Our NE was with us for 16 years. From the beginning she had a bit of an attitude but was never aggressive. We actually found it endearing. Our family appreciated her intelligence and love for attention. She always begged for food, a bit too much at times, but never to the point where it was offensive. She was the best dog ever. Highly recommended. *As for the digging of the previous review, we never had any of those problems with Ilsa. Sometimes she would bark at people outside, but if we told her to hush, she would.

Pros: smart, sweet, great with children, lots of personality, not a pushover

Cons: shedding

Tucker and I have been inseparable for almost two years. In that time I've nursed him back to health from heartworms and have moved several times. He takes everything in stride and is always along for the ride. Over the past two years we adopted another dog (a blue heeler) and began living with another (a pit mix). He is often playful with them, but also likely to find a place to be on his own. Tucker is incredibly self-contained but never aloof or avoidant. I'd say he's the best dog you could ever ask for as a companion...if he didn't shed, but that's a small minus to a whole world of pluses for this dog.

Pros: Laid-back, friendly, adaptable, loyal

Cons: Sheds A LOT

Be careful to keep these dogs indoors during hot weather. My Elkhound died from heat stroke after being outside for a very brief walk of only five minutes during an August heat wave. They also bark a lot!

Pros: Very loving temperament, good with kids

Cons: Easily prone to heat stroke; Nonstop barking

we got trooper when he was only 5 weeks old, and to be honest I didnt want him, we already had 2 dogs. He was supposed to be the kids and their dads dog but he is mine, from my point of view and his lol, and he has been the best mannered, sweet, loving, and most obediant dog I have ever had and I would have to say Trooper is my fav. He trained very easily and early we started at 6 weeks he does many tricks even though he is an outside dog he is house trained. He likes to be inside with the family for a little while but really prefers the outside. So far he isnt leary of strangers he seems to like everyone and just wants attention. he is about to turn 1. Looking forward to many years of companionship with him.

Pros: very gentle, playfull, loving, smart, loyal

Cons: does do some digging only when bored, some barking, high shedding.

We got Jake when he was 18 mos old. Was the best family dog and great in the house. Loved to go for walks and enjoyed people. Very loyal to children. We had him for over 14 years and he lived to about 17. Miss him greatly!! Highly recommend this bred.

Pros: gentle, active, smart, loving

Cons: barks, sheds

My oldest NE is named Mama. She thinks that she must "mother" every animal that is smaller than her, even if it is full grown. She is well trained and very obedient. Recently we got a NE puppy. He is very playful and great with the kids. He does well with cats and dogs, but needs to be watched around our ducks. He likes to chase them and sit on them if he catches them but he's never harmed one. We have a major coyote problem and both dogs are very good at alerting me when they are near and even chased a few off that got too close. They make a huge fuss when anyone comes to the house, but as soon as you pet them the quiet and calm down. They both desire a lot of attention, but do not bark to get it. They will just come and sit next to you and wait to be petted.

Pros: Loyal, good with other dogs, good with children, patient

Cons: loud barking, shedding

I've grown up with these dogs and could NOT imagine having any other; and I've been around almost every other breed out there being at shows for many years. They are very loyal and protective (especially of my 3 children) and want to be a part of the family. We live in Ga. and they do fine in the heat. They are indoor dogs (as all should be) and do need some exercise yet you don't need to be fanatical about it. Keep them brushed and bathed (every 2 months) and the shedding is not bad. Elkhounds love food (rare is the one who does not eat - I'd do testing) so watch the food intake, especially if the exercise is on the low side. You should feel their rib cage yet they need a little meat on them. It's easiest to tell when wet since the double coat makes it hard to judge.They get along fine with other animals yet, like any other dog, need to be introduced on neutral ground and taught when out of line.These dogs are so sweet and smart and a beauty to look at. You should count yourself fortunate to know one!

Pros: Loyal, protective, beautiful inside and out, smart! (almost too smart!)

Cons: Shedding yet that's what vacuums are for!