Karelian bears, the northern wild boar dog breed
The Karelian Bear Dog (also known as the Karelian Bear Dog) is a breed native to Northern Europe, specifically the Karelia region, located between Finland and Russia. This breed was originally bred to hunt large prey, such as bears, elk, and wild boar, thanks to its courage, endurance, and agility.
Originally, dogs of this breed were used by the indigenous peoples of the area to hunt bears, which is why they have such a close relationship with this particular animal. They are working dogs that, in addition to being excellent hunters, have a great ability to work as a team with human hunters.
Characteristics of Karelian Bears
The Karelian Bear Dog is a medium-to-large dog with a robust and muscular build, ideal for tackling large prey. Its dense, black-and-white coat helps it adapt to the cold climates of its native region. Its ears are pointed, and its expression is alert, reflecting its watchful and alert nature.
Height: 50-60 cm at the withers.
Weight: 20-30 kg.
Coat: Dense and rough in texture, in shades ranging from white with black spots to black with white markings.
Life expectancy: Between 12 and 15 years.
Use of Karelian Bears in Hunting Drives in Spain
During wild boar drives in northern Spain, the Karelian bear plays a key role. In these enclosed areas, wild boars hide, making it very difficult to rouse them from their nests without the help of good dogs. Our friends and colleagues David Cotela, a hunter from the Aran Valley, and Óscar Mur, an expert in the Ordesa Mountains, have demonstrated how the Karelian bear is an essential ally in these hunts.
In the Aran Valley, David Cotela uses these dogs for their ability to track wild boars through steep slopes and dense forests. The dogs work as a team with hunters, locating the wild boars from great distances. The Karelian bear not only confronts the wild boar, but also keeps it at bay until the hunter can close in to hunt it.
Meanwhile, in the Ordesa Mountains, Óscar Mur also uses Karelian Bear Dogs in his hunts, taking advantage of their impressive working abilities in mountainous terrain. The dogs track wild boar and often face large watercresses that make their job difficult. Óscar combines this breed with others such as hounds and scenthounds, ensuring that his team doesn't leave a single wild boar in the bedding.
A dog used to scare away bears
A notable example of this use is the work done by the Wind River Bear Institute in the United States. Founded by Carrie Hunt in 1996, this institute trains Karelian Bear Dogs to act as "bear herders." These dogs are trained to scare away bears that approach populated areas, such as landfills or campsites, in a non-lethal manner, thus avoiding the need to euthanize the animals. Karelian Bear Dogs are also used in national parks such as Banff, Yosemite, and Glacier, and have proven effective in areas such as Washington, Nevada, and Alberta (Canada). The reason for their success lies in their natural hunting instinct, as bears perceive dogs as a threat because the canids can steal their cubs.
Image source: National Geographic
Karelian dogs have not only been instrumental in protecting bears in North America, but are also being used to protect polar bears in areas of Alaska and Canada, where diminishing sea ice has forced the bears closer to human habitats. This non-lethal and effective use has been vital in the preservation of these endangered species.
If you're a hunter looking for a loyal and efficient dog, the Karelian Bear Dog may be the perfect choice for you. Want to see them in action? Episode 4 of "Hunting Between Borders" is now available on Cazavisión, where David Cotela and his bears face off against the wild boars of the Aran Valley.
