American Bulldog vs Norwegian Elkhound

Working · Large vs Hound · Medium

Quick take
  • American Bulldog is the larger breed at 75–100 lbs (males) vs 55 lbs for the Norwegian Elkhound.
  • The Norwegian Elkhound typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The American Bulldog sheds less.
  • The American Bulldog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAmerican BulldogNorwegian Elkhound
Group
WorkingHound
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
USANorway
Height (male)
22–25"19.5–20.5"
Height (female)
20–23"18–19"
Weight (male)
75–100 lbs55 lbs
Weight (female)
60–80 lbs48 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the American Bulldog

The American Bulldog is a loyal, athletic, hard-working farm guardian — taller and more athletic than the English Bulldog. Originally from USA, this large working breed typically weighs 75–100 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, athletic, hardworking.

About the Norwegian Elkhound

The Norwegian Elkhound is a friendly, dignified, confident Viking elk-hunting Spitz — Norway's national breed for over 6,000 years. Originally from Norway, this medium hound breed typically weighs 55 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, dignified, confident.

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American Bulldog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cherry eye
  • Skin allergies
  • Kidney disease

Norwegian Elkhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Progressive retinal atrophy
  • Hypothyroidism