Karelian Bear Dog Breed Guide: Temperament, Diet, and Care

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Dog Breeds

Karelian Bear Dog

Origin

🇫🇮

Finland

Size

Medium Breed

Cost of buying

₹ 30,000 - ₹ 80,000

Life Expectancy

10-12 years

Ideal Space

House with backyard

Ideal Weather

-15º-25ºC

Life Expectancy

10-12 years

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹3,550

Basic Lifestyle

₹5,400

Premium Lifestyle

₹ 3,550 - ₹ 5,400

Cost of buying

₹ 30,000 - ₹ 80,000

Top 5 Traits

Athletic

Fearless

Intelligent

Loyal

Protective

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹3,550

₹5,400

₹ 3,550 - ₹ 5,400

Close up of a black and white Karelian Bear Dog with erect ears

Black and white Karelian Bear Dog with erect ears standing in green grass

Black and white Karelian Bear Dog with tongue out walks on green grass

by Happy Pet Team

Updated on 22nd Jul 2025

Introduction to the Karelian Bear Dog

Characteristics

Barking

Quiet

Loud

Temperament with Kids

Aggressive

Friendly

Playfulness

Silent

Very Playful

Friendliness

Not Friendly

Super Friendly

Compatibility with other dogs

Aggressive

Friendly

Need for attention

Independent

Very Needy

Monthly Expenses

Karelian Bear Dog’s Price Guide

Cost of buying

₹ 30,000 - ₹ 80,000

Prerequisites to pet a Karelian Bear Dog

Access to Groomer

Access to Veterinary

Appropriate Climate

Lifestyle Compatibility

Financial Capability

Shop or Adopt a Karelian Bear: Make the Right Choice!

Nutrition Care for the Karelian Bear Dog

Monthly Food Expenses

₹ 2,250 - ₹ 3,000

Calories per day

Puppies: 1500 kcal

Adults: 1000 kcal

Essential Nutrients

Protein

Fats

Carbohydrates

Fibre

Vitamins

Minerals

List of foods

Chicken

Dry Dog Food

Fresh Meat

Fresh Fish

Vegetables

Breakdown of Macro-nutrients

Best Foods for Karelian Bear Dogs

Foods to Avoid for Karelian Bear Dogs

Avoid anything with these ingredients

Alcohol

Almonds

Avocados

Cherries

Cinnamon

Coffee / Tea

Dairy

Fruit seeds

Lemon

Grapes

Garlic

Milk Products

Mushrooms

Onions

Sugar

Salt

Healthcare for the Karelian Bear Dog

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹ 600 - ₹ 1,200

Common Health Issues

Bloat

Hip Dysplasia

Canine Influenza

Parasites

Leptospirosis

Lyme disease

Heartworm

Kennel Cough

Well being

Exercise

Agility Training

Bonding

Games

Socialization

Energy Level

High

Exercise routine

90 - 90 minutes

Recognising Stress

Changes in appetite

Excessive Barking

Pacing

Excessive Panting

Reluctance to move

Increased laziness

Common health Issues Found in Karelian Bear Dogs

Vaccination details

Growth Stage

Core Vaccines

6-8 Weeks

Distemper, Parvovirus, Leptospirosis, Kennel Cough

10-12 Weeks

Distemper, Parvovirus, Leptospirosis, Kennel Cough

14-16 Weeks

Distemper, Parvovirus, Leptospirosis, Kennel Cough

Annually

Rabies

Disclaimer : The list of vaccines shown above are meant to be used for reference only. We recommend that you consult a qualified veterinarian for proper knowledge and guidance on the subject of dog vaccines for your dog or puppy.

Senior Karelian Bear Dog Care

Karelian Bear Dog Grooming Routine

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹ 700 - ₹ 1,200

Shedding Level

Moderate Shedding

Hygienic Checklist

Bathing

Brushing

Ear Cleaning

Nail Trimming

Eye Care

Teeth Care

Benefits of Grooming

Low Shedding

Odourless

Cleanliness

Quality of life

Prevents infections

Prevents Bad Breath

Written by

Happy Pet Team

Author

Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content. Our contributors include experienced pet parents, dedicated fosters, stray dog community workers, seasoned vets, aquarists specializing in aquatic pet care, and bird caretakers who nurture and cultivate avian well-being. We also collaborate with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) in pet nutrition, behavior, exercise, and training to provide well-researched, practical guidance for pet owners. From cat lovers and dog trainers to bird enthusiasts and aquarium specialists, our diverse expertise helps every pet thrive. Whether you're looking for expert guidance or just a dose of pet-loving joy, Team Happy Pet is your go-to source for all things pets!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are Karelian Bear Dogs good with kids?

Yes, when socialised correctly, they can protect and be gentle with children, but they need to be watched heavily because of their size and predatory instinct.

Can they live in an apartment?

No. They require a lot of space, and they would be better suited to fenced home yards or rural homes.

Are Karelian Bear Dogs aggressive?

Not towards humans, however, they may be territorial towards other dogs and possess a high level of prey drive towards small creatures

Do they need professional training?

Yes. They are highly independent and strong willed and need early training and strong and experienced handling.