The Swedish Elkhound is a very old breed believed to have been around during the 1000s. There are speculations that this breed was developed from the dogs of the Stone Age people. Jamtland, a province in the northwestern part of Sweden is the place of origin of this breed. This breed of magnificent conformation has been kept by people in Jamtland at the end of the last ice age. Thus, the dog also gained the name Jamthund.

The Swedish Elkhound is a spitz type dog breed that has the looks of a wolf. Smooth and close lying coat that ranges from light to dark colors cover the rectangular shaped body. This thick double coat is made more impressive by cream or light gray markings on the cheeks, sides of muzzle, chest, belly and legs. A tightly curled tail in the shape of a scimitar add to the already striking appearance of the dog

As the name suggests, the breed was primarily used to hunt elk. Strong, courageous and energetic are apt descriptions for the Swedish Elkhound. This breed is meant to be a working dog. The breeding was aimed at creating a taller and bigger dog with a strong constitution . The dog has to be able to cope with deep snow, steep rocky ledges and thickly forested areas when pursuing the game. Indeed, the Swedish Elkhound, the breed that was developed is a remarkable hunter of elk, moose, lynx, bear and other game. The name Jamthund in fact is a local dialect that means bear dog.

This is a versatile breed. The Swedish Elkhound is a dog that is first and foremost a hunter but the breed has adapted well to doing other duties. A Jamthund is also a herding dog, a utility dog, a guard dog and a sled dog . This brave and intelligent dog has become an army dog as well and was honored by being chosen as the national dog of the Swedish Marine. The dog was also declared as the official service canine of the Swedish Air Force.

A Swedish Elkhound is a bold and aggressive hunter but the dog is noted to have a stoic demeanor. The dog possesses the stable and calm temperament, the affection and the friendly nature of an outstanding companion dog. The affection for the whole family, the tolerance and the gentleness shown to the children are qualities that make a Swedish Elkhound breed an ideal family companion.