Karelian Bear Dog

Black and white. 

Harsh, straight topcoat. Soft and dense undercoat. 

Chestnut brown.

Medium sized spitz breed. Black fur covering the back and legs. Large white blaize on the chest. Small, compact head, pricked ears. Fluffy tail that curls upward. 

These independent dogs are not very affectionate, but they definitely enjoy being around their owners.

Although they’re lively and energetic, the Karelian Bear Dog is not interested in playing games. These dogs prefer to work and hunt. 

Full of energy and always on the move. Constantly exploring or investigating. This dog prefers to live near wide open spaces and likes to spend most of its time outside. 

A very intelligent dog with a strong and independent mind. 

A formidable hunting dog. Often works independently as it tracks large game and wild bears. Used all over the world as a hunting companion. 

A fearless dog. If great big bears can’t scare these dogs, then strangers definitely won’t. 

Although they often work independently, the Karelian is still very dependent on it’s master. They thrive off having a strong, but fair handler.

This powerful dog is highly prone to separation anxiety, so make sure they’re not left alone for long periods of time. 

This willful animal can be difficult to train. Highly intelligent dogs like the Karelian tend to get bored very quickly, especially if the training methods are dull and repetitive. 

A very quiet dog, even when they’re out on the hunt. Will only bark to attract the attention of the hunting party. 

There’s very little chance of this dog running away. They’re physically capable of doing so, but they also have a real desire to stay close to their owners. A very loyal dog.

Due to being prone to separation anxiety, the Karelian is also prone to destructive behaviour. If kept indoors for long periods of time, they’ll tear up carpets and destroy sofas. 

No issues with overeating.

As well as being an excellent hunter, the Karelian often doubles up as a guard dog. And it’s a job they do really well. This dog will deter burglars and home invaders.

An unwise choice for the first-time dog owner. The Karelian is a bold, strong-willed, and naturally aggressive animal. If you haven’t handled dogs before, adopting one that was bred to hunt bears is very irresponsible.

To put it simply, a flat is the worst possible environment in which to keep these dogs. Any owner who does so is putting the dog’s long-term health at risk.  

This dog needs around two hours of exercise every day. They also like to spend most of their time outside.

Can be an awkward travel companion. Tends to get restless and anxious during long journeys.

Because of it’s very high prey-drive, Karelian Bear dogs shouldn’t be kept alongside domestic cats. 

The Karelian gets on very well with other Karelian Bear dogs. They enjoy working closely together and form close bonds. Can be aggressive towards other breeds.

The Karelian Bear dog isn’t really a pet; it’s a working dog. Given the nature of their work, they can be confrontational. Not suitable for families with children. 

Elderly people could easily get overwhelmed by this independent, powerful dog. 

Heavy shedders during the spring months.

A very healthy and well-bred dog with a life expectancy of 11 to 13 years.

One of the toughest dog breeds. Strong, well-built, and very robust. 

Although they weren’t bred for warmer climates, these dogs support heat very well. They shed lots of hair during the spring, which helps keep them cool during summer.

They have a thick, double-layered coat that provides protection against the cold, the rain, and the wind. No problems surviving cold temperatures. 

As long as they are being fed within the recommended limits, the Karelian Bear Dog will maintain a healthy body-weight.

• Hip dysplasia
• Glaucoma
• Dental issues

The Karelian Bear Dog was developed by the Vikings of Scandinavia. Given the warrior culture of the ancient vikings, it’s easy to see why they prized this brave, strong, and extremely confident dog. Excavations of ancient sites showed that many Karelians were buried alongside their masters. The Norse culture believed the dogs would guide their masters through the underworld until they reached Valhalla, the Viking version of heaven. As well as being highly-revered in its native Finland, the Karelian has been exported to Canada, the USA, and even Japan. They provide vital assistance to hunters and gamekeepers who are tasked with maintaining the delicate balance of local ecosystems.