Jämthund

Other names : Swedish Elkhound, Swedish Moosehound

The Jamthund is named after a small province in central Sweden. It was developed by mixing domesticated hunting dogs with wild wolves, which explains the breed’s wolf-like appearance. Used as a sled dog, a watchdog, and a hunting companion, the Jamthund is tough, brave, and very loyal. But while they’re very calm and gentle around humans, the Jamthund can become aggressive and dominant towards other dogs. Today, the Jamthund is still used as a hunting dog. They track elk, lynx, and even bears.

Checked by animal care professional

Comment •

Life expectancy	The Jämthund has a life expectancy of between 12 and 14 years
Temperament	High prey drive
Size	Large
Adult size	Female Between 20 and 24 in Male Between 22 and 26 in
Adult weight	Female Between 55 and 66 lb Male Between 55 and 66 lb
Coat colour	Blue
Type of coat	Long
Eye colour	Brown
Purchase price	The Jämthund costs between £1000 and £1500

Good to know

Often referred to as stubborn, this strong-minded dog needs a confident and competent handler.

Very gentle and soft around the family, but can quickly become aggressive if it perceives any threats to the pack. Early socialisation is crucial.

Shouldn’t be left alone with other pets or small animals.

More details about the Jämthund

Jämthund: Origins and history

Although the Jamthund is a very ancient breed, it wasn’t recognised by a kennel club until 1946. This is because the Jamthund and the smaller Norwegian Elkhound were considered as the same breed. The two dogs have a striking similarity, so it’s understandable how many experts believed that the Jamthund was just a larger version of the Elkhound. It’s named after a central Swedish province called Jamtland and locals refer to this big, powerful breed as the “bear dog.” The Jamthund is one of the few working dog breeds that are brave enough to track and hunt bears. The Jamthund is a social and friendly dog, but many experts recommend against keeping them as just pets. The breed has a natural work ethic and will quickly grow bored of domestic life.

Physical characteristics of the Jämthund

Large spitz breed. Strong, proud stature. Alert expression. A wolf-like appearance.

FCI classification of the Jämthund

Group 5 - Spitz and primitive types
Section 2 : Nordic Hunting Dogs

Jämthund: Characteristics

Not very affectionate

This big dog is a real softy at heart. They love being around their favourite people and really enjoy human contact.

Moderately playful

A naturally playful breed. Enjoys high energy games that can also provide a mental challenge.

More or less calm

Once properly exercised, the Jamthund becomes surprisingly calm. In fact, they’re actually quite docile, especially during the late evening.

Moderate intelligence

A very intelligent dog with a strong and independent mind. Enjoys being mentally challenged.

High prey drive

This dog was bred to hunt elk, moose, and bears. Has a very high prey drive. A fearless and bold-hearted dog.

Fearful of strangers

A confident and self-assured dog. Will never display any nervous behaviour around strangers.

Very independent

Independent and strong-willed. Likes the feeling of being in charge. Tends to assert its personality over other dogs.

Jämthund: Behaviour

Tolerates being left alone

The Jamthund is happiest when working alongside its handlers. This dog thrives of a close and lasting relationship with a master. Not suited to solitude.

Not very easy to train

Can be a little stubborn. Puppies can struggle to focus during early years training. However, these dogs are willing learners with a desire to please.

Tends to be very vocal

Generally quiet. Relaxed and calm around the home. Has a tendency to bark when they come into contact with other dogs. This is their way of saying “I’m the boss!”

Has a tendency to run away

Very unlikely to run away. Prefers to stay close to its master.

Can be destructive

This dog is prone to separation anxiety, which can lead to destructive behaviour. They also enjoy digging up the garden.

Moderately food motivated

No issues with overeating.

Very good watchdog

An excellent watchdog. Brave, loyal, and completely fearless. Has an excellent nose for potential trouble.

Training a Jämthund

Can be a little stubborn. Puppies can struggle to focus during early years training. However, these dogs are willing learners with a desire to please.

Jämthund: Lifestyle

Not very compatible with living in a flat

A flat is the wrong environment for this large, energetic, working dog.

Needs a lot of exercise

This dog needs around two hours of exercise every day.

Moderately easy to travel with

These big dogs can be awkward to transport, especially for people with smaller cars.

Breed compatibility Jämthund

Not very compatible with cats

It’s best to keep the Jamthund away from cats. They are well known for chasing and hunting small animals.

Not very compatible with other dogs

The Jamthund is a competitive and aggressive animal. They like to take a dominant position and will often overwhelm smaller dogs.

Moderately compatible with children

The Jamthund is very affectionate to children that they know well. However, they should never be left unsupervised around unfamiliar children.

Not compatible with senior owners

Far too big and strong for the majority of elderly dog owners. Many elderly people may struggle to meet this dog’s exercise demands.

Not recommended for a first-time owner

Not the best option for the first-time dog owner. The Jamthund is willful and very strong. Can easily dominate less-experienced dog handlers.

Jämthund: Purchase price

The initial cost of a Jamthund puppy is between £1,000 to £1,500. The average cost to keep one of these dogs (including vet bills, insurance, and food) is between £50 to £100 a month.

Jämthund: Shedding

Average

Very heavy shedders during spring and autumn.

Jämthund: Grooming

A weekly brush. Without this, their coats can become matted and tangled. This is very uncomfortable and can also lead to skin infections and other health complications.

Jämthund: Health

Life expectancy

A very healthy and well-bred dog. Their average life expectancy is between 12 and 14 years.

Strong / robust

These dogs have been hunting some of the world’s largest and most dangerous predators for thousands of years. Bred to survive in the harshest natural environments. Very strong. Very robust.

Vulnerability to hot weather

Sheds during the spring, which helps keep them cool in summer. However, they’re not designed for warmer climates. Will feel uncomfortable in hotter countries.

Vulnerability to cold weather

They have a thick, double-layered coat that provides protection against the cold, the rain, and the wind. No problems surviving the cold.

Tendency to put on weight

No issues with weight or obesity. Any unexplained weight gain could be linked to an underlying health issue. Consult a vet for more advice.

Common illnesses