Bullmastiff vs Norwegian Elkhound

Working · Large vs Hound · Medium

Quick take
  • Bullmastiff is the larger breed at 110–130 lbs (males) vs 55 lbs for the Norwegian Elkhound.
  • The Norwegian Elkhound typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Norwegian Elkhound has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Bullmastiff sheds less.
  • The Bullmastiff is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBullmastiffNorwegian Elkhound
Group
WorkingHound
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
EnglandNorway
Height (male)
25–27"19.5–20.5"
Height (female)
24–26"18–19"
Weight (male)
110–130 lbs55 lbs
Weight (female)
100–120 lbs48 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
7–9 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)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.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very High (5/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)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
Ad slot · compare-mid

About the Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff is an affectionate, loyal, brave gamekeeper's night dog — Mastiff-Bulldog cross bred to subdue poachers. Originally from England, this large working breed typically weighs 110–130 lbs and lives 7–9 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, loyal, brave.

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

Bullmastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Cancer
  • Heart problems

Norwegian Elkhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Progressive retinal atrophy
  • Hypothyroidism