Aussiedoodle vs Norwegian Elkhound
A side-by-side comparison to help you find the right breed for your lifestyle.
Aussiedoodle
Also known as: Aussiepoo, Aussie Poodle, Australian Shepherd Poodle Mix
The Aussiedoodle, also called Aussiepoo, brings together two of the smartest dog breeds—the Australian Shepherd and the Poodle. This designer breed is known for its exceptional intelligence, boundless energy, and stunning coat that often features the merle patterns of the Aussie parent. Aussiedoodles excel in agility, obedience, and as active family companions who thrive on mental and physical stimulation.
Medium
High
10-14 yrs
35-58 cm
18-32 kg
Norwegian Elkhound
The Norwegian Moose Dog, also known as the Norwegian Elkhound, is a robust and versatile hunting breed known for its keen tracking abilities, particularly in hunting large game like moose. With its wolf-like appearance, dense coat, and loyal temperament, this breed is not only a skilled hunter but also a devoted companion.
Large
High
12-15 years yrs
N/A
Quick Comparison
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming Needs | ||
| Family Friendly | ||
| Independence |
Key Characteristics
| Good with Kids | ||
| Good with Dogs | ||
| Good with Cats | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Apartment Friendly | ||
| First-Time Owner OK |
| Detail | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Large |
| Energy Level | High | High |
| Grooming | High | High |
| Trainability | Easy | challenging |
| Barking Level | High | High |
| Shedding Level | Medium | High |
| Chew strength | N/A | Moderate |
| Housing | Yard | Yard |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Intermediate | Experienced |
| First-Time Owner | ||
| Ideal Owner | Active individual or family who works from home or has flexible schedule. Experienced with high-energy breeds. Ready for significant grooming commitment. Enjoys training and dog sports. | Active individual or family who can provide adequate exercise and training for a Norwegian Elkhound. |
Aussiedoodle Dealbreakers
- Sedentary lifestyle - if you want a couch dog after a 20-minute walk
- Long work hours - 8+ hours away from home daily
- Budget constraints - $100/month grooming is a hardship
- No yard or outdoor space
Norwegian Elkhound Dealbreakers
- Cannot meet 60-90 min daily exercise
- Cannot tolerate heavy shedding
Surrender Risk
| Factor | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Risk Level | High | Medium |
| Primary Reasons | He's too hyper - energy underestimated, He nips the kids - herding instinct, Grooming costs overwhelming, Cute puppy → High energy adolescent → Backyard isolation → Barking → Surrender | Underestimated exercise needs, Behavioral challenges, Cost of care |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | High | High |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | High | Low |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Escape Artist | ||
| Dog Park Suitable | ||
| Off-Leash Reliable | ||
| Small Animal Safe | ||
| Leash Reactivity | ||
| Resource Guarding Risk | Low | Low |
Aussiedoodle Social Traits
Low
Generally friendly with dogs
Norwegian Elkhound Social Traits
Moderate
Generally friendly
Training
Aussiedoodle
- Use food motivation for rapid learning
- Keep sessions short and varied to maintain interest
- Channel herding instinct into controlled activities
- Start bite inhibition training early for nipping
Norwegian Elkhound
- ** Positive reinforcement is mandatory. Harsh methods cause them to shut down or become defensive.
Aussiedoodle Considerations
Both parent breeds are 'Velcro' dogs selected for close human cooperation. Aussiedoodles often cannot tolerate isolation, leading to destructive chewing, self-mutilation, and incessant vocalization if left alone for standard workdays.
The Australian Shepherd's herding instinct manifests as nipping heels of running children, chasing bicycles, or attempting to control movement of other pets. Requires consistent training from puppyhood.
Without a 'job' (agility, advanced obedience, nosework), their intelligence turns inward, resulting in obsessive-compulsive behaviors like shadow chasing or flank sucking.
Unlike purebred Aussies, the coat grows continuously. Professional grooming is mandatory every 6-8 weeks at $100-150 per session. Matting can cause skin damage.
Norwegian Elkhound Considerations
This breed was genetically engineered to bark. In their native Norway, their job is to track moose (elk) and hold them at bay by barking rhythmically and continuously until the hunter arrives. This is not a trait that can be "trained out" completely. They will bark at squirrels, cars, delivery drivers, and leaves blowing in the wind. If you live in a noise-restricted community or share walls with neighbors, this breed is a.
Unlike a Golden Retriever that asks, "What can I do for you?", the Elkhound asks, "What's in it for me?" They are independent problem solvers. This manifests as "stubbornness" during training. They will often weigh the value of a treat against the interest of a scent and choose the scent.
These dogs are trackers. If they catch a scent, their ears turn off, and they will follow it for miles. They cannot be trusted off-leash in unfenced areas. Their recall is notoriously unreliable when prey drive is activated.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | May harass by trying to herd them - can coexist if raised together | Caution - may chase |
| Small Mammals | Moderate risk - may harass guinea pigs/rabbits by poking/herding | Supervision required |
| Birds / Reptiles | High risk - Poodle bird dog instinct + Aussie chase drive | Caution advised |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Arrested | Medium |
| Biddability | High | Low |
| Noise Sensitivity | Medium | Low |
| Territorial Barking | ||
| Same-Sex Aggression Onset | N/A | 18 months |
Aussiedoodle: Eye -> Stalk -> Chase sequence from Aussie, Poodle adds retrieval mouthing. Generally safe with family but chase instinct is strong.
First Year & Life Stages
First Year Challenges
| Challenge | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 6-18 | 6-18 |
| House Training | Easy | Moderate |
| Crate Training | Medium | Medium |
| Adolescent Regression |
Aussiedoodle: Combines mouthiness with herding nipping and high intelligence. Will outsmart novice owners. Harder than a Cavalier (2/10) but easier than a Malinois (9/10).
Norwegian Elkhound: Norwegian Elkhound puppies require consistent training and patience.
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 12 months | 12 months |
| Adolescence | 6-24 | 6-18 |
| Adult Years | 2-9 | 2-8 |
| Senior Onset | ~9 years | ~8 years |
| Peak Energy Age | 1-4 years | 1-3 years |
Size & Physical Characteristics
Physical Stats
| Measurement | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 35-58 cm | N/A |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Medium | Large |
| Lifespan | 10–14 years | 12–15 years |
| Litter Size | 6-8 | 4-8 |
Aussiedoodle Coat
Norwegian Elkhound Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | Designer companion combining intelligence and low-shedding coat | conformity to physical standards; may have slightly lower drive but still retain the barking instinc |
| Origin | North America, late 1990s/early 2000s | N/A |
Breeding Details
| Detail | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | Low | Varies |
| Whelping Difficulty | Easy | Medium |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Low | Low |
Physical Risks
| Risk | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | Medium | Low |
| Slippery Floor Risk | Low | Low |
| Min Fence Height | 1.8m | 1.5m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | Medium | Low |
Health & Common Conditions
Aussiedoodle Health Issues
Norwegian Elkhound Health Issues
Aussiedoodle Suggested Tests
- MDR1 DNA test (MANDATORY)
- Hip Evaluation
- Eye Examination
- Adrenal Function Tests
- Skin Biopsy (if skin issues)
Norwegian Elkhound Suggested Tests
- OFA Hips
- OFA Eyes (annually)
- Fanconi urine screen
- Thyroid panel
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Risk | Low | Medium |
| Cardiac Risk | Low | Low |
| Neurological Risk | Medium | Low |
| CCL/ACL Tear Risk | Medium | Low |
| Vet Burden Tier | Medium | Medium |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | Medium | Low |
| Food Allergies | Chicken, Grains |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Growth Rate | Normal | Normal |
| Eye Care Needs | Medium | Low |
| Anal Gland Issues | Rare | Occasional |
Senior Care & Aging
Aussiedoodle Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis/joint stiffness
- Hip dysplasia progression
- Cognitive decline
- Vision loss (PRA)
Highly active brains can be prone to Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. Ramps may be needed for cars/beds.
Norwegian Elkhound Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis
- Vision decline
- Cognitive changes
Senior care varies by individual health.
Grooming & Care
Aussiedoodle
high maintenanceNorwegian Elkhound
high maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
Aussiedoodle Daily Life
Norwegian Elkhound Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | 25-50lbs (Mini) / Over 50lbs (Standard) | Under 50lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | High | Medium |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Good |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Service Dog | Medium | Low |
| Therapy Dog | Medium | Low |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | ||
| Canicross / Bikejoring | ||
| Apartment Adaptable | ||
| Tactile / Sensory Friendly | ||
| Livestock Guardian | ||
| Medical Alert | Medium | Low |
Costs & Expenses
Upfront Costs
| Cost | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,200-3,500+ | N/A |
| Initial Cost Range | $1,200–$3,500 | $1,000–$2,500 |
| Cost Tier |
Ongoing Costs
| Cost | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $200–$300 | $100–$160 |
| Yearly Range | $2,400–$3,600 | $1,200–$1,920 |
| Food / Month | $50-80 | $60-90 |
| Insurance / Month | $50-90 | $40-70 |
| Grooming / Session | $100-150 | $0-50 |
| Vet Routine / Year | $500-1,000 | $500-800 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
Aussiedoodle Lifetime Cost
$25,000-45,000
Norwegian Elkhound Lifetime Cost
N/A
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | Aussiedoodle | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Rare | Occasional |
| Slobber Level | None | Low |
| Smell When Wet | Mild | Moderate |
| Zoomies Frequency | Daily | Occasional |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | Medium | Low |
Aussiedoodle Quirks
The Aussie Lean
Will lean their entire body weight against you as a sign of affection
Goose-ing
May nip the butts or heels of guests as they leave the house (herding instinct)
Counter Surfing
Intelligence allows them to solve 'kitchen puzzles' to get food
The Stare
Inherited from Aussie parent - intense eye contact to get your attention
Frequently Asked Questions
Turn your dog into a brand deal.
Pet brands are looking for authentic creators — not celebrities. If you own a Aussiedoodle or Norwegian Elkhound, you can get free products, gear, and exclusive perks just for sharing your dog's life on Instagram.
No followers minimum · Free to join
Compare with Other Breeds
Compare Aussiedoodle with:
Compare Norwegian Elkhound with:
Based on comprehensive breed research data.