Black Norwegian Elkhounds are found in Scandinavia, but are not part of the Norwegian Elkhound breed recognized by the AKC. They are a newer type of Elkhound developed in the 19th century, and while the breeds are related, there are differences in appearance and temperament.
The AKC Breed Standard calls for the Norwegian Elkhound to be gray, any other color is considered a disqualification. Gray Norwegian Elkhound puppies are born black, and their coats lighten to the standard gray with black-tipped fur within a few weeks.
Though they're called Elkhound, they were used for hunting moose. The name seems misleading, until you consider the Nordic name—Norsk Elghund—translates to Norwegian Moose Dog. Elk actually refers to what Americans call a moose.
Though they were not bred to be short, some litters of Norwegian Elkhounds produce puppies with a genetic mutation called chondrodysplasia, or dwarfism. Some breeds like Dachshunds and Corgis are selectively bred for the long, low dog appearance but when the Elkhound shows this trait, it's considered a genetic abnormality. Because it is a hereditary trait, dogs who produce puppies with dwarfism, and affected puppies, should not be bred.
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