Hanoverian Scenthound vs Norwegian Elkhound
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Hanoverian Scenthound
Foundation Stock Service
Norwegian Elkhound
Hound Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Hanoverian Scenthound Overview
Hanoverian Scenthounds possess a robust, muscular build with a distinctive red-fawn coat and black mask. Their strong limbs and deep chest reflect their hunting heritage, while their balanced proportions create an elegant yet powerful appearance. These dogs exhibit remarkable stamina and tracking abilities, complemented by their keen sense of smell and intelligent expression.
Norwegian Elkhound Overview
Norwegian Elkhounds possess a robust, square-built frame with distinctive gray and black double coat. Their alert expression, wedge-shaped head, and tightly curled tail reflect their ancient Nordic heritage. Standing proudly with balanced proportions, these medium-sized dogs combine strength with agility. Their temperament blends confidence and friendliness with a dependable nature, making them excellent companions and watchdogs.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Hanoverian Scenthounds are less energetic than Norwegian Elkhounds, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Hanoverian Scenthounds require less grooming attention compared to Norwegian Elkhounds.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Hanoverian Scenthounds tend to be more reserved with strangers than Norwegian Elkhounds.
- Trainability: Norwegian Elkhounds may be slightly easier to train due to their Norwegian Elkhound's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Norwegian Elkhounds adapt better to apartment living, while Hanoverian Scenthounds typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Hanoverian Scenthound and Norwegian Elkhound, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Hanoverian Scenthound | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 10-14 years | 12-15 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Foundation Stock Service | Hound Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Hanoverian Scenthound | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 19-21 inches 48-53 cm | 20-21 inches 50-52 cm |
| Weight | 79-99 lbs 36-45 kg | 48-55 lbs 22-25 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Infrequent | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Hanoverian Scenthound | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Loyal, Independent, Calm | Friendly, Confident, Dependable |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Hanoverian Scenthound | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Hanoverian Scenthound Temperament
The Hanoverian Scenthound is known for being loyal, independent, calm, making them better suited for homes without young children. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. Their moderate energy level makes them adaptable to different lifestyles, though they still need regular exercise.
Norwegian Elkhound Temperament
The Norwegian Elkhound is characterized by being friendly, confident, dependable, which makes them better for households without small children. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They generally welcome strangers, making them sociable companions rather than protective guardians. Their moderate energy level makes them versatile companions that can adapt to your activity level, though regular exercise is still important.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Hanoverian Scenthound and Norwegian Elkhound, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Hanoverian Scenthound
Rating: 3/5
Norwegian Elkhound
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Hanoverian Scenthound
Rating: 5/5
Norwegian Elkhound
Rating: 3/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Hanoverian Scenthound
Rating: 3/5
Norwegian Elkhound
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Hanoverian Scenthound
Rating: 2/5
Norwegian Elkhound
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Hanoverian Scenthound
Rating: 2/5
Norwegian Elkhound
Rating: 3/5
Care & Maintenance
Hanoverian Scenthound Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Hanoverian Scenthounds require moderate daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Hanoverian Scenthounds require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial.
Norwegian Elkhound Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Norwegian Elkhounds need regular daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Norwegian Elkhounds require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Hanoverian Scenthound Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Bloat
- Eye Problems
- Ear Infections
- Heart Issues
Norwegian Elkhound Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- PRA
- Hypothyroidism
- Sebaceous Cysts
- Fanconi Syndrome
Pros & Cons
Hanoverian Scenthound
Pros
- Excellent tracking abilities
- Loyal companion
- Good with other dogs
- Low grooming needs
Cons
- Independent nature
- High exercise needs
- Not suited for city living
- Strong prey drive
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
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Hanoverian Scenthound and Norwegian Elkhound, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.