Dachshund vs Norwegian Elkhound
Hound · Small vs Hound · Medium
DachshundSmall
A spirited, clever, courageous badger-hunter on stubby legs — the iconic 'wiener dog'.
Weight: 16–32 lbsLifespan: 12–16 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 16–32 lbs for the Dachshund.
- • The Dachshund typically lives longer (12–16 years).
- • The Dachshund sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Dachshund | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
Group | Hound | Hound |
Size | Small | Medium |
Origin | Germany | Norway |
Height (male) | 8–9" | 19.5–20.5" |
Height (female) | 8–9" | 18–19" |
Weight (male) | 16–32 lbs | 55 lbs |
Weight (female) | 16–32 lbs | 48 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–16 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | 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. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with kids | Moderate (3/5) | 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. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | short | medium |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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About the Dachshund
The Dachshund is a spirited, clever, courageous badger-hunter on stubby legs — the iconic 'wiener dog'. Originally from Germany, this small hound breed typically weighs 16–32 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as spunky, curious, friendly.
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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Dachshund health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • IVDD (back problems)
- • Obesity
- • Patellar luxation
- • Diabetes
Norwegian Elkhound health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Progressive retinal atrophy
- • Hypothyroidism