Norwegian Elkhound vs Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Which dog breed is right for you?

Norwegian Elkhound

Size
48–55 lbs, 20–21 in
Lifespan
12–15 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
No
Bold Hardy Loyal Friendly

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Size
30–40 lbs, 17–19 in
Lifespan
12–14 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
High
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Happy Friendly Devoted Lively

About the Norwegian Elkhound

The Norwegian Elkhound is one of the oldest European breeds, with archaeological evidence dating its partnership with humans back over 6,000 years in Scandinavia. These medium-sized spitz-type dogs stand 19.5 to 20.5 inches tall and weigh 48 to 55 pounds, built for endurance in rugged terrain. Their dense, silver-gray double coat with black-tipped guard hairs and lighter undercoat provided vital insulation against harsh Nordic winters.

Temperament & Personality

Norwegian Elkhounds are bold, independent, and deeply loyal — bred to track moose and hold them at bay while alerting hunters with their distinctive bark. They are affectionate and playful with family members, including children, and possess a dignified confidence around strangers. Their independent nature means they think for themselves, which can be both endearing and challenging during training.

Pros

  • Hardy constitution with excellent stamina for hiking and outdoor adventures
  • Loyal and protective family companion with natural watchdog instincts
  • Adapts well to cold climates and enjoys winter activities
  • Relatively healthy breed with a lifespan of 12 to 15 years

Cons

  • Heavy seasonal shedding — blows coat twice yearly in massive amounts
  • Independent and stubborn, requiring patient and consistent training
  • High barking tendency — bred to bark while tracking game
  • Prone to hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and Fanconi syndrome

If you love the outdoors and want a steadfast Nordic companion, explore Norwegian Elkhound listings on Puplister.

About the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier originated in Ireland over 200 years ago as an all-purpose farm dog — herding livestock, guarding property, and dispatching vermin, earning it the nickname "the poor man's wolfhound." These medium-sized dogs stand 17 to 19 inches tall and weigh 30 to 40 pounds, with a sturdy, compact build beneath their distinctive coat. Their single-layer, silky, wavy coat matures from a dark puppy color to its signature warm wheaten gold by about two years of age — and unlike most terriers, it is soft rather than wiry.

Temperament & Personality

Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are exuberant, affectionate, and joyful — known for their characteristic "Wheaten greeting" where they enthusiastically jump up to lick faces, which can be endearing or problematic depending on the recipient. They are deeply devoted to their families, excellent with children, and more tolerant of other dogs than many terrier breeds. Their happy, bouncy energy remains well into adulthood, and they approach life with an infectious enthusiasm that brightens any household.

Pros

  • Single coat sheds minimally — more suitable for allergy-sensitive households
  • Friendly and exuberant — loves people and gets along with children and other dogs
  • Less aggressive and territorial than many other terrier breeds
  • Versatile and athletic — enjoys agility, hiking, and active family life

Cons

  • Coat requires daily brushing and regular professional grooming to prevent matting
  • Prone to protein-losing nephropathy and protein-losing enteropathy — serious breed-specific conditions
  • Jumping and exuberant greeting behavior can be difficult to manage
  • Can be stubborn during training and requires patient, consistent methods

The Wheaten Terrier's joyful spirit and soft golden coat are hard to resist — discover available Wheatens on Puplister.

Available for Adoption

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Norwegian Elkhounds

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10

Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Norwegian Elkhound and a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier?
The Norwegian Elkhound is 48–55 lbs, 20–21 in sized while the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is 30–40 lbs, 17–19 in sized. They differ in size (48–55 lbs, 20–21 in vs 30–40 lbs, 17–19 in), lifespan (12–15 years vs 12–14 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Norwegian Elkhound or Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier?
Norwegian Elkhound is generally good with kids. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Norwegian Elkhound or Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier?
The Norwegian Elkhound has a lifespan of 12–15 years while the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has a lifespan of 12–14 years.

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