Longevity
Life expectancy
Its usual lifespan is between 11 and 13 years, subject to a balanced diet, regular activity and appropriate veterinary follow-up.
Build
A robust breed?
The Norwegian Hound is a robust dog, selected for endurance and hunting work. Its constitution is hardy, without excluding the need for preventive check-ups and regular maintenance.
Watch points
What to watch for
Regular monitoring of the joints, hearing, eyes, ears and skin makes it possible to quickly identify the main disorders likely to affect the breed.
Hip dysplasia : A developmental abnormality of the joint that can cause pain, lameness, and osteoarthritis.
Elbow dysplasia : A joint disorder likely to cause locomotor discomfort and early osteoarthritis.
Deafness : A congenital or acquired hearing loss that warrants an evaluation if in doubt.
Progressive retinal atrophy : A degeneration of the retina that can lead to a progressive decrease in vision.
Demodectic mange : A skin condition linked to the proliferation of mites that can cause lesions and hair loss.
Otitis : An inflammation of the ear canal promoted by drooping ears and requiring prompt care.
Climate
Cold and heat tolerance
Its dense coat and Nordic build give it good tolerance to cold. Its tolerance to heat is average: during hot periods, activity must be adapted and intense efforts avoided during the hottest hours.
Weight
Tendency to gain weight
Its tendency to gain weight is average. The ration must match its level of activity, notably by being increased during the hunting season and then brought back to its usual level when this period ends.
Daily life
Good habits to keep it healthy
- Have the hips and elbows checked.
- Inspect the ears, eyes and skin after outings.
- Monitor hearing and consult if in doubt.
- Maintain a stable weight thanks to a ration adapted to the activity.
Vaccination
Norwegian Hound vaccines: vaccination schedule
Which vaccines for a Norwegian Hound? Like all cats, the Norwegian Hound receives essential vaccines from 8 weeks old: Typhus (panleukopenia) and Coryza. The kitten primary vaccination for Norwegian Hound is given in several injections 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year, even if it lives in an apartment. Depending on its lifestyle (outdoor access, multi-cat household, shows, travel), your veterinarian may complete the protocol with vaccines against Feline leukemia (FeLV), Rabies and Chlamydiosis.
| Vaccine | Primary series | First booster | Then | Who for? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Typhus (panleukopenia)Core Feline panleukopenia (cat parvovirus) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
CoryzaCore Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
Feline leukemia (FeLV)Lifestyle-based Feline leukemia virus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Outdoor cats, cats living in a group or in a cattery |
RabiesLifestyle-based Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, cat shows and most boarding kennels |
ChlamydiosisLifestyle-based Chlamydia felis (contagious conjunctivitis) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Cats living in groups, catteries, show cats |
Adult Norwegian Hound vaccine boosters are annual for cat flu and leukemia if it goes outdoors; for panleukopenia, a booster every three years is often sufficient after the first booster. Your veterinarian will adjust the schedule to your cat’s lifestyle.
Which boosters for your Norwegian Hound?
Enter your companion’s age: we list the vaccines to do now and the next boosters.
Adopting well
Adopting a healthy Norwegian Hound
Screening of the hips and elbows is recommended, particularly for breeding dogs. The veterinary examination must also take into account hearing, vision, ears and skin condition.
This information is provided for guidance only and does not replace a veterinarian’s advice. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, consult a professional.
