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Swedish White Elkhound
What is a merged breed?
Basepaws analyzes this breed as part of a group that also includes Swedish Elkhound, Swedish White Elkhound.
Despite being distinct in characteristics and origin, some pairs or groups of breeds lack the number of genetic differences required to distinguish these populations from one another, particularly when only a subset of these differences are inherited by a mixed breed dog. As we continue to expand our breed database, we aim to increase the resolution of our ancestry algorithm such that differentiating between increasingly specific ancestral sources becomes possible.
The Swedish White Elkhound breed is said to have started in 1942 in Jamtland County, Sweden. Light colored puppies would occasionally be born in purebred Swedish Elkhound or Norwegian Elkhound litters. During the 1960s white dogs were common in northern parts of Sweden. In 1987, people were interested in finding out how many white dogs there were and whether they made suitable hunting dogs. These dogs were mainly found in western and northern Sweden. In the early 1990s over 300 dogs were recognized and proven to be suitable for hunting elk. In 1993, the Swedish kennel Club recognized the Swedish White Elkhound as a distinct breed.
Main Info
- Origin
- Sweden
- Dog Size
- Medium
- Alternate Names
- Jämthund, Jämthund Elkhound
- Life Expectancy
- 12-14 years
- Average Male Height
- 22.5-25.5 inches
- Average Female Height
- 20.5-23.5 inches
- Average Male Weight
- 66-77 lbs
- Average Female Weight
- 55-66 lbs
- Hypoallergenic
- No
- Activity Level
- High
- Shedding
- Heavy
- Grooming requirement
- Heavy
- Coat Length
- Medium
- Coat Type
- Double
- Coat Colors
- Lighter Gray, Darker Gray
- Coat Pattern
- Light Gray or Cream (Muzzle, Cheeks, Throat, Chest, Belly, Under Tail)
Genetic Predispositions and Health
The Swedish White Elkhound may suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia, skin allergies, hypothyroidism, progressive retinal atrophy or hearing issues. As for all breeds, genetic screening is recommended to assist veterinarians with diagnosis and proactive care, as well as help breeders identify affected and carrier dogs.
Personality and Behavior
The Swedish White Elkhound was originally bred to hunt elk and bear. They are high energy and need daily physical and mental stimulation. Although they have a hunting background, they are still gentle and affectionate with their families, and when socialized early, are good with children and other pets.
Fun Facts
Some believe the Swedish White Elkhound possesses a remarkable ability to stop elk in their tracks, almost as though the animals had been struck by lightning. According to one theory, the dogs’ white coats startle the elk and cause them to freeze.
References
https://vgl.ucdavis.edu/breed/swedish-elkhound
https://www.ukcdogs.com/swedish-elkhound
https://www.skk.se/en/NKU-home/nordic-dog-breeds/sweden/jamthund/ https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/JAMTHUND-42.html
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