Elkhounds

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A breed of large, spitz-type dogs known for their strength and stamina, often used for hunting and herding
2. These canines exhibit a distinctive thick, double coat and are characterized by their loyalty and intelligence
3. Typically, they are skilled in tracking and have a strong prey drive, making them excellent companions for outdoor activities

Etymology: "Elkhounds" is the plural of "elkhound", a large hunting dog. The singular is a compound of "elk" and "hound". "Elk" in this sense is the Eurasian animal, the moose, which is called an elk in Europe, and the dogs were bred to track and hold large game of that kind. In Norwegian and other Scandinavian languages the breed is still known by a name built on the same elements, so the English term is a direct translation of a northern European hunting dog name rather than a description coined from scratch in English.

Synonyms: dogs