Norwegian Elkhound vs Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Hound · Medium vs Terrier · Medium

Quick take
  • Norwegian Elkhound is the larger breed at 55 lbs (males) vs 28–38 lbs for the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
  • The Norwegian Elkhound typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Staffordshire Bull Terrier sheds less.
  • The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitNorwegian ElkhoundStaffordshire Bull Terrier
Group
HoundTerrier
Size
MediumMedium
Origin
NorwayEngland
Height (male)
19.5–20.5"14–16"
Height (female)
18–19"14–16"
Weight (male)
55 lbs28–38 lbs
Weight (female)
48 lbs24–34 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–14 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)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
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)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
mediumshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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 Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a clever, brave, tenacious bull-and-terrier — UK's beloved 'Staffy', famously gentle with kids. Originally from England, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 28–38 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as clever, brave, tenacious.

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Norwegian Elkhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Progressive retinal atrophy
  • Hypothyroidism

Staffordshire Bull Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye conditions
  • Skin allergies
  • Patellar luxation