Jamthund – Swedens Bear Dog
The Swedish Elkhound is a very old breed believed to have been around during the 1000s. The companion dogs of the Stone Age people are speculated to be the ancestors of this breed. Jamtland, a province in the northwestern part of Sweden is the place of origin of this breed. This breed of magnificent conformation has been kept by people in Jamtland at the end of the last ice age. Thus, the dog also gained the name Jamthund.
A Swedish Elkhound is a spitz type dog noted to have a wolf-like appearance. 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 tail in the shape of a scimitar add to the already striking appearance of the dog
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 objective is to create not only a tall and big dog but one that is healthy as well . The dog has to adapt well to the rigors of hunting in heavily forested areas and to be able to scale rocky ledges and traverse deep snow in pursuit of prey. Indeed, the Swedish Elkhound, the breed that was developed is a remarkable hunter of elk, moose, lynx, bear and other game. The name Jamthund in fact is a local dialect that means bear dog.
The Swedish Elkhound 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 apart from being a utility dog has become a herding dog, a guard dog and a sled dog as well . Brave and intelligent, the dog was utilized as an army dog and was given the honor of being the national dog of the Swedish Marine. The Swedish Air Force has chosen this breed to be their official service canine as well.
A Swedish Elkhound is a bold and aggressive hunter but the dog is noted to have a stoic demeanor. The calm and stable temperament, the friendly nature and the strong attachment the dog forms for its people are the most wanted qualities in a 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.
