Cavalier King Charles Spaniel vs Norwegian Elkhound

Toy · Small vs Hound · Medium

Quick take
  • Norwegian Elkhound is the larger breed at 55 lbs (males) vs 13–18 lbs for the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
  • The Norwegian Elkhound has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel sheds less.
  • The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCavalier King Charles SpanielNorwegian Elkhound
Group
ToyHound
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
EnglandNorway
Height (male)
12–13"19.5–20.5"
Height (female)
12–13"18–19"
Weight (male)
13–18 lbs55 lbs
Weight (female)
13–18 lbs48 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 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.
Moderate (3/5)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.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
mediummedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an affectionate, gentle, graceful spaniel — bred as a lapdog companion to British royalty. Originally from England, this small toy breed typically weighs 13–18 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, gentle, graceful.

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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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Mitral valve disease
  • Syringomyelia
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems

Norwegian Elkhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Progressive retinal atrophy
  • Hypothyroidism