Norwegian Elkhound requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.
Brushing Frequency
What is the recommended brushing frequency for Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound dogs?
Weekly
Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound should be brushed at least once a week. Of course, you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot.
Brushing Tools
What brushing tools are used for Dutch Smoushonds and Norwegian Elkhounds?
Comb Scissors Nail Clipper
Slicker Brush Comb Deshedder Nail Clipper
Cups
How much food should be given to Dutch Smoushond or Norwegian Elkhound in cups?
1 cups
For an average 20-22 pound (9 - 10 kg) Dutch Smoushond feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.
2.5 cups
For an average 48-55 pound (22 - 25 kg) Norwegian Elkhound feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.
Daily Cost
Which breed has a higher daily cost, Dutch Smoushond or Norwegian Elkhound?
$1.30 - $1.40 / day
The average cost of a Dutch Smoushond is somewhere $1.30 - $1.40 per day.
$1.70 - $2.00 / day
The average cost of a Norwegian Elkhound is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.
Monthly Cost
Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Dutch Smoushond or Norwegian Elkhound?
$35 - $42 / month
The average per month expenses of a Dutch Smoushond is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.
$48 - $63 / month
The average per month expenses of a Norwegian Elkhound is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.
Intelligence
Comparing Intelligence: Dutch Smoushonds vs Norwegian Elkhounds
Dutch Smoushonds are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.
Norwegian Elkhound is a very intelligent and trainable breed.
Sensitivity Level
How do Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound compare in sensitivity?
These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.
Affection Dependance
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Dutch Smoushond vs Norwegian Elkhound?
Apartment Friendly
Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Dutch Smoushond or Norwegian Elkhound?
The Dutch Smoushond is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.
Norwegian Elkhounds are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.
Child Friendly
Do Dutch Smoushonds or Norwegian Elkhounds have a friendlier temperament towards children?
Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.
Senior-friendly
Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Dutch Smoushond or Norwegian Elkhound?
Cat Friendly
Do Dutch Smoushond or Norwegian Elkhound breeds have a better compatibility with cats?
Dutch Smoushonds are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.
Norwegian Elkhounds are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.
Dog Friendly
Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Dutch Smoushond or Norwegian Elkhound?
Dutch Smoushonds are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.
Norwegian Elkhounds are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.
Pet friendly
How do Dutch Smoushond or Norwegian Elkhound dogs interact with other pets?
Stranger Friendly
Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Dutch Smoushond or Norwegian Elkhound?
Dutch Smoushonds are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.
Norwegian Elkhounds are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.
Playfulness
Which breed is more playful between Dutch Smoushond and Norwegian Elkhound?
Dutch Smoushonds are not known for being a highly playful breed.
Norwegian Elkhounds have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.
Trainability
How do the trainability levels of Dutch Smoushonds and Norwegian Elkhounds compare?
Dutch Smoushonds are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.
Norwegian Elkhounds are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.
