Norwegian Elkhound vs Pomeranian

Hound · Medium vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Norwegian Elkhound is the larger breed at 55 lbs (males) vs 3–7 lbs for the Pomeranian.
  • The Pomeranian typically lives longer (12–16 years).

Side-by-side traits

TraitNorwegian ElkhoundPomeranian
Group
HoundToy
Size
MediumToy
Origin
NorwayGermany
Height (male)
19.5–20.5"6–7"
Height (female)
18–19"6–7"
Weight (male)
55 lbs3–7 lbs
Weight (female)
48 lbs3–7 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–16 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.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
mediumlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
Ad slot · compare-mid

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.

About the Pomeranian

The Pomeranian is a bold, lively, inquisitive fluffy spitz — descended from sled dogs, now under 10 lbs of pure attitude. Originally from Germany, this toy toy breed typically weighs 3–7 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as bold, lively, inquisitive.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Norwegian Elkhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Progressive retinal atrophy
  • Hypothyroidism

Pomeranian health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Tracheal collapse
  • Heart disease
  • Dental issues