Jämthund
Also known as: Swedish Elkhound Jämptlanninpystykorva
From Sweden comes the Jämthund. The Jämthund comes from Sweden, and has a long, hard and close lying double coat coat. Individual Jämthunds vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- Sweden
- Height
- Males
- Coat
- Long, hard and close lying double coat
- Colour
- Grey with light grey or cream muzzle, underside and legs
- Other names
- Swedish Elkhound Jämptlanninpystykorva
About the Jämthund
From Sweden comes the Jämthund. jämthund is a medium-sized dog breed. Known for its distinctive appearance and hunting abilities.
Overview
The Jämthund , also called the Swedish Elkhound , is a breed of dog of the Spitz type that is found in Northern Europe . The Jämthund is eponymous with Jämtland , a province in the middle of Sweden .
History
The Jämthund is one of a number of breeds of spitz -type hunting dogs that have been known throughout Scandinavia for centuries. Historically these dogs have been used to hunt a wide variety of game including bear , elk , wolf and lynx . The Jämthund received official recognition as a breed in 1946, due to intensive work by Aksel Lindström and others. Before that, both it and the Norwegian Elkhound were seen as the same breed. They are both used for hunting large game, such as moose and bear.
Lineage
The breed falls under the mitochondrial DNA sub- clade referred to as d1 that is only found in northern Scandinavia. It is the result of a male dog-female wolf hybridization that occurred post-domestication. Subclade d1 that is thought to have originated "no more than 480–3,000 years ago" and it includes all Sámi -related breeds: Finnish Lapphund , Swedish Lapphund , Lapponian Herder , Swedish Elkhound, Norwegian Elkhound , Black Norwegian Elkhound and Hällefors Elkhound . The maternal wolf sequence that contributed to these breeds has not been matched across Eurasia.
Appearance
The dog should have a loosely curled tail that hangs on the back and is not too thin or too tightly curled; when relaxed the tail should hang straight down. This breed has erect ears with a wide space in between them, a medium to long muzzle, and a double coat of various shades of agouti . The eyes are brown. The size of the male is usually 57–65 centimetres (22–26 in) , weighing 30–35 kilograms (66–77 lb) . Females are usually between 52–60 centimetres (20–24 in) , weighing 25–30 kilograms (55–66 lb) . The Jämthund should be distinguished from the Norwegian Elkhound . The Norwegian Elkhound is much shorter and stockier than the Jämthund, and its tail shape is very different. It also has a black mask on the muzzle, whereas the Jämthund has a white muzzle, white cheeks and typical wolf markings.
Temperament
Although calm and affectionate with its family, the Jämthund can be dominant with other dogs and has a strong prey drive. A truly all-around canine, it can go from a hunting trip and back to the family hearth with great aplomb. It takes things in stride and does not get ruffled easily, making it a steady partner in the field or at home. The Jämthund is a happy learner who loves to please its owner.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Jämthund?
The Jämthund is a medium-sized dog with a sturdy build, typically weighing between 35-50 kg. They have a thick double coat, with a harsh outer coat and a soft undercoat. Their eyes are dark brown, and their ears are triangular and erect. They are a Spitz-type breed, known for their wolf-like appearance and hunting ability.
Is the Jämthund a good family dog?
The Jämthund is a loyal and protective breed, but they can be wary of strangers. With proper socialization, they can make good family pets, especially for active families who can provide regular exercise and mental stimulation. However, they may not be suitable for very young children due to their strong prey drive.
What health problems do Jämthunds have?
As a Spitz-type breed, Jämthunds are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. They can also be susceptible to certain allergies and skin conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing can help identify potential issues early on.
How much does a Jämthund puppy cost?
The cost of a Jämthund puppy can vary depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, and bloodline. On average, a Jämthund puppy can cost between $800-$1,500. However, prices can range from $500-$3,000 or more. It's essential to research reputable breeders and consider the long-term costs of owning a dog.
Where do Jämthunds come from?
The Jämthund comes from Sweden. The breed developed there before spreading to dog fanciers worldwide.
Related breeds
Breed information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Jämthund, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.