Karelian Bear Dog Breed Description

Introduction

This breed originated near the borders of Russia and Finland, where farmers use it to hunt a variety of game. The Karelian Bear's short, thick coat is in all-black or black with white markings. It can weigh up to 65 lbs and measure 24 inches in height . It is not recommended as a house dog or for life in a city setting, as it requires a lot of open space to roam. These dogs have a good sense of humor and are sensitive, independent, intelligent and energetic. They are very loyal and make good companions and watchdogs. Persistent and powerful, an owner must be capable of handling these dogs. Proper training and socialization are absolute musts. Bear Dogs have small appetites for their size. Exercise at least one hour a day or they tend to become destructive. Grooming needs are minimal. Like other Artic dogs, they have no doggie odor. These dogs weigh 44 to 50 lbs. and stand 19 to 23" at the shoulders.

History

Karelian Bear Dogs earned part of their name by their behavior: these animals are hunters and guards of an extremely tough nature, and they will attack and either run off or kill a bear without hesitation and with no thought of the risk to themselves. They will protect their master with the same tenacity. Karelia is in the northern-most part of today’s Russia.

This is an ancient breed, similar to those in northern lands as far back as the Neolithic era. They belong to the Spitz type of dog, with the characteristic tail curled over their back that denotes members of that family tree. These dogs have changed little – if at all – down through the centuries. They are recognized as a primitive breed, meaning that although they are domesticated dogs, they retain the traits of their ancestors.

Separate breed standards in Finland and Russia produced different strains of Karelian Bear Dogs in each country. The Finnish standard called for a black dog with white chest and head markings. Breeding out random traits that had resulted from imported dogs mating with the native Karelians, the Finns succeeded in restoring the breed to its original form. The Finnish AKC recognized the breed in 1946. The Karelian Bear Dog is one of Finland’s most popular dogs (routinely ranking in the top 10 nationally), yet it is a recent newcomer to the US, beginning there in 1991 with the importation of two dogs that were then bred by Dr. Sushanov. These two dogs became the ancestor of many of the American and Canadian Karelians today.

The Russian breeders focused on the red-grey strain of these dogs and those became known as the West Siberian Laika; the black and white variety became known as the Russo-European Laika. There was no difference between these two breeds and the Karelian Bear Dog early on, but as breeding became more focused in each country over the past century, there are now distinguishing traits that separate them from one another.

General Description

The Karelian's head is a blunt wedge. Erect triangular ears set high and wide, pointing slightly outward. These are densely furred inside and out, a trait that evolved to prevent frostbite in the northern lands that were this breed’s native home. Eyes are small and generally express intelligence and concentration. They are noted for their powerful jaws. Overall the dog is rectangular in silhouette, somewhat longer than tall. They are medium sized with average bone structure (aside from those amazing jaws).

Like most Spitz-type dogs, the Karelian is double-coated. The top coat is straight stiff fur that sheds most dirt and protects against claw and tooth. The undercoat is dense and soft, providing complete insulation from all climate conditions. Karelians are black dogs with white markings, most often on the head and chest. Front legs may be white, or have white 'stockings'.

Temperament

Karelians are independent dogs with above-average intelligence. They have two specific and constant needs: exercise and challenges. Can they be a house pet? Certainly, but only if their family setting provides those two necessary components every single day. Training and socialization must start early and both must be undertaken with a combination of firmness and respect. Karelians were man’s hunting dog in the frozen North lands for centuries, going where man could not, pursuing animals man could not take down on his own. Today’s dogs have all those abilities and traits: they are problem solvers and independent thinkers. Many Karelians are used in search and rescue work, where these skills make them valuable team members. Others compete in skill and agility trials very successfully. They do not tend to do well in apartments, faring better with constant outside access and activity. Generally they are silent hunters, leaving the barking and baying to hounds.

Health and Care

Karelians needs very little grooming beyond teeth brushing and the occasional comb out of dirt or debris in their fur. They will blow their undercoat periodically, as do most Spitz breeds; combing during that process will help. Bathe only when absolutely necessary.

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