The Karelian’s major population density is in Karelia, a part of Europe less recognized. The Karelian is a breed meant for people who mean business. This breed is for people who have tonnes of experience and require a resourceful breed. If you want a family breed, then look for another breed.
Why? We’ll say it again; this breed means business. It’s a breed meant for hunting. You can make a much better choice if you read more about it. Hopefully, it will clear things out for you.
Karelian Bear Dog History
First of all, the Karelian has been known with numerous names throughout its long history. Some of these names are Karelsk Bjornhund, Karelischer Barenhund, and KBD. Honestly, even the names sound scary. Nevertheless, the Karelian is an ancient breed. It is believed to be related to Spitz-type fighting dogs. The history of this breed, according to some experts, can be traced back to the early settlers of Finland.
The early ancestors of this breed could tackle and take down large game. Their prey even included bears. Unsurprisingly that prowess has been passed on to the current descendants. Bluntly put, they can still take down bears. This breed became popular first in 1936 in a show. Afterward, it has climbed up the popularity ladder without much resistance. They are currently in the Stock service of the AKC.
Karelian Bear Dog Characteristics
The Karelian is a smooth-looking breed. It has a slick, silky coat and a healthy, sharp face. It will usually have a long thing muzzle. Their jaws are the defining feature with superior gripping capabilities. The ears of the Karelian will be erect and pointed. You can expect the Karelian to have long legs. The coat of the Karelian will be long to medium length and will usually be black and white. Their coats are dense enough to withstand heavy snow and frigid temperatures.
How Big do Karelian Bear Dog Get
The males will be 21 to 24 inches tall and 44 to 51 lbs heavy. The females will be 19 to 22 inches tall and 44 to 51 lbs heavy. Don’t be fooled by the medium size of the Karelian; it packs quite a punch. A few more inches and would probably take down an Elephant.
How Long Does Karelian Bear Dog Live
We know that you would want your buddy to remain beside you forever, but we have to snap back to reality. The Karelian is mortal, and it will live between a particular range for its possible lifespan. That range, after careful consideration, has been calculated to be 10 to 12 years. The extent of this range depends on how much healthcare you are willing to give your buddy.
How Much Does a Karelian Bear Dog Cost
The Karelian is considered a rather rare breed. You will have to put in extra effort to find a breeder with this breed. When you do find a breeder, expect to pay big time. The figure that is widely accepted for it is between 1400 dollars and 1700 dollars. This figure may go up to 2000, depending on the health of your potential buddy. The cost afterward for medical bills and yearly expenditure can also rise to a few thousand dollars.
Karelian Bear Dog Temperament/Personality
The Karelian is a healthy breed with a fierce demeanor. It thrives in an efficient environment with no opposition. By opposition, we refer to other contenders for the place of a pet in your house. It will not go along well with small breeds. Small animals are constantly at risk from this bad boy/girl. The Karelian will also do best in households without children. You will have to socialize it from puppyhood.
Training the Karelian isn’t for the faint-hearted. You will have to devote a large chunk of your time to keep this breed in line. We recommend getting a Dog Training Book 100%, even if you are experienced. The Karelian requires firmness and consistency in its teachings.
Caring for Karelian Bear Dog
Every breed, irrespective of its disposition, requires love and care to survive. If you are thinking of getting the Karelian, you should know a few things about it.
Karelian Bear Dog Nutrition
Medium size means moderation in diet. You will have to give your buddy at least two to three cups of food every day. The best brands include Eukanuba Dog Food and Canidae Dog Food. More choices for foods are available in the Dog Food section. We recommend paying close attention to the diet that it receives; otherwise, obesity could come to haunt it.
How to Groom a Karelian Bear Dog
Like most breeds equipped for the cold, the Karelian will require grooming based on the conditions that it is living in. If you live in a warm region, then expect to brush its coat more often. Commonly brushing its coat once or twice per week with a premium quality Dog Brush will be enough. You will have to bathe it a few times in a year. Trim its nails after two weeks. Brush its teeth with some tasty canine toothpaste every other day.
Karelian Bear Dog Activity Levels
The Karelian is a highly active dog for its size. You will have to make sure that it gets at least an hour of daily activity. It would be best to be careful about how much you are keeping it inside and isolated. Long periods of separation are not good for this breed.
Caring for Karelian Bear Dog
The Karelian is an undemanding breed that does need a bit of extra care. First of all, you should keep the Karelian as close to yourself as possible. Secondly, please keep it away from the sun. Anything sun-related affects its health adversely. Finally, clean its ears. It doesn’t take much time, but it does save it a lot of pain.
Karelian Bear Dog Health
We have good news for you and this good doggie. The Karelian has an almost impenetrable defense. Rarely will you find conditions that dare to threaten or attack it. The worst that could come to haunt it is Obesity, Cataracts, PRA, and Joint problems. If you give your buddy the right nutrition, these conditions will not affect it in any way.
We would still recommend taking your buddy to the vet’s office as often as possible. Ideally, two visits per month should be enough. Please take care of your buddy, especially in his formative years, and never ignore his or her health.
Breeds Similar to Karelian Bear Dog
- Goberian
- Australian Shepherd
- Basselier
- West Siberian Laika
- Afador
Best Dog Food For Karelian Bear Dogs
The best dog food for Karelian Bear Dogs is Wellness CORE Ocean Whitefish, Herring & Salmon Recipe Dry Dog Food. Whitefish, herring meal, salmon, etc., are sea fishes that supply enormous omega fatty acids to the recipe. Its high-protein formula ensures leaner body mass and toned muscle.
- Available in three sizes of food bags, it is allergen-free.
- This poultry-free diet keeps the dog fit and boosts its metabolic rate.
- Its glucosamine, DHA, EPA, ARA, etc., supports brain function along with nourishment of vital organs.
Best Puppy Food For Karelian Bear Dogs
The best puppy food for Karelian Bear Dogs is Merrick Grain-Free Puppy Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food. The delicious and nutritionally balanced recipe contributes to teeth development in puppies. The food is packed with lentils, ground potatoes, pea fiber, etc.
- This iron-rich recipe makes sure steady blood circulation in the body.
- Its high amount of protein makes your Karelian Bear puppy stronger.
- Fortified with advanced nutrients, the recipe controls the urine amount and stool quality.
Best Dog Bed For Karelian Bear Dogs
The best dog bed for Karelian Bear Dogs is Precision Pet Products SnooZZy Round Shearling Bolster Dog Bed. This is the most flexible bed of your Karelian Bear Dog you will ever find. You can toss it in the washing machine, it survives dryer to wash, and you can spot clean it too.
- Designed for a soothing nap, the bed is round in shape, and it has a nice print on the top.
- Its cozy chenille cover helps the dog in falling asleep fast.
- Its thick edges are made of a polyfill, and these bolsters are eco-friendly.
Best Dog Crate For Karelian Bear Dogs
The best dog crate for Karelian Bear Dogs is EliteField 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate. The grey-colored covered crate is a portable one, and it is best for car rides. Its fleece mattress makes the interior more comfortable for your Karelian Bear Dog.
- The top door and two carrying handles are there for your convenience.
- The manufacturers make eleven colors for this model.
- Its water-resistant base makes the entire crate non-skid.
Best Dog Harness For Karelian Bear Dogs
The best dog harness for Karelian Bear Dogs is Best Pet Supplies Voyager Black Trim Mesh Dog Harness. Due to its unique print and vest-shape, the harness looks lovely on your Karelian Bear Dog. All the rings, buckles, etc., are placed on the rear side of the harness.
- The mesh fabric doesn’t soak sweat or any kind of liquid, keeping it dry.
- The training harness opens on the back.
- It has weight distributive straps for a comfortable experience.
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