Norwegian Elkhound vs Samoyed
Hound · Medium vs Working · Medium
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
SamoyedMedium
An adaptable, friendly, gentle smiling Siberian — bred by nomadic Samoyed people to herd reindeer.
Weight: 45–65 lbsLifespan: 12–14 years
Quick take
- • Norwegian Elkhound is the larger breed at 55 lbs (males) vs 45–65 lbs for the Samoyed.
- • The Norwegian Elkhound typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Norwegian Elkhound sheds less.
- • The Samoyed is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Norwegian Elkhound | Samoyed |
|---|---|---|
Group | Hound | Working |
Size | Medium | Medium |
Origin | Norway | Russia |
Height (male) | 19.5–20.5" | 21–23.5" |
Height (female) | 18–19" | 19–21" |
Weight (male) | 55 lbs | 45–65 lbs |
Weight (female) | 48 lbs | 35–50 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 12–14 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
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) | High (4/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | medium | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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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 Samoyed
The Samoyed is an adaptable, friendly, gentle smiling Siberian — bred by nomadic Samoyed people to herd reindeer. Originally from Russia, this medium working breed typically weighs 45–65 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as adaptable, friendly, gentle.
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Norwegian Elkhound health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Progressive retinal atrophy
- • Hypothyroidism
Samoyed health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Diabetes
- • Eye disorders
- • Heart problems