Karelian Bear Dog

Also called Karelsk Björnhund and Karjalankarhukoira

  • Better with older children
  • Needs space
  • Needs lots of exercise
  • Sheds a lot
  • Hard to train
  • Best as the only dog

The Karelian Bear Dog is a medium-sized breed that originated in Finland. They have a thick, double coat, and come in a variety of colors. They are an active and energetic breed, and need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They are loyal and devoted to their owners, and make good family companions. They are also excellent guard dogs, and are known for their bravery and courage.

Weight
37–62 lb (17–28 kg)
Height at the shoulder
19–24 in (49–60 cm)
Life span
10–13 years
Exercise
About 90 minutes a day
Coat
Short, Double
Origin
Karelia, Finland

Traits

Family and friends

  • Children: Better with older children
  • Other dogs: Prefers to be the only dog
  • Strangers: Reserved with strangers

Home and activity

  • Energy: Very energetic
  • Apartment living: Not suited to apartments
  • Barking: Barks sometimes
  • Training: Hard to train

Care

  • Grooming: Little grooming
  • Shedding: Sheds a lot
  • Drooling: Hardly drools

Temperament

Bold Courageous Independent Reserved with strangers Tenacious hunter Territorial

Coat colours

Black and black with white markings

Males and females

MeasureMalesFemales
Weight 55–62 lb (25–28 kg) 37–44 lb (17–20 kg)
Height 21–24 in (54–60 cm) 19–22 in (49–55 cm)

Recognized by

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and United Kennel Club (UKC)


Caring for a Karelian Bear Dog

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Veterinarians

Check-ups and vaccinations through its 10–13 years.

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Dog walkers

Needs about 90 minutes of exercise a day.

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Dog trainers

Can be stubborn: a trainer helps from the start.

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Pet sitters

Someone to look after it while you’re away.

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Breeds of a similar size

All medium breeds
An American Leopard Hound
Medium

American Leopard Hound

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  • Weight:35–75 lb (16–34 kg)
  • Life span:12–15 years
An Australian Kelpie
Medium

Australian Kelpie

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  • Weight:24–44 lb (11–20 kg)
  • Life span:12–14 years

Sources

Breed details from The Dog API (opens in a new tab).