8 Best Dog Foods For Norwegian Elkhounds
Known for their excellent hunting skills in the past, Norwegian Elkhounds are the best family dogs with strong willpower. The best dog foods for Norwegian Elkhounds are those that are AAFCO compliant, safe, affordable, and meet the nutritional and health requirements of this stubborn breed.
Norwegian Elkhounds need high-quality proteins for amino acids, which support the growth of tissues and strong muscles. Meat-based proteins are the best. Ensure the first ingredient is real meat, including chicken and beef or meat meal. Plant-based proteins do not have the required amino acids for your Elkhound.
Your Elkhound’s lush silver and gray double coat call for foods with healthy fats. Flaxseed, chicken fat, and canola oil are among the best fat sources to provide fatty acids for skin and coat maintenance. Fats also add flavor and provide energy. Fiber, probiotics, prebiotics, and antioxidants should also be present in the best dog foods for Norwegian Elkhound. These nutrients boost your dog’s overall wellness.
Norwegian Elkhounds are also susceptible to various health issues which demand a unique diet. They are prone to hip dysplasia and hypothyroidism and therefore need food with joint-friendly supplements, including calcium, phosphorus, chondroitin, and glucosamine. Hypothyroidism makes dogs gain weight easily hence the need for moderate fats.
In addition, Norwegian Elkhounds are predisposed to retinal atrophy and hence need foods with eye-friendly nutrients, including vitamin A. Furthermore, these strong-willed breeds have abnormal dentition, which results in overbites or underbites. This condition exposes them to the risk of plaque and tartar build-up. Dog foods with teeth-friendly properties come in handy.
The market has a variety of products to offer for Norwegian Elkhounds. However, some manufacturers are deceiving, and this research will help you choose the best for your dog. Going for the right foods is beneficial as it minimizes the risks of obesity, allergies, and digestive problems to keep you and your Norwegian Elkhound happy.
What are the top 5 brands for the best dog foods for Norwegian Elkhounds?
Many brands claim to have the best dog foods for Norwegian Elkhounds. Here’s our list of the top 5 brands to go-to for the best dog foods for Norwegian Elkhounds:
- Merrick
- Blue Buffalo
- American Journey
- Halo Holistic
- Victor Select
Each brand has a unique price. The average price for our best 8 dog foods is $ 62.7 with the price ranging from $ 49.98 to $ 74.99 for bags weighing 20 lbs to 35 lbs. Your dog’s breed and life stage also play a key role when choosing the best dog foods for Norwegian Elkhounds. Large dogs have unique nutritional needs compared to small dogs. Puppies are highly active and need more calories and proteins compared to adults and seniors. Below is a quick summary of the best dog foods for Norwegian Elkhound:
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall  | Merrick Backcountry Grain Free Dry Dog Food Recipes
| 10 | Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy |
Best for Puppies  | Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Dog Food
| 9.9 | Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy |
Best Grain-Inclusive  | Halo Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken & Chicken Liver
| 9.8 | Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy |
Best for Joint Health  | Wellness CORE Natural Dog Food, Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal & Chicken
| 9.7 | Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy |
Best Grain-Free  | Blue Buffalo Wilderness Natural Adult Dry Dog Food
| 9.6 | Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy |
Note: The prices in this article are as of 9th May 2022.
View Table of Contents
- Best Overall 1. Merrick Backcountry Raw Freeze-Dried Grain-Free Dry Food
- Best for Puppies 2. Taste of the Wild Grain-Free Pacific Stream Puppy Dry Food
- Best Grain-Inclusive 3. Halo Holistic Chicken & Chicken Liver Adult Dry Food
- Best for Joint Health 4. Wellness Core Dry Food
- Best Grain-Free 5. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Chicken Recipe Grain-Free Dry Food
- 6. VICTOR Select Yukon River Canine Recipe Grain-Free Dry Food
- 7. American Journey Life Formula Dry Food
- 8. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Food
- What are the facts that you should know about dog foods for Norwegian Elkhounds?
Best Overall
1. Merrick Backcountry Raw Freeze-Dried Grain-Free Dry Food
Delight your dog’s taste buds with this grain-free formula by Merrick Pet Care is best for your Norwegian Elkhound as it is crafted with high-quality ingredients. The first production date is February 6th, 2015, and it targets all dog breeds. The major ingredients include Deboned Beef, Salmon Meal, Lamb Meal, Sweet Potatoes, and Potatoes.
- A high-protein blend of beef, lamb and rabbit
- Free from gluten ingredients for comfortable digestion
- Enhanced with omega fatty acids, glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy skin and joints
- Real beef is the number one ingredient for amino acids to repair body tissues and build muscles.
- It lowers the risk of hip dysplasia with chondroitin and glucosamine.
- This meal is freeze-dried raw-coated for a burst of flavor to attract your selective eater Elkhound.
- It uses highly-digestible protein sources, including lamb and rabbit, to lower the risk of allergies and sensitivities.
- Blueberries are the best sources of powerful antioxidants to prevent oxidative damage.
- Taurine is responsible for a healthy heart, while yucca schidigera minimizes stool odor.
Merrick Backcountry Formula is best for dogs with sensitive digestion, weight problems, and chicken intolerance. Dogs weighing 3 lbs need a daily intake of ⅓ cup, while those weighing 6 lbs require ⅔ cup. Body weights ranging from 10-100 lbs need a range of 1 to 4 ¾ cups. For dogs weighing over 100 lbs, add 1⁄4 cup for every additional 10 lbs. A 20-lbs bag costs $74.98.
Best for Puppies
2. Taste of the Wild Grain-Free Pacific Stream Puppy Dry Food
Nourish your Norwegian Elkhound puppy with the Taste of the Wild Puppy Formula by Diamond Pet Foods, Inc. The initial manufacturing date is December 2nd, 2011, and it targets all dog breeds. Its main ingredients are Salmon, Ocean Fish Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas, and Potatoes.
- Satisfy your dogs cravings with great-tasting smoked fresh salmon
- Grain-free formula supports easy digestion
- Antioxidants help aid in a healthier immune system
- Real salmon is the number one ingredient for premium proteins of 27% to fuel your Norwegian Elkhound’s bones and muscles.
- The fat and calorie values of 15% and 408 Kcal/cup respectively promotes physical activity for your puppy.
- It has DHA for your puppy’s cognitive wellness, improved focus, and easier trainability.
- It is packed with minerals including zinc and selenium for your dog’s overall well-being.
- The essential vitamins including vitamins A and E are crucial for vision and immune health.
- The high fiber content of 5% ensures regular bowel movements to reduce the risk of constipation and diarrhea.
- Omega-6 and 3 fatty acids support skin and coat appearance and minimize the frequencies of shedding.
The Taste of the Wild Puppy Formula is best for dogs with grain allergies and chicken intolerance. Puppies weighing 5 lbs need 1 cup at 2-4 months, ¾ cup at 4-8 months, ⅔ cup at 8-12 months, and ½ cup when they are adults. A 28-lb bag costs $55.99.
Best Grain-Inclusive
3. Halo Holistic Chicken & Chicken Liver Adult Dry Food
Give your Norwegian Elkhound a holistic life with Halo Holistic Formula by Halo. The initial manufacturing date is December 20th, 2002, and it targets all dog breeds. The key ingredients are Chicken, Chicken Liver, Dried Egg Product, Oatmeal, and Pearled Barley.
- Recipe only uses real whole meat and sustainably sourced ingredients
- Highly digestible formula with no artificial ingredients
- Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids promote healthy skin and coat
- Cage-free chicken (25% proteins) for amino acids to support body tissues and muscles.
- Fat value of 15% and calorie content of 403 kcal/cup provide sufficient energy for physical activity.
- It is free from artificial additives and hence easy to absorb for maximum nutritional benefits.
- Flaxseed provides omega 6 and 3 fatty acids for a lush coat and beautiful skin.
- The meaty flavor and crunchy texture delight even the picky eaters. In addition, the crunchy texture reduces the risk of plaque and tartar build-up.
- Inulin is an excellent source of fiber (5%) for smooth digestion and gut wellness.
- Antioxidants, including vitamin E, protect dogs from infections.
The Halo Holistic Formula is best for dogs that can tolerate grains. Dogs weighing 5 lbs need a daily intake of ½ cup, and those weighing 15 lbs need 1 ¼ cup. A 7-10 day transition period ensures your dog becomes accustomed to the new food and minimizes the risks of digestive problems and allergies. A 21-lb bag costs $65.44.
Best for Joint Health
4. Wellness Core Dry Food
Prioritize your Norwegian Elkhound’s overall wellness with Wellness Core Formula by Wellness. The first production date is October 2nd, 2001, and it targets all dog breeds. Its major ingredients include Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal, Chicken Meal, Peas, and Dried Ground Potatoes.
- Dry dog food formulated for whole body health
- High protein sources from fresh meat help with leaner muscle mass
- Made with wholesome, non-GMO ingredients
- The high-value protein of 34% helps repair body tissues and support strong and thick muscles.
- Each cup has 417 calories, which work with the 16% fat value to keep your Elkhound active throughout the day.
- Lentils and other wholesome ingredients provide high-quality fiber of 4% for smooth digestion and reduced frequencies of tummy upsets.
- Norwegian Elkhounds are prone to hip dysplasia, which exposes them to obesity. This recipe comes in handy with calcium, phosphorus, chondroitin, and glucosamine.
- It is fortified with taurine, omega fatty acids, probiotics, and antioxidants which work together to support heart, skin, coat, digestive, and immune health.
- In addition, Norwegian Elkhounds are susceptible to vision problems, and this meal has beta-carotene.
Wellness Core Formula is best for dogs with sensitive tummies and grain allergies. Norwegian Elkhounds weighing 6-10 lbs need a daily intake of ¼ to 1 ¼ cups, while those weighing 20-35 lbs need 1 ¼ to 1 ¾ cups. A 26-lb bag costs $74.99.
Best Grain-Free
5. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Chicken Recipe Grain-Free Dry Food
Satisfy the spirit of your Elkhound’s inner wolf with Blue Buffalo Wilderness Formula by The Blue Buffalo Company, Ltd. The initial production date is February 9th, 2012, and it targets all dog breeds. The main ingredients are Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Peas, Pea Protein, and Tapioca Starch.
- Great-tasting, premium chicken is the first ingredient
- Sweet potatoes and peas provide healthy carbohydrates
- Contains proprietary LifeSource bits, a great source of antioxidants for overall health
- It suits Norwegian Elkhounds as it contains glucosamine, calcium, and phosphorus for joint, bone, and muscle health.
- The protein value of 34% supports lean muscle mass, while the fat value of 15% is important for stamina. The calorie content of 409 Kcal/cup also provides sufficient energy.
- Consuming this meal gives your dog smooth skin and a lustrous coat with omega 6 and 3 fatty acids.
- Chelated minerals and taurine ensure maximum absorption of important nutrients and keep the heart strong and healthy.
- This recipe supports digestive health with the 6% fiber content,
- Blueberries and cranberries provide antioxidants for a healthy oxidative balance, while carrots provide vitamin A for vision health.
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Formula is suitable for dogs with grain allergies and sensitive tummies. Dogs weighing up to 15 lbs need ½ to 1 ¼ cups, and those weighing 16-25 lbs need 1 ¼ to 1 ¾ cups. A 20-lbs bag costs $49.98.
6. VICTOR Select Yukon River Canine Recipe Grain-Free Dry Food
Awaken the champion in your Norwegian Elkhound with Victor Select Yukon Formula by Mid America Pet Food LLC. The first production date is April 23rd, 2013, and it targets all dog breeds. The main ingredients are Menhaden Fish Meal, Peas, Chicken Fat, Garbanzo Beans, and Dehydrated Salmon.
- The 33% protein value is perfect for your Elkhound’s muscle growth and development.
- DHA supports brain wellness, while vitamin E and selenium boost immune health.
- It has linoleic and linolenic acids for skin and coat health.
- The protein value of 16% and 390 calories per cup supports stamina, while the fiber value of 3.8% ensures smooth and regular bowel movements.
- It minimizes the risk of weight gain and hip dysplasia with L-carnitine that breaks down excess fat into useful energy.
- Yucca schidigera is important for less stinky poop and improved digestion.
Victor Select Yukon Formula Is best for dogs with grain allergies and sensitive digestion. Norwegian Elkhounds weighing 5 lbs need ½ cup, while those weighing 10 lbs require ⅞ cups per day. Norwegian Elkhounds weighing 15-100 lbs need a range of 1 ¼ to 5 cups. Add ½ cup for every 20 lbs over 100 lbs. A 30-lb bag costs $67.99.
7. American Journey Life Formula Dry Food
Help your Norwegian Elkhound enjoy its life journey with the American Journey Formula. It is made with a precise blend of nutrients and high-quality ingredients, and it targets all dog breeds. The primary ingredients are Deboned Salmon, Brown Rice, Menhaden Fish Meal, Peas, and Rice Bran.
- Deboned salmon provides high-quality proteins (25%) for apt maintenance of muscles, while the moderate-fat value of 15% and calorie content of 345 Kcal/cup reduce the risk of obesity and hip dysplasia.
- The fiber value of 6% supports the digestive system, while DHA promotes cognitive wellness and improves focus.
- The precise blend of nutrients and antioxidants supports the immune system and overall wellness.
- Great for coat and skin health with omega 6 and 3 fatty acids.
- It is free from wheat, soy, corn, artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.
- Calcium and phosphorus work together for bone, tooth, and muscle well-being.
American Journey Formula is ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Dogs weighing 3 lbs need a daily intake of ½ cup, while those weighing 6 lbs require ⅔ cup. Body weights ranging from 10-100 lbs need 1 to 5 ⅔ cups. Add ⅓ cup for every 10 lbs over 100 lbs. A 28-lbs bag costs $49.99.
8. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Food
Reward your Norwegian Elkhound with Hill’s Science Adult Formula by Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc. the initial production date is February 12th, 2019, and it targets all dog breeds. The primary ingredients include Chicken, Cracked Pearled Barley, Whole Grain Wheat, Whole Grain Corn, and Whole Grain Sorghum.
- Chicken is the first ingredient for premium proteins (20%) to support muscle power.
- Omega-6 fatty acids lower the frequencies of shedding and keep the skin and coat healthy.
- Vitamins C and E are important for immune wellness and hence reduced frequencies of infections.
- This diet is crafted with natural, high-value ingredients free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
- Carrots are great sources of vitamin A for vision and skin health, while taurine ensures proper heart functions.
Hill’s Science Adult Formula is suitable for dogs that can tolerate grains and are aged between 1 and 6 years. Norwegian Elkhounds weighing 5 lbs need a daily consumption of ⅝ cup, while those weighing 10 lbs need 1 cup. Bodyweights ranging from 20-120 lbs need a range of 1 ⅔ to 6 ¼ cups. You can adjust these amounts to ensure your dog maintains a healthy weight. If unsure, consult the vet. Gradually transition your dog over 7 days. A 35-lb bag costs $61.99.
What are the facts that you should know about dog foods for Norwegian Elkhounds?
Norwegian Elkhounds thrive on a well-balanced diet. Here are the facts to know about the best dog foods for Norwegian Elkhounds:
- Norwegian Elkhounds are medium-sized dogs and hence do well with foods for large dog breeds or those crafted to meet the nutritional and health needs of all dog breeds.
- The best dog foods for Norwegian Elkhounds are those with high-quality proteins for the repair of tissues and the building of strong muscles. The proteins should always come from recognizable sources. High-quality protein sources include turkey and salmon. Meat meals are also excellent sources of proteins. Ensure the first ingredient is real meat and avoid ambiguous labels.
- Fats are also important for energy, flavor, and skin health. Look for healthy fat sources, including flaxseed, canola oil, and salmon oil. But you should not give your Norwegian Elkhound foods with lots of fats as they can gain unhealthy weight which causes other health problems.
- Norwegian Elkhounds are prone to hip dysplasia. This calls for dog foods with hip-friendly supplements, including calcium, phosphorus, glucosamine, and chondroitin.
- In addition, Norwegian Elkhounds are susceptible to plaque and tartar build-up. Go for foods with teeth-friendly properties. Foods with a crunchy texture remove plaque as your dog chews them.
- Furthermore, Norwegian Elkhounds are predisposed to vision problems, and foods with beta-carotene come in handy. Carrots are the best sources of beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A.
- Norwegian Elkhounds also need fiber, probiotics, prebiotics, and antioxidants to promote digestive, gut, and immune wellness. Other important vitamins like vitamins C and E and minerals like Zinc and selenium also boost your dog’s health.
What are the best dog foods for Norwegian Elkhounds according to dog sizes?
Your Norwegian size is crucial when selecting the best foods.
The Best Dog Food for Small-Sized Norwegian Elkhounds
- Rachel Ray Nutrish Real Chicken & Brown Rice Bright Puppy Dry Food: Nurture your Norwegian Elkhound puppy with this delicacy. It has chicken as the number one ingredient for healthy organs and lean muscle mass. Calcium is responsible for strong bones, teeth, and muscles, while DHA supports brain and vision health. This recipe is further fortified with omega 6 and 3 fatty acids for beautiful skin.
The Best Dog Food For Medium-Sized Norwegian Elkhounds
- Avoderm Chicken Meal & Brown Rice Weight Support Dry Food: Give your Norwegian Elkhound a bright skin with this omega-packed formula. It is low in fat (8%) for your senior or less active dog. High-quality premium protein is the first ingredient for powerful muscles. Antioxidants, vitamin C, and vitamin E work together for a healthy oxidative balance and improved immunity.
The Best Dog Food for Large Norwegian Elkhounds
- Purina Pro Plan Shredded Blend High Protein Formula Dry Food: Consuming this meal supports your dog’s muscles with chicken as the number one ingredient. It is also packed with probiotics for digestive health and has omegas and vitamin A to nourish your dog’s skin.
What are the best dog foods for Norwegian Elkhounds with different ingredients?
The ingredients used in your dog’s food are crucial. Harmful ingredients like artificial preservatives are a no-go zone. Different ingredients have different nutrients for your dog’s health.
The Best Dog Food with glucosamine for Norwegian Elkhounds
- Diamond Natural High Protein Extreme Athlete Dry Food: Glucosamine is best for your Norwegian Elkhound as this breed is susceptible to hip dysplasia. In addition, it is rich in protein and has calcium for bone and muscle power. L-carnitine minimizes the risk of obesity, which causes heart and joint problems.
The Best Dog Food With Carrots for Norwegian Elkhounds
- Shameless Pets Carrots Flavor Grain-Free Dog Treats: Carrots are the 4th ingredient for vitamin A. Norwegian Elkhounds are prone to vision problems, and vitamin A helps improve eyesight. It is free from grains, corn, or wheat. It has chicken for thick bones and strong muscles.
What are the other dog foods for Norwegian Elkhounds with different health conditions?
Diet plays an important role in your dog’s health. Most health conditions can be relieved with a slight change in diet.
The Best Dog Food for Norwegian Elkhounds with Pancreatitis
- Solid Gold with Fresh Caught Alaskan Pollock Fit & Fabulous Dry Food: This recipe has a low-fat value ( 9.5%) to minimize the risk of overworking the pancreas. Pollock is the number one ingredient for amino acids to strengthen your dog’s muscles. Omega fatty acids, vitamin E, vitamin C, and DHA work together to support skin, coat, immune, and brain health.
The Best Dog Food for Norwegian Elkhounds with Diabetes
- Ketona Chicken Formula Dry Food: This ketogenic dog food is low glycemic and thus suitable for Norwegian Elkhounds with diabetes. It features less than 6% carbs and is free from corn, wheat, soy, rice, potatoes, or barley. The protein value of 46% promotes bone and muscle strength, while the fat value of 16% and calorie content of 452 Kcal/cup keep your dog active throughout the day.
What are the Dietary Requirements for Norwegian Elkhound Dog Foods?
Norwegian Elkhounds are highly-active dogs and hence need a balanced diet with high-quality ingredients for overall wellness. Below are the dietary requirements for Norwegian Elkhound Dog Foods:
- The best dog foods for Norwegian Elkhounds base their formulas on lean, meat-based protein. The best ones are those with the key ingredient being whole meat. Meat meals also have a high concentration of proteins.
- Plant-based proteins including soy, corn, and wheat are hard to digest and hence impact negatively on your Norwegian Elkhound’s digestive health. By-products are also harmful to Norwegian Elkhounds. Read the label carefully to avoid these harmful ingredients.
- Dog foods with additives, fillers, artificial colors, and preservatives have no nutritional value for your Norwegian Elkhound. They only add bulk to the food and make them attractive. When selecting the best foods, for Norwegian Elkhounds, these ingredients are best avoided.
- Carbohydrates are also important for your Norwegian Elkhound’s energy needs, digestion, and immune system. Some of the best sources of carbohydrates include whole grains, vegetables, and fruits.
- Healthy fats give Norwegian Elkhounds lush coats and lustrous skin. Fats also provide energy. Chicken fat and salmon oil are the best animal-based sources of fat, while flaxseed and canola oil are the best plant-based fat sources.
- Supplements also come in handy when selecting the best dog foods for your Norwegian Elkhound. These healthy supplements include glucosamine, chondroitin, probiotics, and prebiotics to promote your dog’s general well-being.
