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Karelian Bear Dog
Working breed from Karelia Finland
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Karelian Bear Dog
The Karelian Bear Dog is a medium-sized, sturdily built spitz-type hunting dog with a distinctive black and white double coat. Bred for courage and tenacity in hunting large game, this breed is known for its courageous, independent, loyal, alert, and protective temperament. Individual dogs may vary in behavior. The breed's energy level is high (4 out of 5), and it requires regular exercise. Trainability is moderate (3 out of 5), and grooming needs are low (2 out of 5) despite a shedding score of 3. The Karelian Bear Dog is moderately suitable for children (3 out of 5) but less compatible with other dogs (2 out of 5) and not ideal for apartment living (2 out of 5). Estimated adult weight for both males and females is 20–23 kg, height 54–61 cm, and lifespan 11–13 years. All measurements are modelled estimates.
Quick facts
Karelian Bear Dog at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupWorking
OriginKarelia Finland
Lifespan11–13 years
Male weight20–23 kilogram
Female weight20–23 kilogram
Male height54–61 centimetre
Female height54–61 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Karelian Bear Dog originates from the Karelia region of Finland. It is an ancient breed developed from spitz-type dogs used for hunting large game. The breed was standardized in the 1930s and nearly became extinct after World War II but was saved by dedicated Finnish breeders. It is considered one of Finland's most prized national breeds. The breed's history is based on available sources; specific dates and events beyond these are not confirmed.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
20–23 kilogramAdult weight54–61 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesDouble coatCoat colorsBlack and whiteRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Courageousindependentloyalalertprotective
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Karelian Bear Dog-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Karelian Bear Dog puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight20–23 kilogramAdult female weight20–23 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Karelian Bear Dog?
The Karelian Bear Dog is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult weight is 20–23 kg for both males and females, and height is 54–61 cm. Estimated lifespan is 11–13 years. These are modelled estimates.
What is the temperament of a Karelian Bear Dog?
The breed is described as courageous, independent, loyal, alert, and protective. However, individual dogs may vary. They are moderately suitable for children (3 out of 5) but less compatible with other dogs (2 out of 5).
How much exercise does a Karelian Bear Dog need?
The breed has a high energy level (4 out of 5) and requires regular exercise. They are not ideal for apartment living (2 out of 5) and do best with space to move.
What are the grooming requirements for a Karelian Bear Dog?
Grooming needs are low (2 out of 5) despite a double coat that sheds moderately (shedding score 3 out of 5). Regular brushing is recommended.
Is a Karelian Bear Dog good for families with children?
The breed has a moderate child suitability rating (3 out of 5). While they can be loyal and protective, individual temperament varies, so supervision and proper introduction are important.
Where does the Karelian Bear Dog originate from?
The breed originates from the Karelia region of Finland. It was developed from spitz-type dogs used for hunting large game and is considered a prized national breed in Finland.
Is the Karelian Bear Dog recognized by major kennel clubs?
Recognition status varies by registry. The breed is recognized by some organizations, but not universally. Check with specific registries for their status.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.