Friday, September 14, 2012

Jamthund - Swedens bear dog

By Jerry Welsh


The Swedish Elkhound is a very ancient breed believed to have existed in 1000s. The companion dogs of the Stone Age people are speculated to be the ancestors of this breed. Swedish Elkhounds have originated from Jamtland, a northwestern province of Sweden. It is believed that this breed noted for its magnificent stature has been raised by the Jamtland people during the later period 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. The rectangular shaped body is covered with smooth and close lying light to dark coat. This thick double coat is made more impressive by cream or light gray markings on the cheeks, sides of muzzle, chest, belly and legs. The scimitar shaped tail that is tightly curled over the back enhances the dog's striking appearance

As implied by the name, a Swedish Elkhound was developed to be an elk hunter. The Swedish Elkhound is acknowledged as an energetic hunter that possesses remarkable strength and courage. This breed was specifically developed to be a working dog. The goal of the breeding program is to developed a healthy, tall, big dog . The dog has to be able to cope with deep snow, steep rocky ledges and thickly forested areas when pursuing the game. 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. Primarily developed to be a hunter, the dog has adapted well to its environment so that it was given other duties as well. 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 dog was also declared as the official service canine of the Swedish Air Force.

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. This breed makes wonderful family companions as aside from the love the dog gives to the family, it is especially kind and tolerant of the children.




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