The Alaskan Karelian bear Dogs are a breed that needs a purpose in life. The Alaskan Karelian Bear dog has a set of jaws that are immensely powerful he has a good sense of humor but he is no pushover. Extremely independent, intelligent, intense and sensitive, they are not a dog for everyone. A robust, persistent, and powerful dog, it is willing to take on virtually any game animal. The Alaskan Karelian Bear Dog is a hunter of unyielding bravery and determination. It will put a bear to flight or it will attack that same bear with an immense intensity! This is no coward! The true outdoors enthusiast and dedicated hunter can look to this hard working breed with delight and utter satisfaction. Owners must be capable of handling this very forceful canine. Proper training and socialization are absolute must. This dog stands about 19-23 inches and weighs 44-50 pounds.  
         
         
Just like a Labrador retriever is born nuts about ducks, The Alaskan Karelian enters the world with a keen sense for bears. Bear hunters have bred The Karelian bear dogs for centuries in eastern Finland and western Russia. A properly trained Karelian bear dog will guard homes, camps, and people by warming bears away.

The important thing to remember is that these dogs are not hounds that will run the bears for miles; these are guard dogs. They just want to get the bear out of there. A well-trained Karelian will be a valuable trail companion for Alaska hikers and other bear country outdoor enthusiasts. A Karelian at the heel of a hiker who suddenly encounters a bear feeding on a moose carcass will start barking. If barking doesn't scare the bear and the bear charges, the difference between other dogs and the Karelian is then apparent. The Karelian will run toward the bear. They're bred to guard, and to fight, the Karelian's strategy is to nip at a bear's backside. In dire, but rare situation when a bear charges, the Karelian will give its life for its owner.
However, the main goal is not for The Karelian to die fighting bears. It's to alert hikers and homeowners to a bear's presence and to warn bears away before they become a problem. Bear savvy is in their blood, not all Karelian's want to work bears. Expect this dog to be your partner in life, and give him a purpose in life and bond with your dog and continue its training according to your specific needs.

  
       
         

The Alaskan Karelian Bear Dogs are owned and bred in Canada, America and other European countries as well as Russia and Finland. Owners emphasize they are a working breed and must have plenty of exercise, and that the dogs are most happy when owned by an outdoor enthusiast. Most are housed outside to keep them acclimated to the colder temperatures. They are tough and independent, but from a strong bond with their owner. These characteristics make them a sharp guard dog. The breed is aggressive with other dogs and will fight an intruder-human or canine-to the death, if need be. The Karelian does not make a good pet for those unable to control him. Training, Socialization and leash control in public are advised early in his life.

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