Not an expert on dog behavior but would like to offer a few suggestions--and you be the judge! But first will quote some info from my book about breeds. Although it is totally silent while tracking, the Elkhound is perhaps the most "talkative" dog of all. It has a whole vocabulary of sounds, each with a different meaning, and you will soon learn to recognize its way of telling you there are strangers about. (Of course your abused baby is not going to act like the normal average Elkhound but thought you might like to get some ideas on how to proceed, etc by knowing the breed's characteristics.) Temperment: While gentle and devoted to its owner, the Elkhound needs consistent training that is firm but never harsh. Although adaptable, it likes a set routine. And in a separate 'box' called Pet Facts: Fearless, intelligent, good-tempered; needs regular brushing; Regular, vigorous exercise; Adapts to urban living, but needs plenty of exercise; Good watchdog ----BE AWARE: Their thick coats require a lot of grooming.--With extra care when the dog is shedding its dense undercoat. At this time, the dead hair clings to the new hair and must be removed with a rubber brush designed for the task. Bathing is largely unnecessary. (unquote)
-----The words above 'likes a set routine' keeps going through my mind and I am wondering if you should not let the dog stay off by its self all day long. It might become a set habit that will be even harder to break later. And also the fact that she is depressed because of not having her puppies--Will leaving her alone make this matter worse? I think she needs some distraction and some loving gentle company to help her through this. Is your office pretty private--like mainly only you and no visitors (clients)? If so, I would think having her in there a good part of the day and not doting too much on her at first---Let her get comfortable with having you there but not too doting at first--no stress on her. Take her outside for a little while too--Would think it would be healthier physically and mentally to get her outside in some sunshine and not in a dark room and she needs some exercise. Use treats---Give a belly rub--Do something that she will like if you can. Do you have a friend that has a puppy---Maybe your dog would like having a puppy around at times too---Maybe borrow the puppy for an hour or so a day. And do things the same time and pretty much the same place everyday. Remember Elkhounds like a set routine. Lol, I suppose this is out of the question but if you had another dog--mainly a puppy for her to identify with and have as 'her puppy' it would probably help too. And if you thought about doing that--You could borrow a pup and see how she responds to it.
All in all--Do it slowly but I just have this feeling that in order to stay healthy--your dog needs more than just laying in a dark basement all day! | 
Gabby the rescue 
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