Norwegian Elkhound — Grooming Guide

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Norwegian Elkhound — Grooming Guide

How Often to Groom

  • Brushing: 3–4 times per week
  • Nail trimming: Every 2–3 weeks
  • Ear cleaning: Weekly
  • Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks
  • Heavy shedding seasons: Daily brushing

About the Norwegian Elkhound

The Norwegian Elkhound has a thick, weather‑resistant double coat designed for harsh Nordic climates. They shed year‑round and blow coat heavily twice a year. Their coat should NEVER be shaved — it protects them from heat, cold, and sunburn.

Before You Start

Your Elkhound Bathing Package includes everything needed to bathe this breed safely, including a Shampoo Dilution Bottle and a Moisturizing Shampoo for dense double coats. Your Grooming Package includes the tools needed for brushing, de‑shedding, drying, and maintaining their thick coat.

Norwegian Elkhound Bathing Package

Shop the recommended bathing package here:
Moisturizing Bathing Package

  • Moisturizing Shampoo
  • Shampoo Dilution Bottle
  • Shammy Towel
  • Microfiber Towel

Norwegian Elkhound Grooming Package

Shop the recommended grooming package here:
Moisturizing Grooming Package

  • Slicker Brush
  • Undercoat Rake
  • Shedding Comb
  • Metal Comb
  • Thinning Shears
  • Conditioning Spray (trial size)

Norwegian Elkhound Care Package

Shop the full care package here:
Care Package

  • Ear Cleaner
  • Eye Wipes
  • Paw Balm
  • Nail Clippers

Additional Grooming Tools

  • High‑Velocity Dryer (HV Dryer)
  • Grooming Arm
  • Extra Shammy Towel
  • Extra Microfiber Towel

Step‑By‑Step Grooming Guide

1. Brush the Coat
Start with an undercoat rake to remove loose undercoat. Follow with a slicker brush to smooth the topcoat. Use a metal comb to check for tangles behind the ears, in the pants, and around the neck.

2. Clean the Ears
Use ear cleaner and cotton to wipe the outer ear weekly.

3. Trim the Nails
Trim every 2–3 weeks. Elkhounds often have strong, fast‑growing nails.

4. Bathe the Norwegian Elkhound
Bathe every 6–8 weeks using diluted moisturizing shampoo. Rinse thoroughly — their dense coat holds soap easily.

5. Dry the Coat
Use a shammy towel, then a microfiber towel. Finish with an HV dryer to remove loose undercoat and prevent matting.

6. Tidy the Feet & Feathering
Use thinning shears to neaten the feet, legs, and feathering. Avoid over‑trimming — the coat should look natural.

7. Apply Leave‑In Conditioner
Work a small amount through the coat to reduce dryness and add shine.

Double Coat Notes

Never shave a Norwegian Elkhound. Their double coat regulates temperature and protects their skin from sunburn and injury.

Final Thoughts

Norwegian Elkhounds require regular brushing to stay mat‑free and comfortable. A consistent routine keeps their coat healthy and reduces shedding.

But these tools pay for themselves faster than you think.

A typical groom costs $70–$120. If you go every 4–6 weeks, the tools usually pay for themselves in 3–5 grooms.

But the money isn't even the biggest part.

  • You know exactly how your dog is being treated.
  • No contamination from other dogs.
  • No chance of your dog being drugged without your knowledge.
  • No rough handling behind closed doors.
  • No stress from loud salons or unfamiliar animals.
  • Your dog stays in the place they feel safest — home.

Your dog trusts you more than anyone. Grooming them yourself honors that trust.

FAQ

How often should a Norwegian Elkhound be groomed?
Brush 3–4 times per week; daily during shedding season.

Should you shave a Norwegian Elkhound?
No. Their double coat protects them from heat and cold.

How do you reduce shedding?
Undercoat raking, HV drying, and regular brushing.

How often should you bathe them?
Every 6–8 weeks.

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