Norwegian Elkhound grooming: brushing, bathing and shedding
A practical grooming routine for the Norwegian Elkhound: coat care, baths, nails and ears.
Brush two or three times a week with a slicker brush and undercoat rake to remove loose hair and prevent mats behind the ears and on the trousers. Elkhounds shed steadily all year and blow their undercoat once or twice annually, when daily brushing is needed for two to three weeks. A thorough blow-dry after a bath can speed up the shed.
Do not shave the coat, which protects the dog from both cold and sun. The coat naturally sheds dirt, so baths every two to three months are usually enough. Trim nails every three to four weeks, clean the ears if they look dirty, and check between the toes for ice or burrs after winter walks.
Norwegian Elkhound grooming in numbers
This is an illustrative schedule based on our editorial grooming score, not a breed-specific care protocol. Coat condition, skin problems and professional advice may call for a different routine.
| Task | Planning example |
|---|---|
| Brushing | 2 to 3 times a week |
| Bathing | Every 6 to 8 weeks |
| Shedding | Heavy, with seasonal blowouts |
| Nail trim | Every 3 to 4 weeks |
| Ear check | Every 2 weeks |
| Teeth | Daily brushing; introduce gently and ask your vet if the mouth seems painful |
Coat
Thick, weather-resistant double coat with a smooth, harsh outer layer tipped in black and a soft, woolly pale undercoat.
Grooming needs
Shedding
Drooling