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Tuesday, 18 September 2012

Jamthund - Swedens bear dog

By Jerry Welsh


The Swedish Elkhound is a very old breed believed to have been around during the 1000s. There are speculations that this breed was developed from the dogs of the Stone Age people. Swedish Elkhounds were developed in Jamtland, a province in northwestern Sweden. During the later part of the last Ice Age, the Jamtland people have developed the Swedish Elkhound, a breed of dog with an outstanding stature. Thus, the dog also gained the name Jamthund.

The Swedish Elkhound is a spitz type dog breed that has the looks of a wolf. Smooth and close lying coat that ranges from light to dark colors cover the rectangular shaped body. This thick double coat is made more impressive by cream or light gray markings on the cheeks, sides of muzzle, chest, belly and legs. A tightly curled scimitar shaped tail is another feature that gives this breed an impressive appearance

As the name suggests, the breed was primarily used to hunt elk. The Swedish Elkhound is acknowledged as an energetic hunter that possesses remarkable strength and courage. This breed is meant to be a working dog. The breeding was aimed at creating a taller and bigger dog with a strong constitution . The dog has to have remarkable ability to adapt to the densely forested areas, to have the ability to climb steep rocky ledges and to easily negotiate deep snow when trailing a prey. The Swedish Elkhiound was acclaimed for being an outstanding hunter not only of elks but of other game like moose, lynx and bear. Jamthund, the other name of the breed means bear dog in the local dialect.

This is a versatile breed. The Swedish Elkhound is a dog that is first and foremost a hunter but the breed has adapted well to doing other duties. The Jamthund is acclaimed for being an outstanding utility dog, sled dog, guard dog and herding dog . Due to the bravery and intelligence, this dog was used as an army dog and was named as the national dog of the Swedish Marine. The Swedish Air Force has chosen this breed to be their official service canine as well.

Bold and aggressive when hunting, a Swedish Elkhound is known for its stoic demeanor. The dog possesses the stable and calm temperament, the affection and the friendly nature of an outstanding companion dog. A Swedish Elkhound is a breed that makes an ideal family pet as it has lots of love to give the family and noted to be gentle and kind with the children.




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