Norwegian Elkhound Feeding Guide
How much to feed your Norwegian Elkhound — daily calories, portion sizes, and feeding schedule
Originally bred in Norway, the Norwegian Elkhound has become one of the world's most recognizable medium breeds, sitting at #83 in AKC popularity. A bold, Viking-era hunter wrapped in a plush silver coat who combines independence with unwavering loyalty to their family. The Norwegian Elkhound is a member of the Hound Group — dogs originally developed to track game using their exceptional sense of smell. Their feeding plan should account for their high energy output on tracking days. An adult Norwegian Elkhound needs between 1164 and 1289 calories per day, though this varies with age, weight, activity level, and individual metabolism.
An adult Norwegian Elkhound's daily food intake is typically 0.7–1.1 cups of high-quality kibble, fed in two meals. Weighs 48 to 55 pounds for males and slightly less for females; they should be compact and muscular, not lanky.. At 48–55 lbs with energy level 4/5, Generally robust and hardy, reflecting centuries of natural selection in harsh Scandinavian conditions..
Daily Calorie Needs for Norwegian Elkhound
Adult
1164-1289
kcal/day
Puppy (peak)
1138
kcal/day (6-9 mo)
Senior
847-938
kcal/day
Note: Feeding guidelines are estimates based on standard veterinary formulas. Every dog is different — consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.
Feeding Strategy for Norwegian Elkhounds
With an above-average energy level, the Norwegian Elkhound benefits from a feeding plan that balances calorie intake with their active lifestyle. Two measured meals per day totaling 3.1-3.4 cups of kibble provides steady energy without the blood sugar spikes of a single large meal. Choose a formula with at least 25% protein and moderate fat to support their daily activity.
Norwegian Elkhound Feeding Schedule
Morning (7-8 AM)
1.6-1.7 cups kibble
Evening (5-6 PM)
1.6-1.7 cups kibble
Split Meals
Portion Sizes by Food Type
Daily Portions for Norwegian Elkhound
Based on average adult weight and activity level
| Food Type | Daily Amount | Calories | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Kibble | 3.1-3.4 cups | 1164-1289 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~380 kcal per cup |
| Wet Food | 4.7-5.2 cans | 1164-1289 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~250 kcal per 13oz can |
| Raw Diet | 15-26 oz | 1164-1289 kcal | 2 meals/day | 2-3% of body weight |
- Amount
- 3.1-3.4 cups
- Calories
- 1164-1289 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~380 kcal per cup
- Amount
- 4.7-5.2 cans
- Calories
- 1164-1289 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~250 kcal per 13oz can
- Amount
- 15-26 oz
- Calories
- 1164-1289 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
2-3% of body weight
Exercise & Feeding for Norwegian Elkhounds
The Norwegian Elkhound requires significant daily exercise — typically 60-90 minutes of vigorous activity. On high-activity days (hiking, running, dog sports), increase their food by 10-20% to compensate for the extra calorie burn. On rest days, stick to the baseline portion. Never feed a large meal within 30 minutes of intense exercise; instead, offer a small snack 2 hours before activity and the main meal 1 hour after.
Joint Health & Nutrition
Joint health is a primary nutritional concern for Norwegian Elkhounds, which are predisposed to Hip Dysplasia. Diet plays a preventive and management role at every life stage. For puppies, controlled growth rate and proper calcium-phosphorus ratios protect developing joints. For adults, maintaining ideal body weight reduces mechanical stress on joints. Specific nutrients can slow cartilage degradation and reduce inflammation.
Recommended Joint Supplements
Coat & Skin Nutrition
The Norwegian Elkhound's Double Coat, Dense requires nutritional support from the inside out. Double-coated breeds undergo significant seasonal shedding (known as "blowing coat") in spring and fall, during which nutritional demands for skin and hair production increase. A diet deficient in essential fatty acids, biotin, or zinc will show in the coat quality within weeks — look for dullness, excessive shedding, or dry, flaky skin as early warning signs.
Key Nutrients for Coat Health
Thyroid Health & Diet
Hypothyroidism is a recognized concern in Norwegian Elkhounds, affecting metabolism, weight, coat quality, and energy level. A Norwegian Elkhound with untreated hypothyroidism may gain weight despite eating normal portions, develop a thin or dull coat, and become lethargic. If your Norwegian Elkhound shows these signs, a simple blood test can confirm the diagnosis. While thyroid medication (levothyroxine) is the primary treatment, dietary support matters: ensure adequate iodine and selenium in the diet, maintain strict portion control to prevent weight gain, and consider a weight-management formula if your dog is on thyroid medication but still struggling with weight.
Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
Not adjusting portions for activity level
An active Norwegian Elkhound that runs for 2 hours burns significantly more than one that had a lazy day. Track activity and adjust portions accordingly — up to 20% more on high-activity days, 10% less on rest days.
Skipping joint supplements until problems appear
For breeds predisposed to joint issues, preventive supplementation with glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids can help protect cartilage before damage occurs. Starting these supplements early — even at 1-2 years old — is more effective than waiting for symptoms.
Blaming laziness for weight gain without checking thyroid
Norwegian Elkhounds are predisposed to hypothyroidism, which slows metabolism and causes weight gain even on normal portions. If your Norwegian Elkhound is gaining weight despite measured feeding, ask your vet for a thyroid panel before simply cutting food.
Switching foods abruptly without a transition period
Any diet change — brand, flavor, or formula — should happen gradually over 7-10 days. Mix increasing amounts of the new food with decreasing amounts of the old. Abrupt switches cause digestive upset (diarrhea, vomiting, gas) in most dogs, Norwegian Elkhounds included.
Not accounting for treats in the daily calorie budget
Treats should never exceed 10% of your Norwegian Elkhound's daily calorie intake. A single dental chew can contain 70-90 calories — significant for a dog that only needs 773 calories per day. Subtract treat calories from meal portions.
Norwegian Elkhound-Specific Feeding Tips
Tip 1
Tip 2
Tip 3
Tip 4
Tip 5
Breed-Specific Nutritional Needs
Based on health conditions common in Norwegian Elkhounds, consider these nutritional adjustments:
Glucosamine & Chondroitin
Add a joint supplement with glucosamine (500-1000mg) and chondroitin. Consider foods with added omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA) to reduce inflammation.
Antioxidants
Include foods rich in antioxidants (vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, lutein). Blueberries and carrots make excellent treats.
Iodine & Selenium
Ensure adequate iodine and selenium in the diet. Weight management is important as hypothyroidism can cause weight gain.
Norwegian Elkhound Ideal Weight
To determine if your Norwegian Elkhound is at a healthy weight (48–55 lbs target): Rib test: You should be able to feel the ribs without pressing hard, with a thin layer of fat covering them. Waist check: Viewed from above, there should be a visible waist behind the ribs. Tuck-up: From the side, the abdomen should tuck up behind the rib cage. Their double coat, dense coat can mask weight gain, so hands-on assessment is essential.
Male Norwegian Elkhound
48-55 lbs
22-25 kg
Female Norwegian Elkhound
40-48 lbs
18-22 kg
Related Guides
Feeding Guides for Similar Breeds
Frequently Asked Questions
Feeding Guidelines Disclaimer
The feeding recommendations on DosageGuide.com are estimates based on standard veterinary nutrition formulas (RER = 70 × weight^0.75) and general guidelines from AAFCO and veterinary nutrition resources.
Every dog is unique. Actual calorie needs vary based on breed, metabolism, activity level, health conditions, spay/neuter status, and the specific food brand you use. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice.
These guides are for general reference and do not replace professional veterinary guidance. Adjust portions based on your dog's body condition score and weight trends.