The Halden is one of three Norwegian hare hound breeds, and is the smallest in size. Bred for scent hunting, the breed is believed to have been developed through crossing local Norwegian scenthounds with scenthounds from Sweden, Germany, and England. It was first developed in the early 1900s, and the breed standard was established in the 1950s. The Halden is relatively rare, seldom seen outside Norway.

The Haldens have smooth, very dense coats, hanging ears, and are white with black patches as well as brown shading on the head and legs. They are strong dogs with rectangular bodies and straight, solid backs. The tail is fairly thick, carried low, and hangs down toward the hocks. The skull is slightly domed with a pronounced stop and a straight nose bridge. The cheeks are flat. The ears are pendulous and curled, and the eyes are dark brown and kind. The nose is black. Breeders of Haldens aim for a particular foot shape, with high, tight, long toes and dense fur, for greater stability and warmth as the terrain they hunt through is often snowy and difficult to navigate.