Karelian Bear Dog — size comparison

The Karelian Bear Dog is a powerful spitz with black-and-white fur, erect ears and a tail curled over its back. White markings usually occur on the head, neck, chest and legs. It has an athletic build and dense hair with undercoat. Its attentive gaze and free movement suit a dog developed for independent woodland travel.

It descends from Karelian hunting dogs. Planned breeding began in Finland in 1936, the first standard was drawn up in 1945 and the first dogs were registered the following year. Its task was finding large game, including moose and bears, and announcing their location by barking. Keen smell, orientation and persistence in maintaining contact with game were valued.

It is courageous, determined and highly independent. It can be devoted to familiar people but often initially watches strangers with reserve. Game movement and scent may arouse particularly strong interest. Confidence can also appear in relations with other dogs, especially males.

Measurement sources

• Wzorzec, wysokość i masa — FCI
• Dodatkowe odniesienie wymiarów — Dimensions
• AKC — długość życia, pielęgnacja i historia