Bedlington Terrier vs Norwegian Elkhound

Terrier · Small vs Hound · Medium

Quick take
  • Norwegian Elkhound is the larger breed at 55 lbs (males) vs 17–23 lbs for the Bedlington Terrier.
  • The Bedlington Terrier sheds less.
  • The Bedlington Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBedlington TerrierNorwegian Elkhound
Group
TerrierHound
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
EnglandNorway
Height (male)
16–17.5"19.5–20.5"
Height (female)
15–16.5"18–19"
Weight (male)
17–23 lbs55 lbs
Weight (female)
17–23 lbs48 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–16 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.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)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
wirehairedmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier is a spirited, demonstrative, mild lamb-shaped terrier — looks like a sheep, fights like a tiger. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 17–23 lbs and lives 11–16 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, demonstrative, mild.

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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Bedlington Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Copper toxicosis
  • Eye disorders
  • Patellar luxation

Norwegian Elkhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Progressive retinal atrophy
  • Hypothyroidism