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Dog Breed

Karelian Bear Dog

Breed Overview

Breed Name: Karelian Bear Dog

Origin: Finland / Russia

Breed Group: Working (AKC Foundation Stock Service)

Physical Characteristics

Size: Medium

Height: Male: 21–24 inches (53–61 cm), Female: 19–22 inches (48–56 cm)

Weight: Male: 44–50 lbs (20–23 kg), Female: 40–47 lbs (18–21 kg)

Coat Type: Thick, harsh, double coat

Coat Colors: Black with clearly defined white markings on chest, face, neck, legs, and tail tip

Grooming Needs: Moderate (weekly brushing; more during seasonal shedding)

Shedding: Moderate to High

Behavioral Traits

Temperament: Brave, alert, independent, loyal, intense

Intelligence Level: High

Energy Level: High

Health Information

Lifespan: 11–13 years

Common Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, eye problems (e.g., cataracts), obesity if under-exercised

Care

Nutrition Needs: High-quality, protein-rich diet for active working breeds

Exercise Needs: High – needs vigorous daily activity, open space, and mental stimulation

Space Requirements: Not suitable for apartments; needs a yard or rural setting

Noise Sensitivity: Moderate (can be vocal, especially when alerting)

Socialization and Training

Socialization Needs: High

Socialization Tips: Intelligent but independent—requires firm, consistent training from experienced handlers

Good with Children: No, often dog-aggressive

Good with Other Dogs: No, often dog-aggressive

Good with Other Pets: No, strong prey drive makes them unsafe around small animals

Training: Intelligent but independent—requires firm, consistent training from experienced handlers

Description

The Karelian Bear Dog is a fearless and highly driven hunting breed from Finland, originally developed to track and confront large game such as bear, moose, and wild boar. Known for their boldness, intense focus, and loyalty, they are excellent working dogs and dedicated guardians but are best suited for experienced handlers. Their short, weather-resistant double coat sheds heavily seasonally and needs regular brushing to manage the undercoat.

While intelligent, they are independent and strong-willed, so training must be firm, consistent, and rooted in respect. Karelian Bear Dogs need intense daily exercise and mental stimulation, and they typically do best in rural or working environments.

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History

Origin: The Karelian Bear Dog (Karjalankarhukoira) is an ancient Finnish breed that traces its ancestry back to the Stone Age. It was developed in the Karelia region, which spans parts of modern-day Finland and Russia. The breed's primary purpose was hunting large game, including bears, moose, and wolves, as well as smaller fur-bearing animals like squirrels and martens. Its name reflects its ability to hunt and distract bears, a skill highly valued by hunters.
Development: The breed was formally established in 1936 when Finnish breeders began selecting dogs with black-and-white coats and strong hunting instincts to create a standard. The first breed standard was adopted in 1945, and the Finnish Kennel Club officially recognized the Karelian Bear Dog in 1946. Its likely ancestor is the now-extinct Komi dog, a wolf-like spitz from northwestern Russia.
Global Spread: While the Karelian Bear Dog remains most popular in Finland, where it is considered a national treasure and one of the top 10 most common breeds, it has gained international recognition for its hunting abilities. In the United States, Canada, and Japan, it is used in wildlife management programs to reduce human-bear conflicts, particularly through initiatives like those of the Wind River Bear Institute.
Today, the Karelian Bear Dog is celebrated for its hunting prowess and loyalty as both a working dog and family companion. While rare outside Finland, it remains a symbol of Finnish heritage and continues to play important roles in wildlife conservation efforts globally.

Dog Breed

Karelian Bear Dog

Breed Overview

Physical Characteristics

Behavioral Traits

Health Information

Care

Socialization and Training

Description

History

Ideal Owner

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