Karelian Bear Dog Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Karelian Bear Dog?

In past times, the Karelian Bear dog was used by Russian and Finnish families to protect their farms from bears and other predators, as well as for hunting large game such as elk, wild boars, and deer. To this day there are many parts of Scandinavia where the Karelian is used for hunting.

They are descended from the Finnish Spitz-type breed and are also said to share a genealogy with the Komi dog from North-East Russia. Around ten years its inception, the first dogs of the breed were registered with the Finnish Kennel Club.

Incredibly, after World War II, the Karelian was nearly wiped out. Fortunately though, 40 dogs were saved by the breed club, so every Karelian you see today is descended from those few lucky survivors.

While they are still not recognized by the American Kennel Club, Karelian Bear dogs are a beloved national treasure in the breed's native Finland. There, they are one of the top 10 common dog breeds, just missing out on first place to the Finnish Spitz.

Who are Karelian Bear Dog dogs best for?

Karelians are best suited to a home with older children and parents who have dealt with raising a puppy before. The bold nature in this breed's lineage that makes them so suited for big game hunting will also make them a tricky student to teach.

Early socialisation, obedience training as a puppy, and regular mental stimulation are required to show this dog that they don't need to be on the defensive as much as they think.

They are relatively large animals and would be best around older children who they are less likely to bump or knock over during playtime. Besides that they are loyal, loving dogs who will protect every member of the family the same.

They don't get on well with other dogs or animals and are best raised with other pets if done so from when they are puppies. Otherwise, their natural tendency to chase and subdue will get the better of them.

How much grooming does a Karelian Bear Dog need?

The Karelian Bear dog sheds throughout the year with two heavier seasonal spells in spring and autumn.

They will need to be brushed once a week and twice or more weekly during their heavier sheds to loosen dead hairs. Using grooming rakes, metal combs or bristle brushes are the best tools for maintaining their dense coat.

They aren't smelly dogs and will only need an occasional bath; 2-3 times a year should maintain a good sheen.

With a strong-willed dog like the Karelian Bear, grooming is a great opportunity to form a close physical bond with your dog. Grooming Karelian Bear dog puppies will bring you both closer to each other and help establish you as a caring authority in their eyes.

Their nails grow quickly and will need to be filed every fortnight so they don't split. Also, be sure to keep tabs on their ear canals as they will collect debris that should be cleaned. Curing a painful ear infection is always more complicated than preventing it.

Do Karelian Bear Dog bark much?

Due to their history of hunting aggressive game and bear control, the Karelian Bear Dog is a hard-wired guard dog that will alert you the instant they detect something new or strange in their territory such as a stranger or other animals.

They were not used as a silent hunter but instead, they would bark loudly to alert hunters to prey. This behaviour can carry over to the present day when they see other dogs or animals that they think shouldn't be there.

This instinct makes them excellent guard dogs of course, but you will want to train this instinct out of them to an extent or they'll be on alert mode all the time unnecessarily.

Do Karelian Bear Dog bite?

The Karelian Bear dog is extremely unlikely to bite a human. While they have been bred for hunting animals, they are deeply social and will only nip in a playful way or in a brief attempt to herd people.

If they display the latter behaviour don't be afraid to tell them off if undesired.

They are however known to bite other dogs and animals but only if they feel threatened or are hungry. Once again, it's important to get on top of these behaviours as early as possible as they are so ingrained into the Karelian Bear Dog personality.

What is the temperament & personality of a Karelian Bear Dog?

The qualities that make these dogs great big game hunters, while making them difficult, also make the Karelian Bear Dog a loyal and loving companion. At heart they are not aggressive animals - all they want is to protect you and your family.

They are energetic dogs that make great working companions, however, this excess of energy can leave them prone to separation anxiety. They are best off in homes where someone is home frequently enough that they don't become alarmed. And even better if there is a garden that can mess around in to expel this surplus of spirit.

What is the weight & size of a Karelian Bear Dog?

A Karelian Bear dog can weigh between 20-23kg when fully grown with an average weight of 21kg.

They will grow to between 48-58cm at the shoulder with an average height of 53cm.

How much training does a Karelian Bear Dog need?

This high-energy dog demands a firm, experienced hand when being trained. They are bred to handle big, powerful game and will need you to exhibit the right authority to bring this strong dog to heel.

They will need ample mental stimulation and enough exercise to deplete their considerable energy stores. They will need a minimum of 30 minutes of consistent exercise and 60 minutes of quality outdoor time daily to prevent them from getting bored and exhibiting anxious, undesirable behaviour.

Training must begin from an early age to condition them out of their die-hard habits. This might be difficult considering the cuteness of the Karelian Bear Dog puppy but don't let them lure you in. A solid discipline practice means a happier relationship for both you and your pooch. Dog sports are great for keeping this pup entertained.

What are some of the most common health issues for a Karelian Bear Dog?

The Karelian is a generally healthy dog with no remarkable hereditary health problems. However, as with any dog, it's worth looking out for hip dysplasia, cataracts, and obesity.

What is the lifespan of a Karelian Bear Dog?

If treated and cared for properly with the correct nutrition a Karelian Bear dog can have a life expectancy of between 10-12 years. Some owners report their dog's age reaching up to 4 years longer than the average expectancy.

How much should you feed a Karelian Bear Dog?

A Karelian Bear dog will tend to eat less than other medium-sized dogs but you should be looking to feed a full-grown dog between 2-2.5 cups of high-quality nutrition a day, half at breakfast and then again at dinner.

What is the price of a Karelian Bear Dog in Australia?

The Karelian Bear Dog is a rare breed, so you'll need to put a little effort in when seeking a breeder. Once you find one you can expect to pay between $1400-$1700.