Courageous
Dignified
Calm

Playful
Agile
Alert
Intelligent
Obedient
Loyal
Quick
Strong
Willed
Bold
Bright
Sturdy

Carpathian Shepherds are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Elk-Kees shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

Carpathia

​United States

Unknown

Norwegian Elkhound and Keeshond

American Canine Registry
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
National Kennel Club

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Ancient Times

Unknown

Brown

Brown

Black

Black

Gray
Fawn

Black
Silver
Gray
Cream

Carpathian Shepherds have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Elk-Kees have short coats.

A Carpathian Shepherd can have a litter of 12-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

An Elk-Kee can have a litter of 5-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Carpathian Shepherds may have difficulty adjusting to changes in lifestyle and living environments, preferring consistency.

Elk-Kees are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Carpathian Shepherds are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

While the Elk-Kee breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Elbow Dysplasia
Canine Hip Dysplasia (Chd)
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat
Skeletal/Joint Conditions

Patellar Luxation
Fanconi Syndrome
Hip Dysplasia
Addison's Disease
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Entropion
Ectropion
Arthritis

Sebaceous Adenitis
Epilepsy
Diabetes
Von Willebrand's Disease
Hypothyroidism

Eye examination
Hip and Elbow X-rays

X-Rays
MRI
CT Scan
Physical Examination
Urinalysis
Complete Blood Work
Serum Chemistry
Spinal Tap
Neurologic Exam
Ophthalmic Examination

Carpathian Shepherds have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Elk-Kees sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Carpathian Shepherds are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Elk-Kees are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Carpathian Shepherd, it's at least 15 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Elk-Kee, it's at least 12 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

The Carpathian Shepherd has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

Elk-Kees require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

The average cost of a Carpathian Shepherd is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

The average cost of an Elk-Kee is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

The average per month expenses of a Carpathian Shepherd is between $55 - $73. This makes an average of $660 - $876 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of an Elk-Kee is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

The Carpathian Shepherd is not suitable for apartments and requires a large yard to thrive. Pent-up energy in small spaces can lead to destructive behavior.

Elk-Kees are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Carpathian Shepherds have an average level of friendliness towards children.

Elk-Kees are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Carpathian Shepherds are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

Elk-Kees are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Carpathian Shepherds are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Elk-Kees are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Carpathian Shepherds are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Elk-Kees are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Carpathian Shepherds are not known for being a highly playful breed.

Elk-Kees have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Carpathian Shepherds are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

Elk-Kees are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.