Kristopher’s Pet Blog

The Swedish Elkhound is a very old breed believed to have been around during the 1000s. The companion dogs of the Stone Age people are speculated to be the ancestors of this breed. Swedish Elkhounds were developed in Jamtland, a province in northwestern Sweden. During the later part of the last Ice Age, the Jamtland people have developed the Swedish Elkhound, a breed of dog with an outstanding stature. As a consequence, the Swedish Elkhound is also known as Jamthund.

The Swedish Elkhound is a spitz type dog breed that has the looks of a wolf. Smooth and close lying coat that ranges from light to dark colors cover the rectangular shaped body. Grey and cream markings on various parts of the body makes the thick double coat more beautiful. The scimitar shaped tail that is tightly curled over the back enhances the dog’s striking appearance

Obviously, a Swedish Elkhound’s job is to hunt elks. A Swedish Elkhound is a strong, courageous and energetic hunter. A Swedish Elkhound was primarily bred 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. The Swedish Elkhound has gained a name for being an outstanding hunter not only of elk but of moose, lynx, bear and other game. The name Jamthund in fact is a local dialect that means bear dog.

A Swedish Elkhound is an all around breed. The Swedish Elkhound is a dog that is first and foremost a hunter but the breed has adapted well to doing other duties. 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 Swedish Air Force has chosen this breed to be their official service canine as well.

Bold and aggressive when hunting, a Swedish Elkhound is known for its stoic demeanor. The dog possesses the stable and calm temperament, the affection and the friendly nature of an outstanding companion dog. The affection for the whole family, the tolerance and the gentleness shown to the children are qualities that make a Swedish Elkhound breed an ideal family companion.

Learn more about the Swedish Elkhound breed at Sarah’s Dogs.

American Foxhound - A Versatile Dog Breed

The American Foxhound bears a striking resemblance to the body build of a Beagle. The dog generally stands between 21 to 25 inches and weighs from 65 to 75 pounds. This breeds athletic sleek body is covered with a smooth coat of tan and white, red and white or black red and white combination. Well boned, straight and long legs give this breed its legendary speed.

Although this hunting breed has adapted the name America, these dogs have existed long before the land has gained independence from Great Britain. The breed originated from the English dogs that were brought to the New World in 1650 by Robert Brooke.

In Great Britain, these dogs were highly acclaimed for their excellent hunting abilities. These dogs are favorite hunting companions of the British landed gentry. In a fox hunt, hunters on horseback follow packs of American Foxhounds. A change in the deep melodious voice of the dog signifies that a prey is found. New World settlers utilize the dog in the same manner. American Foxhound is a ferocious breed thus it was rumored that the dog have been used by the colonizers to hunt Indians.

The American Foxhound was developed from the crossing of English hounds with the dogs of settlers from Ireland and France. This has resulted to the development of the American Foxhound.

The American Foxhound, first and foremost is a hunting dog. This dogs would love nothing more than to hunt. An ultra sensitive scenting ability, a remarkable staying power and a passionate desire to overpower a prey make this breed a notable hunter. An American Foxhound is an intense hunter, once a prey is sighted, the dog will not stop until the animal is taken. Foxes are the usual quarry of American Foxhounds but these dogs hunts other animals too.No wonder, the breed is highly valued as a hunting dog.

The breed has excellent hunting prowess is basically the reason why these dogs are highly valued. Although the dogs exhibit a courageous and tenacious temperament when hunting, American Foxhounds have a sweet and gentle personality. Highly energetic while hunting, this dog turns into a calm, gentle and sweet family companion. This breed of dogs is not a one man dog. This breed that loves the whole family is particularly affectionate and gentle with children.