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Home/Breeds/Karelian Bear Dog
medium breedvery-high energy

Karelian Bear Dog

Weight

44-50 lbs

Height

19-24 inches

Lifespan

11-13 years

Origin

Finland

Temperament

LoyalIndependentBrave

The Karelian Bear Dog is a Finnish spitz bred for hunting large game.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Karelian Bear Dog

Are Karelian Bear Dogs good family dogs?

Karelian Bear Dogs are challenging family dogs. They are loyal but aggressive toward other animals and need experienced owners.

Do Karelian Bear Dogs hunt bears?

Yes, Karelian Bear Dogs are used to hunt bears. They track and bay at bears until hunters arrive. They also help with bear aversion.

How much exercise does a Karelian Bear Dog need?

Karelian Bear Dogs need 1-2 hours of vigorous exercise daily. They are high-energy working dogs.

What health problems do Karelian Bear Dogs have?

Karelian Bear Dogs are healthy with few breed-specific issues. Hip dysplasia may occur.

How long do Karelian Bear Dogs live?

Karelian Bear Dogs typically live 11-13 years. They are hardy, healthy dogs.

Are Karelian Bear Dogs easy to train?

Karelian Bear Dogs are intelligent but extremely independent. They need experienced, confident handlers.

Do Karelian Bear Dogs shed?

Yes, Karelian Bear Dogs shed heavily, especially seasonally. Their thick double coat needs regular brushing.

How big do Karelian Bear Dogs get?

Karelian Bear Dogs weigh 44-50 pounds and stand 19-24 inches tall. They are medium-sized, sturdy dogs.

Are Karelian Bear Dogs aggressive?

Karelian Bear Dogs are aggressive toward other animals. They need careful management. They are loyal to family.

Are Karelian Bear Dogs good with other dogs?

Karelian Bear Dogs are often aggressive toward other dogs. They are best as the only dog.

Do Karelian Bear Dogs bark a lot?

Karelian Bear Dogs can be vocal, especially when hunting. They bark, bay, and howl.

Where do Karelian Bear Dogs come from?

Karelian Bear Dogs come from Finland and are used throughout Scandinavia and North America for bear management.

Are Karelian Bear Dogs good apartment dogs?

Karelian Bear Dogs are not suited for apartments. Their high energy and animal aggression require space.

Are Karelian Bear Dogs rare?

Karelian Bear Dogs are rare outside Finland. They are working dogs more than pets.

Are Karelian Bear Dogs good for first-time owners?

Karelian Bear Dogs are absolutely not for first-time owners. They require expert handling.

Explore More Breeds

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medium • high

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American Leopard Hound

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More Breeds from Finland

Finnish Hound

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Finnish Lapphund

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Finnish Spitz

medium • high

Lapponian Herder

medium • high

Breed Info

Grooming
moderate
Chewing
heavy
Activity
very-high
AKC Group
Foundation Stock

Common Health Issues

  • • Hip Dysplasia
  • • Eye Problems
  • • Seizures
  • • Allergies

Other Popular Breeds

  • Affenpinscher
  • Afghan Hound
  • Airedale Terrier
  • Akbash Dog
  • Akita