Live Life Team
Also called the Swedish Elkhound, this is a Spitz type breed native to Jamtland, Sweden. A wolf-like breed of great antiquity, it was once known as the Bear Dog. Originally bred to hunt elk and pull sledges, it was also used to hunt bear and lynx. It is the national dog of Sweden, and the official mascot of the Swedish Marines.
The Jamthund was a domesticated breed in the last ice age. However, it did not achieve breed recognition until 1945, before which it was mistakenly thought to be a variety of HYPERLINK “http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norwegian_Elkhound” o “Norwegian Elkhound”Norwegian Elkhound. However, it is now known to be a separate breed, unique to the Jamtland region of Sweden.
The dog is a larger than average Spitz breed, rectangular without being overly long in the back. Dogs are somewhat larger than bitches. The average height for a dog is 24 inches (61 cm) and for a bitch 22 inches (56 cm), measured to the withers. The dog is strong, but has a lighter build than the average Spitz.
The thick, double coat is dense and close lying, but not flat. It is longer on the chest, neck and legs. The colour is usually grey and white.
The HYPERLINK “http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J%C3%A4mthund” Jamthund has the Spitz tail, although it is not as tightly curled as some breeds. It has a long neck and head, which gives it a somewhat wolf-like look. However, it is a gentle, docile, loyal breed well suited to families. It is still much in demand as a sledge dog.
