Norwegian Elkhound vs Himalayan Mastiff - Breed Comparison

Norwegian Elkhound vs Himalayan Mastiff - Breed ComparisonNorwegian Elkhound is originated from Norway but Himalayan Mastiff is originated from India. Norwegian Elkhound may grow 16 cm / 6 inches shorter than Himalayan Mastiff. Norwegian Elkhound may weigh 53 kg / 116 pounds lesser than Himalayan Mastiff. Both Norwegian Elkhound and Himalayan Mastiff has same life span. Both Norwegian Elkhound and Himalayan Mastiff has same litter size. Both Norwegian Elkhound and Himalayan Mastiff requires Moderate maintenance.

History

norwegian elkhound - historyThe Norwegian Elkhound is an ancient spitz-type dog breed hailing from Norway and with a history that goes back thousands of years.

These dogs have been used as hunting dogs and have been able to bring down game such as Elk, bears, wolves, badgers and reindeer. They have also been used to guard livestock.

The Norwegian Elkhound was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1913.

himalayan mastiff - historyThe Himalayan Mastiff or Tibetan Mastiff is an ancient breed. Bred to be guardians of the flock, they could take care of leopards and wolves or anything else that tied to hurt the flock. The Himalaya Mastiff is found in the Himalayan area of Tibet. They are descendants of the Tibetan dogs that developed almost any Mastiff or Molosser on earth. They may have been in the mountains since the early 1100 BC. and have been fairly isolated. It was in this isolation that the Himalayan Mastiff developed.

Their function at that time was mostly to guard property. In some circumstances an entire village is guarded by one dog. It was also during this period that the breed was taught to be aggressive by tying them up as puppies. They guarded families while the men moved the village flock higher up in the mountains. They stayed in isolation until the mid-1800’s when the Queen of England was given a Himalayan Mastiff. For thousands of years, this dog was a nomad.

Soon the breed was being exported to England. A standard was developed, and the British began to breed them. Next, they were exported to Nepal, Afghanistan, India and the United States. They are rare in Tibet these days but more popular than ever in England and the United States. The first American Himalaya Tibetan Mastiff Association came into being in 1974 and in 2006 it was recognized by the AKC.

Today in the West, the Himalayan is a domesticated, family dog. It hardly fits in an apartment of course. These new western Himalayan Mastiffs are more easy- going than the Tibetan ones, but they are still wary of strangers and somewhat aloof. They are also still very protective and nocturnal. They are smart, independent and stubborn. They are not easy to train but socialization and obedience training is essential.

A study done in 2011 showed that it is very likely that many large breed dogs were descended from this Mastiff. This includes the St. Bernard, the Rottweiler, Bernese Mountain Dog and the Great Pyrenees. Later studies showed that the Mastiff’s ability to survive in the rare air of the Himalayans was due to interbreeding with Tibetan wolves in ancient, prehistoric times. Now they are competing in the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

Description

norwegian elkhound puppy - descriptionThe Norwegian Elkhound is a medium to large sized dog standing at roughly 45 to 55cm in height and weighing anything fro 18 to 25 kilogams.

People love this dog because of his beautiful wolf-like face and bright eyes. The head is broad and wedge-shaped, the eyes dark brown, the ears stand erect and the bush tail curls over the dog's back.

The double coat has different shades of gray and silver with cream and white shades on the undercoat.

He is a moderate shedder with some seasonal shedding.

Temperament:

The Norwegian Elkhound is a high energy dog who loves to be busy and he also makes a loving and loyal companion towards his human family. He tends to be a little bit reserved around strangers.

He is an independent dog so so its a good idea to have him trained and socialized so that he is always obedient. He is an intelligent dog so you won’t battle to teach him.

He gets on well with children in the home. He however, can be a little bit aggressive with other dogs, but not if he was brought up with them as a puppy. Adventurous and active, he just loves spending time outdoors. It's why he is best suited to life in the countryside as opposed to the city and also prefers cooler climates.

himalayan mastiff puppy - descriptionThe Himalayan Mastiff is a giant, massive dog longer than it is tall. The breed has a heavy, broad head and square muzzle. They have black noses, a level bite and almond shaped, slanted, deep set eyes. They are brown, and the ears hang close to the head. They are heavy, muscular and sturdy. They have a feathered tail curving over their back. With a heavy, thick double coat and mane they resemble a lion at times. The coat can be brown, black, and gray-blue with gold or tan markings. These are impressive and noble dogs, athletic, with cat like feet. They are agile and light on their feet.

According to some breeders there are two different kinds or types of Himalayan Mastiff. These are the Tsang-khyi or the monastery mastiff type and the Do-khyi or the nomad mastiff type. The monastery is a heavier, taller dog who face is very wrinkled while the nomad is a leaner dog with less facial wrinkles. In any litter there can be both kinds. The kind of work that was given to each dog was dependent on their type. The Monastery kind is given stationary jobs and the nomad kind got the active jobs.

Characteristics

norwegian elkhound dog - characteristicsYour Norwegian Elkhound makes an awesome pet. He is full of the joys of living and wants to be an active member of his human family.

He is active and always ready for some fun and games. He is also intelligent and will make an even better pet when he has been trained and socialized.

Those who have owned one of these beautiful dogs will always say how they adore this beautiful, smart, loving canine friend of theirs.

Children friendliness

himalayan mastiff dog - characteristicsyes, they are if properly socialized.

Special talents

Their athletic ability

Adaptability

They cannot live in an apartment. They need a large yard.

Learning ability

They are intelligent, but difficult to train. They are stubborn and independent.

Health Problems

norwegian elkhound puppies - health problemsYour beautiful Norwegian Elkhound can reach 15 years of age if you look after him well and he manages to avoid some of the common dog diseases there are.

There are some dog illnesses that are good to be aware of -

Glaucoma:

This is an eye condition where there is pressure that builds up in the eye. There is a problem with the drainage of fluid in the eye and this is what causes the pressure and there can be damage to the optic nerve.

Pyotraumatic Dermatitis:

This is a skin condition that causes inflammation and is often seen in dogs like the Norwegian Elkhound who have thick coats.

Hip Dysplasia:

A common disease seen in many dog breeds, young and old, and which is a malfunction of the hip joints, causing problems with your dog’s mobility.

himalayan mastiff puppies - health problemsBeing a large breed of canine, the Himalayan Mastiff has some of the typical health issues of large dogs. However, they also face a serious genetic disorder as well.

Canine Inherited Demyelinative Neuropathy (CIDN) – a fatal disorder seen in puppies by seven weeks of age. Puppies die before they are 5 months old.

  • Hip dysplasia – can cause lameness and arthritis.
  • Thyroid Issues – hypothyroidism or low thyroid test results.
  • Ear Infections – clean ears regularly to avoid these.

Caring The Pet

norwegian elkhound dogs - caringAs a spitz type dog, the Norwegian Elkhound is an energetic dog who will need lots of physical activity.

He has a very thick coat so make sure he doesn’t overheat during exercise as he has been used to living in wintry climates.

Brush and Check for Ticks:

Your pet will shed some of that thick hair so he will need to be brushed at least twice a week to keep the coat in tip top condition. At the same time check him over for ticks and fleas. How often you see ticks on your dog will depend on where you live. These parasites attach to your dog and feed on his blood.They are capable of causing many diseases in your pet, one of which is Lyme disease, a disease which can lead to arthritis and swelling with your dog’s joints.

The best way to prevent any disease from weakening your pet is to get him to the vet as soon as possible. A good way to prevent ticks is to speak to your vet about tick control products.

Diet:

Make sure he has the best food to ensure health and happiness. Keep his meals simple – no exotic, spicy foods that can upset his stomach.

A high quality kibble brand for energetic dogs is a wise choice and some tasty home-made food added in occasionally. This can be boiled chicken, brown rice and vegetables. Never leave him without a constant supply of fresh, cool water.

Feeding the puppy

himalayan mastiff dogs - caringThis breed will eat less than you think they should but don’t overfeed. Puppies need a solid dry food for large dogs. You can free feed 1 cup three times per day.

Feeding the adult

For dogs over a year old you can free feed anywhere from two to four cups of dry food per day. Unlike many other breeds, the Himalaya Mastiff will only eat when hungry and they may not eat more than once a day. They will not overeat. The males might not eat at all when females are in season if they are around them.

Points for Good Health

They have good strength and athletic ability.

Games and Exercises

The Himalayan Mastiff needs regular, routine walks. It is important during these walks that the human leads the way, or the dog heals. Do not overwork a young Himalayan Mastiff. They need work related jobs like structured play time, walking the boundary of their territory, playing frisbee or catch. They work and play in short bursts then rest.

Basic Information

Group:
Hound dog
Working dog
Origin:
Norway
India
Height Male:
45 - 55 cm
17 - 22 inches
61 - 71 cm
24 - 28 inches
Height Female:
45 - 55 cm
17 - 22 inches
59 - 70 cm
23 - 28 inches
Weight Male:
18 - 25 kg
39 - 56 pounds
64 - 78 kg
141 - 172 pounds
Weight Female:
18 - 25 kg
39 - 56 pounds
61 - 75 kg
134 - 166 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
10 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 10
5 - 10
Size:
Medium dog
Large dog
Other Names:
Norsk Elghund, Gray Norwegian Elkhound, Elk Dog, Norwegian Moose Dog
Do-Khyi Tsang-khyi Tibetan Mastiff
Colors Available:
silver, white, Grey, cream
brown, sable with white markings, blue, red, black, gray, gold
Coat:
Short to medium length, dense
double coated, with a heavy, wooly undercoat and coarse guard hair.
Shedding:
Moderate, Seasonal
Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Courageous, Independent, Intelligent, Loyal, Protective
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
No

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Pharaoh Hound vs Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  2. Redbone Coonhound vs Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  3. Norwegian Elkhound vs Basset Hound - Breed Comparison
  4. Norwegian Elkhound vs Basenji - Breed Comparison
  5. Norwegian Elkhound vs Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla - Breed Comparison
  6. Norwegian Elkhound vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  7. Norwegian Elkhound vs Hungarian Vizsla - Breed Comparison
  8. Norwegian Elkhound vs Bluetick Coonhound - Breed Comparison
  9. Norwegian Elkhound vs Coonhound - Breed Comparison
  10. Norwegian Elkhound vs Bavarian Mountain Hound - Breed Comparison
  11. Norwegian Elkhound vs Basset Fauve de Bretagne - Breed Comparison
  12. Norwegian Elkhound vs Beagle-Harrier - Breed Comparison
  13. Norwegian Elkhound vs English Coonhound - Breed Comparison
  14. Norwegian Elkhound vs Anglo-Francais de Petite Venerie - Breed Comparison
  15. Norwegian Elkhound vs Alpine Dachsbracke - Breed Comparison
  16. Norwegian Elkhound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  17. Norwegian Elkhound vs Dunker - Breed Comparison
  18. Norwegian Elkhound vs Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen - Breed Comparison
  19. Norwegian Elkhound vs Chippiparai - Breed Comparison
  20. Norwegian Elkhound vs English Foxhound - Breed Comparison
  21. Norwegian Elkhound vs Estonian Hound - Breed Comparison
  22. Norwegian Elkhound vs Grand Griffon Vendeen - Breed Comparison
  23. Norwegian Elkhound vs Hamiltonstovare - Breed Comparison
  24. Norwegian Elkhound vs Beago - Breed Comparison
  25. Norwegian Elkhound vs Kanni - Breed Comparison
  26. Samoyed vs Himalayan Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  27. Presa Canario vs Himalayan Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  28. Labrador Husky vs Himalayan Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  29. Mackenzie River Husky vs Himalayan Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  30. Pyredoodle vs Himalayan Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  31. Lurcher vs Himalayan Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  32. Maremma Sheepdog vs Himalayan Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  33. Sarplaninac vs Himalayan Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  34. Himalayan Mastiff vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  35. Himalayan Mastiff vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Himalayan Mastiff vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Himalayan Mastiff vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  38. Himalayan Mastiff vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  39. Himalayan Mastiff vs Alaskan Malamute - Breed Comparison
  40. Himalayan Mastiff vs Bullmastiff - Breed Comparison
  41. Himalayan Mastiff vs Great Pyrenees - Breed Comparison
  42. Himalayan Mastiff vs Boerboel - Breed Comparison
  43. Himalayan Mastiff vs Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  44. Himalayan Mastiff vs Argentine Dogo - Breed Comparison
  45. Himalayan Mastiff vs Giant Schnauzer - Breed Comparison
  46. Himalayan Mastiff vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  47. Himalayan Mastiff vs Belgian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  48. Himalayan Mastiff vs Goldador - Breed Comparison
  49. Himalayan Mastiff vs Bandog - Breed Comparison
  50. Himalayan Mastiff vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds