Boxer vs Norwegian Elkhound

Working · Large vs Hound · Medium

Quick take
  • Boxer is the larger breed at 65–80 lbs (males) vs 55 lbs for the Norwegian Elkhound.
  • The Norwegian Elkhound typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Boxer has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Boxer sheds less.
  • The Boxer is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBoxerNorwegian Elkhound
Group
WorkingHound
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
GermanyNorway
Height (male)
23–25"19.5–20.5"
Height (female)
21.5–23.5"18–19"
Weight (male)
65–80 lbs55 lbs
Weight (female)
50–65 lbs48 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)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.
Very High (5/5)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.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)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 Boxer

The Boxer is a bright, fun-loving, active working dog — eternally puppyish, devoted to family, wary of strangers. Originally from Germany, this large working breed typically weighs 65–80 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as bright, fun-loving, active.

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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Boxer health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Heart conditions
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat

Norwegian Elkhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Progressive retinal atrophy
  • Hypothyroidism