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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Karelian Bear Dog
The Karelian Bear Dog is a medium-sized, sturdy, Spitz-type dog. The head is rather
large without appearing heavy or coarse. The triangular-shaped head is broad between
the ears and narrows towards the muzzle. The skull is broad and slightly arched.
The teeth should meet in a scissor bite. The nose is large and solid black. The
small eyes are oval in shape with an alert and fiery expression. Dark brown eyes
are preferred. The ears are erect, triangle-shaped and set on the outer edge of
the skull. The neck is muscular and covered with thick hair. The chest is moderately
wide. The Karelian Bear Dog may be born with a tail or a natural bob. If long, the
tail is carried in a loose curl over the back with the tip touching the back or
on either side of the body and is well-furred. This breed has a striking black coat
with sharp-edged white markings. The double coat has a coarse and straight outer
coat and the under coat is thick, soft and dense.
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Temperament
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The Karelian Bear Dog is reserved, stable and very devoted to its master. They have
strong hunting instincts. This breed is very dog aggressive, especially in its own
territory and is always willing to fight. They are fearless and will attack even
a bear without hesitation. They have a very keen sense of smell. Owners must be
capable of handling this powerful and forceful dog. Proper training and early socialization
is a must. They are affectionate towards people they know but strangers will be
treated coldly. They are a very protective breed.
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 21-24" ; Female Height: 19-21"
Weight: 45-55 lbs.
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Health Problems
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The Karelian Bear Dog is a hardy breed.
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Living Conditions
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The Karelian needs lots of room to run and should never be closed up indoors. They
will do best with a large yard or a fenced yard if in an urban setting. This breed
should be fenced and/or leashed any time they are outdoors.
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Exercise
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This breed needs lots of regular exercise to burn off energy.
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Life Expectancy
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About 10-12 years
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Grooming
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The Karelian should be brushed weekly with a metal comb. More attention is needed
when they are shedding. They have no doggie odor and are average shedders.
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Origin
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The Spitz-type dog evolved into several different breeds, each performing a certain
task essential to the survival of man and dog. The Karelian Bear Dog was primarily
used to hunt bear, elk and other big game. They are not pack animals, hunting alone
and silently. Nearly extinct by the 1930s, the breed was revived by the Finnish
Kennel Club and was recognized by the FCI in 1945. Today, the Karelian Bear Dog
is one of the most highly regarded breed in its native land of Finland. The Karelian
was recognized by the UKC in 1996 and have been accepted for recording in the AKC
Foundation Stock Service®.
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Group
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AKC/FSS Working, UKC Northern
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