Jämthund

Infobox Dogbreed
altname = Swedish Elkhound
country = SWE
fcigroup = 5
fcinum = 42
fcisection = 2
fcistd = http://www.google.com/search?q=cache:AcGnAKMpy0oJ:www.fci.be/uploaded_files/042gb2003_en.doc+site:www.fci.be+%2242+/+05.+05.+2003%22&hl=en
ukcgroup = Northern Breeds
ukcstd = http://www.ukcdogs.com/WebSite.nsf/Breeds/SwedishElkhound


image_caption = A photo of a Jämthund
name = Jämthund The Jämthund, also called the Swedish Elkhound, is a breed of dog of the Spitz type that are found in Northern Europe. The Jämthund is the National Dog of Sweden, the National Dog of the Swedish Marines, and the Swedish Air Force's official service canine. The Jämthund is eponymous to Jämtland, a province in the middle of Sweden. The dog is described as having a wolf-like appearance.

Appearance

The dog has a tightly curled or a scimitar-like curve in the tail. It has erect ears; medium to long muzzle; strong, long endurance; and has a double coat of usually two colours. The eyes are brown.

History

Since the end of the last ice age, Jämthunds have been raised by the locals in Jämtland. They are used for moose hunting and sled pulling, and were mobilised during wartime for sled pulling. In the local dialect, it used to be referred to as "bear dog".