Jamthund

The jamthund originated in the Jamtland province of Sweden in the 1600s. The hunting dogs were used to pull sleds and hunt large game, such as moose, bears, elk, lynx and deer. The dog's powerful and agile stature, his courageous nature and his ability to traverse rough terrain in harsh climates made him a popular hunting dog. Until 1946, the jamthund, or Swedish elkhound, was shown alongside the smaller Norwegian elkhound. That year, the jamthund was recognized as its own breed. Although the United Kennel Club recognized the jamthund in 2006, the breed remains unrecognized by the American Kennel Club. Despite their popularity in their Swedish homeland, jamthunds are a rare find elsewhere.

The jamthund belongs to the spitz group of dogs, evidenced by his wolf-like appearance. The breed stands 20 to 26 inches tall and weighs 55 to 77 pounds. His pointed ears stand erect, and his tail forms a tight curl. The jamthund wears a thick, double coat. The soft undercoat is typically a creamy hue, and the topcoat is light and dark gray with very light gray or cream markings on the throat, cheeks, the underside of the tail and on the lower extremities.

Personality

The jamthund is a spitz breed of dog that is an eager participant on hunting and hiking adventures. Although rare in the United States, if you are fortunate enough to find one and have prior experience in dog training, the jamthund also makes a loyal and affectionate companion. Due to his roots of being part of a hunting pack, he gets along with other household dogs. He is good-natured with children, and he is a loyal and affectionate canine companion for the family. He is alert to his surroundings and makes an effective watchdog. The jamthund’s hunting instincts may pose a threat to backyard wildlife. The jamthund is intelligent, has a willful streak and bores easily, which can present a challenge when it comes to training and housebreaking. This is not an ideal breed for the first-time dog owner. An owner who has a firm manner and is an experienced handler will best accomplish successful training and establishment of dominance over the dog. The jamthund is active, inquisitive and loves an adventure. He requires daily physical exercise to prevent boredom, which can lead to unacceptable and destructive behavior. He enjoys playtime with his family, and he makes an excellent hiking and hunting companion.

Breed Characteristics

Jamthund Build Information

The jamthund belongs to the spitz group of dogs, evidenced by his wolf-like appearance. The breed stands 20 to 26 inches tall and weighs 55 to 77 pounds. His pointed ears stand erect, and his tail forms a tight curl. The jamthund wears a thick, double coat. The soft undercoat is typically a creamy hue, and the topcoat is light and dark gray with very light gray or cream markings on the throat, cheeks, the underside of the tail and on the lower extremities.

Behaviour and Personality

The jamthund is a spitz breed of dog that is an eager participant on hunting and hiking adventures. Although rare in the United States, if you are fortunate enough to find one and have prior experience in dog training, the jamthund also makes a loyal and affectionate companion. Due to his roots of being part of a hunting pack, he gets along with other household dogs. He is good-natured with children, and he is a loyal and affectionate canine companion for the family. He is alert to his surroundings and makes an effective watchdog. The jamthund’s hunting instincts may pose a threat to backyard wildlife. The jamthund is intelligent, has a willful streak and bores easily, which can present a challenge when it comes to training and housebreaking. This is not an ideal breed for the first-time dog owner. An owner who has a firm manner and is an experienced handler will best accomplish successful training and establishment of dominance over the dog. The jamthund is active, inquisitive and loves an adventure. He requires daily physical exercise to prevent boredom, which can lead to unacceptable and destructive behavior. He enjoys playtime with his family, and he makes an excellent hiking and hunting companion.

Appearance

Daily brushing is essential to prevent the thick, dense undercoat from tangling and matting. Brushing will also remove dead hairs and any debris collected during outdoor excursions. Bathing should only be done as needed. Bathing too frequently can dry out and minimize the weatherproof quality of the outer coat. Brushing his teeth as part of the daily grooming routine will help to maintain optimal dental and overall health.

Jamthund Common Health Conditions

Some health conditions that are known to afflict jamthunds include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, skin allergies, liver disease and hearing deficits. The breed is prone to becoming obese, which can increase the risks for diabetes, degenerative joint disease, heart disease and anesthetic complications.

Jamthund Pet Insurance

When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.

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Breed Talents and Facts

The jamthund originated in Sweden. The jamthund is also called a Swedish elkhound or a moosehound. The jamthund is a hardy, courageous and intelligent dog. He can be independent and stubborn, making him a challenge to train, but he is a loving and loyal family pet who wants to please his owner. The jamthund stands 20 to 26 inches tall and weighs 55 to 77 pounds. The jamthund has a moderate energy level. The jamthund requires extensive grooming. The average lifespan for a jamthund is 10 to 13 years.