# Norwegian Elkhound Feeding Guide: Calorie Targets and Sensitive Stomach Diet Plans
## Key Takeaways
- Adult Norwegian Elkhounds require approximately 900-1,400 kcal daily, with precise needs dictated by weight, age, and activity level; calorie intake should be adjusted based on body condition score (BCS) and measured by weight, not volume, to prevent obesity.
- Many Elkhounds exhibit signs of digestive intolerance, commonly manifesting as loose stools, flatulence, or bile vomiting, which can stem from dietary indiscretion, food allergies/intolerances, or underlying conditions like Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI) or Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
- For sensitive stomachs, a highly digestible, limited-ingredient diet featuring a single novel protein source and moderate fat content (10-15% on a dry matter basis) is recommended, with veterinary therapeutic diets often being the most effective.
- Veterinary diagnostics for digestive issues may include fecal examinations for parasites, blood work (CBC, biochemistry), specific enzyme tests (TLI, PLI), and imaging (X-rays, ultrasound), with endoscopy and biopsy reserved for suspected IBD or neoplasia.
- Transitioning to any new diet should be gradual over 7-10 days, and feeding two to three smaller meals daily is preferable to one large meal for improved digestion and reduced risk of gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV).
- Immediate veterinary consultation is critical for persistent vomiting/diarrhea (>24 hours), blood in excreta, lethargy, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, or signs of collapse, as these can indicate serious medical emergencies.
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Feeding a Norwegian Elkhound correctly means balancing breed-specific energy needs with a digestive system that can be finicky. This guide provides a direct answer: adult Norwegian Elkhounds typically need 900 to 1,400 calories per day depending on weight, age, and activity, and many benefit from a sensitive stomach diet that avoids common triggers like excessive fat and certain proteins. If your Elkhound is vomiting, has diarrhoea (or diarrhea), or is refusing food for more than 24 hours, contact your veterinarian immediately before making any dietary changes.
Many Elkhound owners report that their dogs have "sensitive stomachs." While not a formal medical diagnosis, this term usually describes dogs that frequently pass loose stools, vomit bile occasionally, or show flatulence after eating. This guide covers calorie targets, diet plans for sensitive digestion, and when to seek veterinary help. It is written for owners in the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia, and it notes regional differences in food regulations and parasite risks where relevant.
This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment.
## At a Glance: Quick Feeding Reference for Norwegian Elkhounds
The table below offers a starting point. Individual needs vary by 20 to 30 percent, so use these numbers as a baseline, not a prescription.
| Life Stage | Weight Range (kg / lbs) | Daily Calories (approx.) | Meals per Day | Food Type |
|, - |, - |, - |, - |, - |
| Puppy (2-6 months) | 5-15 kg / 11-33 lbs | 600-1,100 | 3-4 | Large-breed puppy formula |
| Puppy (6-12 months) | 15-22 kg / 33-48 lbs | 1,000-1,400 | 2-3 | Large-breed puppy or adult maintenance |
| Adult (active) | 20-27 kg / 44-60 lbs | 1,200-1,600 | 2 | High-quality adult maintenance |
| Adult (sedentary) | 20-27 kg / 44-60 lbs | 900-1,200 | 2 | Adult maintenance, reduced calorie if needed |
| Senior (7+ years) | 20-27 kg / 44-60 lbs | 800-1,100 | 2 | Senior formula, lower fat |
**Key decisions at a glance:**
- **Calorie control:** Elkhounds gain weight easily. Measure food by weight, not volume.
- **Sensitive stomach:** Choose a diet with a single novel protein source and moderate fat content (under 15 percent on a dry matter basis).
- **Feeding schedule:** Two meals per day is safer than one large meal for breeds prone to gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat), though Elkhounds are not a high-risk breed.
- **Supplements:** Do not add vitamins or minerals without veterinary approval. Excess calcium can cause orthopedic problems in growing puppies.
## Understanding the Norwegian Elkhound: Breed History and Nutritional Implications
The Norwegian Elkhound is a spitz-type breed from Scandinavia, historically used to hunt moose, bear, and other large game. They are hardy, cold-weather dogs with a thick double coat and a strong prey drive. This history shapes their nutritional needs in several ways.
First, they were bred for endurance, not sprinting. They can travel long distances over rough terrain, which means they have a moderate to high daily energy expenditure when working. However, most pet Elkhounds today are companion animals, not hunters. Their calorie needs are therefore closer to those of an average active [dog](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/clinical-methods/dog), not a working sled dog.
Second, the breed has a reputation for being "thrifty," meaning they metabolize food efficiently. This is a survival trait from their history of uncertain food availability in harsh climates. In modern homes, this thriftiness translates into a tendency toward obesity if portions are not controlled. A 2018 study using data from the UK found that certain breeds, including spitz-types, had higher odds of being overweight, though Elkhounds specifically were not highlighted. The general principle applies: measure food, limit treats, and adjust portions based on body condition.
Third, Elkhounds are a relatively healthy breed, but they do have some genetic predispositions. These include hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and a condition called Fanconi syndrome (a kidney disorder). None of these directly dictate a specific diet, but maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on joints and supports overall health.
## Calorie Targets: How Many Calories Does a Norwegian Elkhound Need?
Calorie requirements are not a fixed number. They depend on age, neuter status, activity level, and individual metabolism. The resting energy requirement (RER) is the number of calories a dog needs at rest. The maintenance energy requirement (MER) is the RER multiplied by a factor based on life stage and activity.
The formula for RER is: RER (kcal/day) = 70 x (body weight in kg)^0.75.
For a 22 kg (48 lb) adult Elkhound, the RER is approximately 70 x (22^0.75) = 70 x 10.2 = 714 kcal/day. The MER is then calculated by multiplying RER by a factor:
- Neutered adult: 1.6 x RER = 1,142 kcal/day
- Intact adult: 1.8 x RER = 1,285 kcal/day
- Active working dog: 2.0 to 5.0 x RER = 1,428 to 3,570 kcal/day
- Sedentary or prone to obesity: 1.2 to 1.4 x RER = 857 to 1,000 kcal/day
These numbers align with the ranges in the table above. For puppies, the MER is higher: 2.0 to 3.0 x RER for growth, depending on age.
**Practical calorie guidance:**
- **Weigh your dog monthly.** Use a scale at home or at the veterinary clinic. Body weight is the single best indicator of whether you are feeding the right amount.
- **Use a body condition score (BCS).** The 9-point scale is standard. A score of 4 or 5 is ideal. You should be able to feel the ribs easily without seeing them, and there should be a visible waist when viewed from above.
- **Adjust portions by 10 to 15 percent.** If your dog is gaining weight, reduce food by 10 to 15 percent. If losing weight, increase by the same amount. Wait two weeks before reassessing.
- **Account for treats.** Treats should make up no more than 10 percent of daily calories. A single large biscuit can be 50 to 100 kcal, which is significant for a dog on a 1,200 kcal budget.
**Regional note on food labeling:** In the United States, [pet food](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/nutrition/pet-food) labels are regulated by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), and calorie content is often listed as "kcal/cup" or "kcal/kg." In Canada, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) oversees pet food labeling, and calorie statements are voluntary but common. In the European Union, the European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF) sets nutritional standards, and calorie content is typically listed per 100g or per kg. In Australia, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) regulates imported pet food, and the Australian Pet Food Manufacturers Association (APFMA) provides guidelines. Always check the label for the calorie density, and calculate portions based on that number, not on the feeding chart alone.
## Sensitive Stomachs in Norwegian Elkhounds: Causes and Clinical Signs
Many Elkhound owners describe their dogs as having "sensitive stomachs." This is not a specific diagnosis but a collection of signs that suggest digestive intolerance. Common signs include:
- Soft or loose stools, sometimes with mucus
- Frequent flatulence
- Vomiting bile, especially in the morning on an empty stomach
- Gurgling noises from the abdomen (borborygmi)
- Eating grass or other non-food items (pica)
- Occasional refusal of food
These signs can have many causes, ranging from dietary indiscretion to food allergies to underlying medical conditions.
### Dietary Indiscretion
This is the most common cause of acute digestive upset in any dog. Elkhounds are curious and will eat things they should not, including garbage, spoiled food, or foreign objects. A sudden change in diet, such as switching brands without a transition period, can also cause loose stools.
### Food Allergies and Intolerances
True food allergies (an immune-mediated response) are less common than food intolerances (a non-immune digestive reaction). In dogs, the most common food allergens are beef, dairy, chicken, wheat, and lamb. A food intolerance might be triggered by high-fat content, certain fibers, or specific proteins.
For a dog with suspected food allergies, a veterinary elimination diet trial is the gold standard. This involves feeding a diet with a single novel protein (one the dog has never eaten) and a single novel carbohydrate for 8 to 12 weeks. If signs resolve, individual ingredients are reintroduced to identify the trigger.
### Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI)
EPI is a condition where the pancreas does not produce enough digestive enzymes. It causes weight loss despite a good appetite, voluminous greasy stools, and a dull coat. It is more common in German Shepherds but can occur in any breed. Diagnosis requires a blood test for trypsin-like immunoreactivity (TLI). Treatment involves enzyme replacement and a highly digestible, low-fiber diet.
### Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
IBD is a chronic condition where inflammatory cells infiltrate the intestinal wall. It causes chronic vomiting, diarrhoea, and weight loss. Diagnosis requires intestinal biopsies, which are typically performed under anesthesia. Management involves dietary modification (often a hydrolyzed protein diet) and immunosuppressive medications.
### Parasites
[Intestinal parasites](/knowledge/parasites/pet-parasites/intestinal-parasites-dogs-cats-identification-treatment), including roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and Giardia, can cause diarrhoea and vomiting. Puppies are especially at risk. In North America, heartworm is transmitted by mosquitoes and is a concern in many regions. In Australia, the tick paralysis toxin from the paralysis tick (Ixodes holocyclus) can cause vomiting and weakness, and it is an emergency. In Europe, the fox tapeworm ([Echinococcus multilocularis](/knowledge/parasites/pet-parasites/echinococcus-multilocularis-dogs-foxes-alveolar-echinococcosis-zoonosis)) is a zoonotic risk in some areas, though it is rare in domestic dogs. Regular fecal examinations and parasite prevention are essential. The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) provides regional guidelines for North America, and similar recommendations exist in Europe and Australia.
### Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV)
GDV, or bloat, is a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists. Large, deep-chested breeds are at highest risk. Elkhounds are not typically listed as a high-risk breed, but any large dog can develop GDV. Signs include a distended abdomen, retching without producing vomit, restlessness, and rapid breathing. This is a true emergency. Feeding one large meal per day and exercising vigorously immediately after eating may increase risk, so feeding two smaller meals is prudent.
## Veterinary Examination and Diagnostics for Digestive Issues
If your Elkhound has persistent digestive signs, a veterinary examination is warranted. The veterinarian will take a thorough history, including diet, treat intake, access to garbage, and any recent changes in environment. They will perform a physical examination, paying attention to the abdomen, hydration status, and body condition.
Diagnostic tests may include:
- **Fecal examination:** To check for parasites.
- **Blood work:** A complete blood count (CBC) and biochemistry panel to assess organ function, including the pancreas and kidneys.
- **TLI and PLI tests:** To rule out EPI and pancreatitis.
- **Imaging:** X-rays or ultrasound to look for foreign bodies, tumors, or intestinal thickening.
- **Endoscopy and biopsy:** For suspected IBD or cancer.
The specific tests chosen will depend on the clinical signs and the veterinarian's findings. Do not attempt to diagnose or treat chronic digestive issues at home. Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which require medical intervention.
## Evidence-Based Management: Diet Plans for Sensitive Stomachs
When a medical cause has been ruled out or managed, dietary modification is the cornerstone of treating a sensitive stomach. The goal is to provide a highly digestible diet that minimizes gastrointestinal upset.
### Choosing a Commercial Diet
Look for a diet that meets the following criteria:
- **High digestibility:** Ingredients should be highly digestible. Look for named meat sources (e.g., "chicken," "salmon") rather than generic "meat meal."
- **Moderate fat content:** Fat is difficult to digest and can trigger diarrhea or pancreatitis in sensitive dogs. Aim for a fat content of 10 to 15 percent on a dry matter basis.
- **Single protein source:** A diet with one protein source (e.g., salmon, duck, or venison) is easier to identify as a trigger than one with multiple proteins.
- **Limited ingredients:** Fewer ingredients mean fewer potential triggers.
- **Added fiber:** Some dogs benefit from moderate fiber, such as beet pulp or pumpkin. Soluble fiber can help firm up stools, while insoluble fiber adds bulk.
- **No artificial additives:** Avoid artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives where possible.
Veterinary therapeutic diets, such as those from Hill's, Royal Canin, or Purina, are formulated to be highly digestible and are often recommended for sensitive stomachs. These include hydrolyzed protein diets (where the protein is broken into small pieces that are less likely to trigger an immune response) and gastrointestinal support diets. These are available through veterinarians and are backed by research.
### Home-Prepared Diets
A home-prepared diet can be an option, but it must be formulated by a veterinary nutritionist. Homemade diets are often deficient in essential nutrients if not properly balanced. The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) provides guidelines on selecting pet foods and emphasizes the importance of complete and balanced nutrition. If you choose to cook for your dog, work with a board-certified veterinary nutritionist to create a recipe that meets AAFCO or FEDIAF standards.
### Transitioning Foods
Any diet change should be gradual, over 7 to 10 days. Start with 25 percent new food mixed with 75 percent old food, then 50/50, then 75/25, and finally 100 percent new food. This allows the digestive system to adapt and reduces the risk of diarrhea.
### Feeding Frequency
For a sensitive stomach, feeding two to three smaller meals per day is better than one large meal. This reduces the workload on the digestive system and helps prevent bilious vomiting syndrome, where a dog vomits bile on an empty stomach. If your dog vomits bile in the morning, try giving a small meal or a treat right before bedtime.
### Sample Sensitive Stomach Diet Plan
This is a sample plan for a 22 kg adult Elkhound with a sensitive stomach. It is not a prescription. Work with your veterinarian to tailor it to your dog.
- **Morning (7:00 AM):** 1 cup of a limited-ingredient salmon and potato dry food (approximately 350-400 kcal), soaked in warm water for 5 minutes.
- **Midday (12:00 PM):** 1/2 cup of plain, cooked pumpkin (not pie filling) mixed with 1/4 cup of the dry food.
- **Evening (6:00 PM):** 1 cup of the same dry food, plus 1 tablespoon of a veterinary probiotic supplement.
Total daily calories: approximately 900 to 1,000 kcal. Adjust based on your dog's body condition.
**Important:** Do not add any human foods without veterinary approval. Some safe options for settling an upset stomach include plain boiled chicken (no skin, no bones), white rice, and plain canned pumpkin. However, these should only be used for short-term management of acute upset, not as a long-term diet.
## Unsafe Home Remedies and Foods to Avoid
Some foods and remedies are dangerous and should never be given to a dog:
- **Xylitol:** An artificial sweetener found in sugar-free gum, candy, and some peanut butters. It causes a rapid drop in blood sugar and liver failure. This is a medical emergency.
- **Chocolate:** Contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to dogs. Dark chocolate is more dangerous than milk chocolate.
- **Grapes and raisins:** Can cause acute kidney failure in some dogs. The exact toxin is unknown.
- **Onions, garlic, and chives:** Can damage red blood cells and cause anemia.
- **Macadamia nuts:** Can cause weakness, vomiting, and tremors.
- **Alcohol:** Even small amounts can be fatal.
- **Cooked bones:** Can splinter and cause intestinal perforation.
- **Milk and dairy:** Many dogs are lactose intolerant and will develop diarrhea.
- **Human medications:** Never give a dog any medication without veterinary approval. Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and naproxen are toxic.
**Home remedies to avoid:**
- **Inducing vomiting without veterinary direction:** This can be dangerous if the dog has ingested a caustic substance or a sharp object.
- **Giving hydrogen peroxide:** Only use under veterinary guidance, and never if the dog is lethargic, having seizures, or having trouble breathing.
- **Using essential oils:** Many essential oils are toxic to dogs, both when applied topically and when diffused.
## Prevention: Establishing Healthy Eating Habits
Prevention is always better than treatment. Here are strategies to keep your Elkhound's digestive system healthy:
- **Feed a consistent, high-quality diet.** Avoid frequent brand changes.
- **Measure food accurately.** Use a kitchen scale for the most precision.
- **Limit treats.** Use small, low-calorie treats, or use pieces of your dog's regular kibble as rewards.
- **Prevent scavenging.** Keep garbage cans secured, and do not feed table scraps.
- **Exercise regularly.** Daily exercise supports healthy digestion and weight management.
- **Provide fresh water at all times.** Dehydration can worsen constipation and other digestive issues.
- **Maintain a regular feeding schedule.** Dogs thrive on routine.
- **Consider a slow feeder bowl.** If your dog eats too fast, a slow feeder or a puzzle toy can help prevent gulping and reduce the risk of bloat.
## Prognosis and Long-Term Management
The prognosis for a Norwegian Elkhound with a sensitive stomach is generally excellent with proper management. Most dogs respond well to a combination of dietary modification, regular feeding schedules, and weight management. For dogs with food allergies, identifying and avoiding the trigger protein can lead to complete resolution of signs.
For dogs with chronic conditions like IBD or EPI, long-term management is needed, but many dogs live happy, comfortable lives with appropriate treatment. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor the condition and adjust treatment as needed.
The key to long-term success is consistency. Once you find a diet and feeding schedule that works, stick with it. Avoid the temptation to give "just one bite" of human food, as this can trigger a relapse.
## Limitations and When to Contact a Veterinarian
This guide provides general information based on veterinary science and breed characteristics. It cannot predict the specific needs of your individual dog. Breed-level information is a starting point, but every dog is unique. Factors such as genetics, environment, and existing health conditions all influence nutritional needs.
**Contact your veterinarian immediately if your Elkhound shows any of these red flags:**
- **Vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours**
- **Blood in vomit or stool (bright red or black, tarry)**
- **Lethargy or weakness**
- **Loss of appetite for more than 24 hours**
- **Abdominal pain or distension**
- **Difficulty breathing**
- **Seizures**
- **Collapse or inability to stand**
- **Known ingestion of a toxic substance**
These signs can indicate a serious medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. Do not wait to see if your dog improves.
## Frequently Asked Questions
**1. How many calories does a Norwegian Elkhound need per day?**
An adult Norwegian Elkhound typically needs 900 to 1,400 calories per day, depending on age, neuter status, and activity level, with active dogs requiring more and sedentary dogs requiring less.
**2. What is the best diet for a Norwegian Elkhound with a sensitive stomach?**
A highly digestible, limited-ingredient diet with a single novel protein source and moderate fat content, such as a veterinary gastrointestinal or hydrolyzed protein diet, is often the best choice for a sensitive stomach.
**3. How often should I feed my Norwegian Elkhound?**
Feed an adult Elkhound two meals per day, and a puppy three to four meals per day, as this schedule supports stable digestion and may reduce the risk of bloat.
**4. Can I give my Norwegian Elkhound human food?**
Some human foods like plain boiled chicken and white rice are safe for short-term digestive upset, but many human foods are toxic, so always consult your veterinarian before offering anything from your plate.
**5. How do I know if my Norwegian Elkhound is overweight?**
You should be able to feel your dog's ribs easily without pressing hard, and there should be a visible waist when viewed from above; if you cannot feel the ribs, your dog is likely overweight.
**6. What are the signs of a food allergy in a Norwegian Elkhound?**
Signs of a food allergy include itchy skin, ear infections, chronic diarrhoea, vomiting, and flatulence, and a veterinary elimination diet trial is needed for diagnosis.
**7. Is it safe to switch my Norwegian Elkhound's food suddenly?**
No, you should transition to a new food gradually over 7 to 10 days, mixing increasing amounts of the new food with the old food to prevent digestive upset.
**8. What should I do if my Norwegian Elkhound is vomiting bile in the morning?**
Vomiting bile on an empty stomach is common, and you can try giving a small meal or treat right before bedtime, but if it persists or is accompanied by other signs, contact your veterinarian.
## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides
* [What Does It Mean When A Cat Throws Up Undigested Food](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/nutrition/what-does-it-mean-when-a-cat-throws-up-undigested-food)
* [Tibetan Terrier Feeding Guide: Calorie Targets and Sensitive Stomach Diet Plans](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/nutrition/tibetan-terrier-feeding-guide-calorie-targets-and-sensitive-stomach-diet-plans)
* [Hydrolyzed Protein Diet Dogs](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/nutrition/hydrolyzed-protein-diet-dogs)