Hällefors Elkhound
Also known as Hälleforshund · Hällefors Dog
Sweden, Spitz and northern dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 52–63 cm
- Weight
- 20–30 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Courageous
- Persistent
- Energetic
- Independent
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Hällefors Elkhound is a medium-sized Swedish spitz bred for hunting moose. It is slightly longer than tall, with a harsh, dense yellow coat ranging from fawn to reddish and a curled or sickle tail. It is popular with Scandinavian hunters but rarely seen elsewhere.
Size
- Size
- Medium
- Height at shoulder
- 52–63 cm
- Adult weight
- 20–30 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Most reach adult size by around 12 months.
Lifespan
12–15 years
Most Hällefors Elkhounds live 12–15 years. Like other medium dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 8, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
Hällefors Elkhounds are energetic, brave and persistent, with plenty of character. Like other elk-hunting spitz, they work independently and bark to hold game at bay.
- Courageous
- Persistent
- Energetic
- Independent
Food
For a typical 25 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,250 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 1 L–1.5 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
90–120 min a dayThis is a hunting dog that needs long daily outings, ideally in forest. It suits active, outdoor homes rather than town life.
Grooming & shedding
The thick double coat needs a weekly brush and more frequent grooming during the seasonal moult.
Health
Expect an independent, vocal dog with a strong hunting drive, so reliable recall takes work. Training should be patient and reward-based. Most dogs are bred from hunting lines in Sweden, Norway and Finland.
The breed can be prone to
- No well-documented breed-specific health problems
- Hip dysplasia is a general risk in medium and large breeds
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scoring
Not every Hällefors Elkhound is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Despite its name, the breed is often said to have been developed in Fredriksberg in Ludvika municipality rather than in Hällefors itself. Its ancestry includes the Finnish Spitz and the Ostyak Laika. It was used mainly for moose hunting, and the Swedish Kennel Club recognised it in 2000.
- Country of origin
- Sweden
- Type
- Spitz and northern dogs
- Recognition
- Recognised by the Swedish Kennel Club (2000) and by kennel clubs in Finland and Norway; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Hällefors Elkhound right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
Hällefors Elkhound FAQ
How big does a Hällefors Elkhound get?
Adult Hällefors Elkhounds typically stand about 52–63 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 20–30 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Hällefors Elkhounds live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Hällefors Elkhound need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Hällefors Elkhound need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Hällefors Elkhounds easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Hällefors Elkhounds shed?
Quite a lot. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control — expect more around spring and autumn.
Are Hällefors Elkhounds good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Hällefors Elkhound live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Hällefors Elkhounds have?
The breed can be prone to no well-documented breed-specific health problems, hip dysplasia is a general risk in medium and large breeds. Not every Hällefors Elkhound is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.