In the larger type of Elo, males reach a height at the withers of 50 to 60 centimetres and weigh a hefty 25 to 35 kilograms. Despite its imposing appearance, the Elo is not a hyperactive working dog but has a medium energy level (3 out of 5). It loves long daily walks and mental stimulation, but afterwards is calm and balanced in the house. Its sociability with other dogs is high, which usually makes encounters in the park relaxed.
However, don’t underestimate two breed-typical challenges in everyday life:
- An independent mind: Trainability is a solid 3 out of 5. The Elo has healthy self-confidence and questions pointless repetition. It needs loving but assured leadership with varied, motivating training rather than mindless drilling.
- Coat care: Its dense, medium-length coat with a pronounced undercoat protects it in any weather, but it sheds noticeably (level 3/5). Plan time several times a week for thorough brushing, especially during the moulting season, so that the undercoat doesn’t become matted.
The Elo can cope in a city flat, provided it is on the ground floor or there is a lift – when it is old or ill, you won’t be able to carry a dog weighing up to 35 kilograms up and down stairs. An ideal home has a securely fenced garden on the edge of town or in the countryside.
Your checklist for the first conversation with a breeder
Prepare well for your visit to the breeder and check the conditions on site carefully. These are the specific points that matter with the Elo:
- Inspect the official joint results: Ask to be shown the original X-ray evaluations for hip dysplasia (HD) and the examination report for patellar luxation for both parent dogs.
- Check for an up-to-date eye examination: Ask for the specialist vet’s report on eye abnormalities for the parent dogs and make sure the examination took place shortly before the mating.
- Breeding approval and pedigree papers: Ask to see the EZFG e.V. documents proving that the parent dogs have also passed the temperament assessment for breeding.
- Observe the mother and how the puppies are raised: See how the mother behaves with her puppies and with you as a visitor. She must come across as confident, friendly and resilient to stress – this is exactly what defines the Elo’s temperament.
- Ask questions about the line: Ask directly whether any joint or eye problems have occurred in previous litters or in close relatives of the parent dogs. A reputable breeder will answer this transparently.
On HonestDog, a breeder profile only goes online once the breeder has completed registration: identity verification by ID and selfie, where applicable proof of club membership or a §11 permit, a knowledge test on breeding and animal welfare, and agreement to the HonestDog breeding standards, which among other things rule out breeding with traits associated with extreme conformation. Any health test results for the parent dogs that breeders upload are shown directly in their profile; ask to see the original results when you visit. Your next step: compare the profiles of Elo breeders on HonestDog, look at the health certificates that have been uploaded and ask directly about the next litter.
