HISTORY of KARELIAN BEAR DOGS


The Karelian Bear Dog, sometimes also known as the Karelian Bearhound, is a distinctive and attractive animal with a striking appearance. It has showy black and white markings similar to a Border Collie and is a member of the spitz family of dogs. It is fortunate that these dogs are also called "Bear Dogs" as the Finnish name is "Karjalankarhukoira". The Karelian Bear Dog is closely related to the Russian Laika breeds, however it is reported that the Karelian is more domesticated. As with most working dogs the Karelian Bear Dog is alert and active and requires regular attention and exercise.

The Karelian Bear Dog is an old breed, dating back at least to the time of Vikings. The name "Karelian" derives from the province Karelia of Finland a portion of which became a part of the USSR by treaty in 1941 following the "Winter War". Karelia is a land of forest and stream and for centuries the Bear Dogs have been a part of the family both as guard and hunter. The abundant big game included elk, deer and of course bears as well as numerous small game. The breed was offically recognized by the Finnish Kennel Club in 1935 and breed standards were established. World War II was difficult with Finland ceding territory to the USSR and therefore cutting off access to the breeding stock in Soviet Karelia. Some differences exist between Bear Dogs from North Karelia in Finland and Bear Dogs from Karelia. The Russians have in the past cross-bred the Bear Dogs with the Utchak sheep dog in an attempt to make a "super bear dog" with more courage, stamina and strength. This effort has been successful.

If you are interested in a Karelian Bear Dog
contact:

Sharon or Jim Potter at 250-790-2351
Fax 250-790-2359
e-mail: sjpotter@wlake.com



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