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Halden Hound
Hound breed from Halden, Norway
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Halden Hound
The Halden Hound is a medium-sized Norwegian scenthound with a short, dense coat. It is described as gentle, alert, intelligent, confident, and energetic. Bred for hare hunting in challenging terrain, it possesses speed and endurance. Its rectangular build and proud yet gentle expression are notable. The breed's recognition status varies by registry, and its origins are in Halden, Norway.
Quick facts
Halden Hound at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHound
OriginHalden, Norway
Lifespan12–14 years
Male weight23–29 kilogram
Female weight23–29 kilogram
Male height51–60 centimetre
Female height51–60 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Halden Hound was developed in Halden, Norway, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was created by crossing local scenthounds with English, Swedish, and German hounds. The goal was to produce a swift, resilient hare hunter suited for Norwegian terrain. The breed is recognized by the FCI, but recognition status varies by other registries. The exact timeline and details of its development are not fully documented, and some historical claims may be uncertain.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
23–29 kilogramAdult weight51–60 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesShortCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Gentlealertintelligentconfidentenergetic
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Halden Hound-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Halden Hound puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight23–29 kilogramAdult female weight23–29 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Halden Hound?
The Halden Hound is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult height ranges from 51 to 60 cm (both sexes), and weight ranges from 23 to 29 kg (both sexes). Estimated lifespan is 12 to 14 years. These are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the temperament of a Halden Hound?
The breed is described as gentle, alert, intelligent, confident, and energetic. Individual temperaments can vary, so not every dog will display all these traits equally.
How much exercise does a Halden Hound need?
The Halden Hound has a high energy level (score 4 out of 5), indicating a need for regular, vigorous exercise. It was bred for hare hunting, so activities that allow running and exploring are beneficial.
What are the grooming requirements?
Grooming needs are low (score 2 out of 5) due to its short coat. Shedding is moderate (score 3 out of 5). Regular brushing can help manage loose hair.
Is the Halden Hound good with children and other dogs?
Child suitability is rated 3 out of 5, and dog compatibility is also 3 out of 5, suggesting moderate compatibility. Individual temperament and socialization play a significant role.
Can a Halden Hound live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is low (score 2 out of 5). This breed likely needs space and a yard due to its energy and hunting instincts.
Where does the Halden Hound originate?
The breed originates from Halden, Norway. It was developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries by crossing local scenthounds with English, Swedish, and German hounds.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.