Karelian Bear Dog : Puppies, Information, Feeding & Grooming

Good points

Brave
Fine hunter
Hardy
Loyal to its owner

Take heed

Does not get on with other dogs
Unsuitable as a family pet

The Karelian Bear Dog is a sturdy hunter of bear and elk. It is a brave dog, loyal to its master. It does not get on with other dogs and can not, ideally, be recommended as a family pet.

Size

Height at shoulder: 21-24in (53-61cm) for dogs, 19-21in (48-53cm) for bitches

Exercise

Needs plenty of exercise to stay in a healthy condition.

Grooming

Frequent brushing will keep the coat in good condition.

Feeding

Recommended would be 13-200z (369-587g) of a branded, meaty product with biscuit added in equal part by volume, or 13,,0,-3 cupfuls of a dry food, complete diet, mixed In the proportion of 1 cup of feed to '12 cup of hot or cold water.

Origin and history

The Karellan Bear Dog is a Spitz belonging to the Russian breed of Laikas, but this type evolved in Finland. It is known throughout Scandinavia as a fearless hunter of bear and elk. (The Russians decreed, in 1947, that only four distinct types of Spitz should in the future be referred to as Laikas, and these are neither known nor exported outside the USSR.)

SHOW STANDARD

General appearance. The Karelian Bear Dog is an athletic and imposing dog, of robust build, strong and slightly longer than high; it has a thick coat, cocked ears and an introverted nature, and is brave and persistent. Its senses, particularly that of scent, are keen, and it is admirably adapted to big game hunting.

Color. Black, preferably slightly brownish or dull, mostly with white markings or spots on the head, neck, chest, belly and legs.

Head. Shaped like a blunt wedge, fairly broad at the forehead and cheeks. Forehead slightly arched; stop gently sloping; slight protuberance above the eyes. The muzzle is high and its bridge is preferably straight, tapering slightly only towards the nose. Nose black and well developed.

Tail. Of medium length, usually arched; a full arch is most desirable. Feet. Hind feet slightly longer than forefeet. Paws thick, high and roundish: those of a born hunter