Dogs
Karelian Bear Dog
Other names: Karjalankarhukoira, Karelsk Björnhund, Karelian Bear Dog
hunting, guard dog
- Origin
- Finland
- Size
- Large
- Height · Male
- 54–60 cm
- Height · Female
- 49–55 cm
- Weight · Male
- 25–28 kg
- Weight · Female
- 17–20 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 years
- Litter
- 5–9 puppies
- FCI
- FCI group 5 · 5 · n.º 48
Traits
Activity
Social
Training
Guarding
Temperament
The Karelian Bear Dog is not recommended for inexperienced or first time dog owners. They are not a breed solely intended to be a pet. They will do okay with children and non-canine pets they have been raised with. The Karelian Bear Dog breed is exceedingly protective of thier family, home, and territory, and have a tendency to be aggrssive toward dogs and strangers. They are loyal, sensitive, intelligent, and independent. They are persistent, determined, and energetic.
History
The Komi dog, also called the dog of Zyrians, is considered to be the origin of the breed. However, the basic stock dogs originated from the Ladoga?s Karelia, Olonets and Russian Karelia , where they were used for all different types of game hunting. The breeding was started in 1936 with the goal to create a sturdy dog which barks at big game. The first standard was established in 1945. The first dogs were registred in 1946. Today the breed is common in Finland.
Care
Karelian Bear Dog's are not recommended for apartment living. They require an inordinate amount of physical exercise and mental stimulation. If they do not receive sufficient exercise and stimulation they will become destructive. The Karelian Bear Dog must have a securely fenced rural setting to roam freely. They thrive on running and hunting. This breed must be securely leashed and muzzled when in public.
Fenced yard, firm training, leash, outdoor activities, and socialization.
Health
Regular combing and brushing is recommended to remove loose and dead hair and minimize shedding. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary. It is important to routinely check the ears and paw pads for debris and maintain the nails. There are no known health issues associated with the Karelian Bear Dog.
Coat & grooming
This fur of this dog doesn't need too much grooming. An occasional combing for removing the dead hair bristles is enough. Like the other nordic, small dogs this dog hasn't the specific smell of dog.
Karelian Bear Dog breeders
All breeders →No verified breeders for this breed yet. Are you a breeder? Register.
Looking for more breeders? Ask the Clube Português de Canicultura (CPC) for the list of registered breeders of your breed. Visit, meet the parents and ask for health tests.
