The Norwegian name, Elghund, reflects the hunting heritage. These dogs were developed to hunt large game, such as bear and moose. The Elghund is also a good farm dog, and is trustworthy around farm animals, can be a good sled dog when necessary, and fill in as a herding dog.

Elghunds make good family companions, as they are good with children, and are intelligent watch dogs. The Elghund trains easily and can excel at obedience.

Like most of the members of the Spitz group, the breed is "primitive"; having been refined for only 140 years. While this is longer than the Siberian Husky or the Malamute, it is a short time in dog history.

The Elghund has a long and venerable lineage. Elghunds were the friends and companions of the Vikings on their numerous forays in northern Europe, and traveled across the sea as far as Nova Scotia.

Because the Elghund became a prominent hunting companion, it had to be energetic, bold, and intimidate through apparent aggression. Elghunds had to track game for many miles, and be bold enough to stand up to moose and bear. The most successful Elghunds were agile and smart. It was these ancestors that passed on the high intelligence that makes these dogs easy to train today.

Elghunds are still members of the Spitz group, and have the Spitz independence. They will obediently carry out a command, but not necessarily twice in a row. An Elghund gets bored by too much repetition.

The Elghund is still close to nature, and possesses the genetic behaviors passed down from a not-so-distant time when these dogs were expected to take care of their own needs far more than at any time in recent history. The Elghund must be kept in a securely fenced yard, or it will roam and possibly hunt. These dogs have a healthy curiosity, which is best exercised at the end of a leash when taking long walks with an owner who loves outdoor activities with an appreciative companion.

Obedience training is recommended, as the new owner will come to know what to expect of the Elghund, and the dog will benefit enormously from the socialization with other dogs. Elghunds naturally love people, but may require careful handling around new dogs until taught and socialized to being with them.

As the Elghund is "independent minded", it may be necessary to provide varied stimulation during training. Skipping to the next lesson, before repeating a lesson, is often a good strategy.

Elghunds make faithful and loving friends. The Elghund requires comparatively little physical care. Like other Spitz dogs, the Elghund has an efficient metabolism, and it is necessary to feed one far less than it might eat to avoid obesity.

The Elghund coat is an "easy care" coat. Bathing is only necessary a few times a year, and regular brushing easily cleans the coat of any dirt or debris picked up during regular exercise.