German Shorthaired Pointer vs Norwegian Elkhound
Breed Compatibility
79% Compatible
Energy Level
German Shorthaired Pointer: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Norwegian Elkhound: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
German Shorthaired Pointer: Eager to Please1.0
Norwegian Elkhound: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
German Shorthaired Pointer: Weekly Brushing0.4
Norwegian Elkhound: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
German Shorthaired Pointer5/5
Norwegian Elkhound3/5
Good with Other Dogs
German Shorthaired Pointer4/5
Norwegian Elkhound3/5
Good with Strangers
German Shorthaired Pointer4/5
Norwegian Elkhound4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
German Shorthaired Pointer
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clotting
Entropion: Eyelid rolls inward issue
Bloat: Gastric torsion condition
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder risk
Lymphedema: Tissue swelling concern
Norwegian Elkhound
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive eye condition
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Sebaceous Cysts: Skin growths
Fanconi Syndrome: Kidney disorder
Glaucoma: Eye pressure condition
Pros & Cons Comparison
German Shorthaired Pointer
Pros
Excellent hunting companion
Highly trainable
Versatile athlete
Great family dog
Cons
High exercise needs
Strong prey drive
Requires consistent training
May be too energetic for some
Norwegian Elkhound
Pros
Loyal and dependable
Good with families
Excellent watchdog
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
Heavy shedding
Strong hunting instincts
Can be stubborn
Requires regular exercise
German Shorthaired Pointer Fun Fact
Can maintain speeds of up to 35 mph while running and are excellent swimmers due to their webbed feet.
Norwegian Elkhound Fun Fact
Norwegian Elkhounds can track moose for several days through deep snow, earning them the nickname 'gray ghost of the North.'
Heritage & Purpose
German Shorthaired Pointer
Origin:
Developed in Germany during the 1800s as a versatile hunting companion, excelling in both pointing and retrieving game birds across varied terrain types.
Norwegian Elkhound
Origin:
Nordic hunters relied on these dogs during the Viking Age to track and hunt moose and other large game across Scandinavia's challenging terrain. Their endurance and tracking abilities proved invaluable.
Special Considerations
German Shorthaired Pointer
Needs extensive daily exercise, regular grooming despite short coat, and monitoring for breed-specific health issues like hip dysplasia.
Norwegian Elkhound
Regular brushing during shedding seasons, consistent exercise routine, and early socialization are essential. Monitor weight and provide mental stimulation through tracking activities.