Kathi Molloy is the breeder behind Highpoint Norwegian Elkhounds. Read about the kennel’s beginnings, the dogs, the puppies, and more!
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Kathi Molloy: I live in Hilton Head, South Carolina, with my husband, Bob. We found our first Norwegian Elkhound, “Prancer,” when we lived in Boston back in 1992. Then we got “Tellie,” and by 1997, we were ready to breed. The keeper in that litter, “Becky,” became our first bred-by champion.
Kathi Molloy: Our kennel name is Highpoint Norwegian Elkhounds, as back then, we lived in the highest point of a suburb just north of Boston. Here in Hilton Head Island, we currently live with our three Elkhounds:
In addition to these three, I also co-own four other Elkhounds that have all been shown in Conformation.
Kathi Molloy: Cliff is probably my best-known show dog. He was No. 1 All-Breed in Elkhounds back in 2019 and was handled by Paul Catterson to his Grand Champion Gold title.
Kathi Molloy: Our CH Highpoint’s Nike was a very typey and beautiful bitch, and a turning point in our breeding program. I still see her features in almost all the puppies we have had since then.
Kathi Molloy: All of our puppies are whelped and raised right in our family room adjacent to the kitchen. We have followed many of the Puppy Culture guidelines to help ensure that our puppies have a solid start on socialization.
Kathi Molloy: When trying to select for potential show puppies, I do follow much of Pat Hastings’ guidelines for choosing the best puppy for structure at eight weeks, but tend to keep them a little longer to assess movement. Breed features and type strongly weigh in the decision-making as well. Performance puppies and show puppies both need to be structurally sound.
Kathi Molloy: Recently, Pink has earned her Fast CAT title. She was No. 4 fastest in Elkhounds for 2022 and is No. 5 Lifetime to date.
Kathi Molloy: I think Conformation and Performance puppies all need to be structurally sound.
Kathi Molloy: Elkhounds need to be in good condition. It is way too easy to have an overweight Elkhound. They need to stay active with their owners to be in good weight and condition. They are bred to be a hardy, athletic dog and to trot all day in rough terrain for hunting.
Kathi Molloy: Elkhounds can be predisposed for potential renal issues and have had a higher incidence of hip dysplasia in the past. They also can be prone to sebaceous cysts. They don’t need a special diet, but adding an oil (like salmon oil) helps the coat.
Kathi Molloy: There are still quite a few preservation breeders in Elkhounds. The breed tends to have a greater percentage of breeder/owner-handlers than some of the other more popular breeds.
Kathi Molloy: Elkhounds make great family dogs. They are faithful guardians and love nothing better than to spend time with their family. The best candidates are usually active people who like to walk or do things with their dogs.
Kathi Molloy: People often mistake the Elkhound for another breed such as the Siberian Husky, German Shepherd Dog, or Keeshond.
Kathi Molloy: An Elkhound is a medium, square, athletic hunting dog. Its double coat is harsh and quick-drying, to withstand the elements. It needs enough leg to get through snow and rough terrain all day, with an effortless gait. Temperament needs to be bold and energetic, not shy.
Kathi Molloy: It is important as breeders that we socialize our Elkhounds well and early.
Kathi Molloy: One of our dogs treed a black bear. Not sure if amusing is the right word, but it was certainly memorable.
The best way to ensure a long and happy relationship with a purebred dog is to purchase one from a responsible breeder. Not sure where to begin finding a breeder?
Contact the National Parent Club’s Breeder Referral person, which you can find on the AKC Breeder Referral Contacts page.
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Showsight Magazine is the only publication to offer dedicated Digital Breed Magazines for ALL recognized AKC Breeds.
Read and learn more about the Norwegian Elkhound dog breed with articles and information in our Norwegian Elkhound Breed Magazine.
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