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FAQ's
What kind of dog is this?
Karelian Bear Dogs (KBD) are a rare breed in the United States. They are originally from Finland where they are regarded as a national treasure. In Finland and Russia they are most commonly used for hunting moose and elk although they will hunt any kind of animal. This dog will put a bear to flight or attack it with great pugnacity and will sacrifice its own life for its master. Its quick reflexes and fearless nature have made it very popular among country dwellers, outdoorsmen/women, hikers, hunters. It was the breed’s ability to hunt and offer protection against a bear that earned the breed its name.
How should they look?
The breed has a striking black and white coat. Preferably 70% black and 30% white. The bushy tail curls over the back in a ring and has a white tip which falls gently onto the dog’s back or to one side.
The dog should be in excellent physical condition.
How do they protect form Bears?
They are silent but tenacious hunters and only alert when they have the prey at bay. They will keep it there by barking in a very high, fast bark and running back and forth or around the animal. They have been known to hold an animal at bay for very long periods of time.
What is their temperament and social behavior?
KBD’s are very intelligent and self confident: courageous and persistent, yet slightly reserved. They are very loyal to their family and excellent with children. They love to play and be around people. They are very energetic, sensitive, independent and love the outdoors. They are very territorial and will alert their master to the presence of any strangers or other animals. KBD's are not aggressive towards people, therefore unsuitable as watch dogs.
Proper socialization and training is necessary as they demand proper authority and respect to work well with their master and other animals. Treating them harshly will cause them to mistrust so one must be firm but careful when working with them.
How do they get along with other dogs?
Often they tend to be aggressive towards other dogs but usually it is because they are very territorial or they feel threatened. If more than one live together there will be a hierarchy in the pack much like wolves. One will be the alpha dog or leader and the others will usually defer to him/her.
What is their average adult weight?
How should they be kept? Exercise Needs?
DO NOT CONFINE these dogs!!
This is not a dog that can be tied to a lead outside, kept in an apartment or never worked with. They are very social, outside hunting dogs and they need plenty of space to run free and get lots of exercise. If they get bored they will dig up the yard or try to get out to go hunting. You will not be a happy owner.
