A very solid dog for a hound, but he needs to be able to cope with his traditional prey, the elk. A Spitz type with prick ears and curly tail, he is a friendly dog, but his loud voice acts as a deterrent to unwanted visitors.

The breed stems from Norway. Skeletons have been found dating back to the Stone Age that are not unlike the dog of today.

Officially described as grey of various shades, he is far from being a dull-looking dog, having black tips to his longer outer coat as well as a distinctive shoulder stripe running from the withers. From the grooming angle, the coat is easy to maintain in good shape and can become thoroughly dirty on a country ramble without causing the house-proud oo much anxiety.

He enjoys all the exercise offered by an active family, but will be content to live a less strenuous life if his owners are less energetic. He must not be allowed to get too lazy, however, as he is capable, as are most hounds, of putting on weight to excess.