A working kennel rooted in one of Scandinavia's oldest breeds — bred for the hunt, at home by the fire, and at the heart of everything Ballynorsken stands for.
The Norwegian Elkhound has a history stretching back thousands of years in the rugged Nordic landscapes. Bred to hunt elg (moose) in dense forest and harsh terrain, these dogs were valued for their courage, endurance and determination.
They hunted independently, using their keen senses, intelligence and voice to hold the moose at bay until the hunter arrived — a partnership between dog and human built on trust, respect and teamwork.
Bold and fearless when facing game and challenges.
Quick to learn, independent in thought and action.
Deeply devoted to their family and home.
Naturally watchful, making them excellent guardians.
Built for stamina in all seasons and terrains.
Friendly, stable and good with people and other dogs.
Their coat protects them from snow, rain and extreme cold.
Powerful muscles and agile movement for rocky forests and steep mountains.
Exceptional scent, sharp hearing and excellent vision.
"They don't just work in the forest. They belong there."
"There is something truly special about the Norwegian Elkhound. They are fearless in the forest yet gentle at home. Their loyalty is unmatched, and their spirit is part of Norway's soul. Living with them every day reminds us of our connection to the land, the seasons and the traditions that have shaped this breed for thousands of years. They are more than dogs — they are family."
Klippets Tirhild is our first Norwegian Elkhound and the foundation of Ballynorsken. From the moment she came into our lives, she captured our hearts with her spirit, intelligence and unwavering loyalty. She is not simply a dog — she is the inspiration behind our home, our kennel and our dream.
"Once an Elkhound, always an Elkhound."
💛 Loyal — always by our side
💪 Strong — built for the northern terrain
🐾 Brave — fearless in the forest
🌲 Kind — gentle at home
🧠 Intelligent — quick to learn and solve
🏡 A true family member — loved every day
"A true champion in the ring, and a true Elkhound in the forest."
It was Elsa who inspired us to create Ballynorsken — a place where our love for the Norwegian Elkhound, the Nordic wilderness and the Scandinavian way of life could come together. Her spirit, loyalty and connection to the land shaped our vision and our future.
"Without Elsa, there would be no Ballynorsken."
Klippets Tirhild is the heart of Ballynorsken. She is our foundation, our companion and our champion. Her legacy will live on in every dog we breed, every guest we welcome, and every experience we share here in the Nordic wilderness.
"Klippets Tirhild — our heart, our champion, our inspiration, forever."
Ballynorsken Norwegian Elk Hounds was founded on a deep respect for the ancient heritage of the Norsk Elghund Grå — a breed shaped by the wild and trusted by generations. We are a small, dedicated kennel in the heart of northern Sweden, committed to preserving the true working spirit, soundness and beauty of this remarkable breed.
We breed only from dogs with excellent hip scores, strong conformation and soundness.
Our dogs are born to hunt. We value natural ability, drive and perseverance.
We breed to the FCI standard, with correct structure, movement and type.
Stable, confident and friendly — Elkhounds that are a joy to live and work with.
We plan for generations, not just litters — for the future of the breed.
"We don't just breed dogs — we continue a legacy."
"Every puppy that leaves us carries a piece of our heart and the spirit of the north."
Our puppies are raised in our home, surrounded by love, care and the sights and sounds of the wilderness.
Exposed to people, children, other dogs and different environments and stimuli.
Vaccinated and microchipped, with the best foundation for their future.
Get in touch to be notified of upcoming litters and join our waiting list.
"When you welcome a Ballynorsken puppy, you become part of our extended family."
Full pedigree and breeding record: Klippets Tirhild on Hitta Älghund
Interested in a puppy, our bloodlines, or visiting the kennel? This goes straight to kennel@ballynorsken.se.
