Australian Terrier vs Norwegian Elkhound
Terrier · Small vs Hound · Medium
Australian TerrierSmall
A spirited, alert, courageous Australian outback ratter — the first breed developed Down Under.
Weight: 15–20 lbsLifespan: 11–15 years
Norwegian ElkhoundMedium
A friendly, dignified, confident Viking elk-hunting Spitz — Norway's national breed for over 6,000 years.
Weight: 55 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Norwegian Elkhound is the larger breed at 55 lbs (males) vs 15–20 lbs for the Australian Terrier.
- • The Norwegian Elkhound typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Australian Terrier sheds less.
- • The Australian Terrier is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Australian Terrier | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Hound |
Size | Small | Medium |
Origin | Australia | Norway |
Height (male) | 10–11" | 19.5–20.5" |
Height (female) | 10–11" | 18–19" |
Weight (male) | 15–20 lbs | 55 lbs |
Weight (female) | 15–20 lbs | 48 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 11–15 years | 12–15 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. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | 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. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | medium |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
Ad slot · compare-mid
About the Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is a spirited, alert, courageous Australian outback ratter — the first breed developed Down Under. Originally from Australia, this small terrier breed typically weighs 15–20 lbs and lives 11–15 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, alert, courageous.
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.
Ad slot · compare-bottom
Australian Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Diabetes
- • Allergies
Norwegian Elkhound health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Progressive retinal atrophy
- • Hypothyroidism