As we at California Karelians have conversations with folks from all over the country who are curious about the Karelian Bear Dog breed, we continue to be surprised by some of the strange presumptions that exist. It is understandable that not many people have had the opportunity to get to know this breed well. Yet much of what we hear represented as "truths" clearly don't make sense based on good dog handling principles, regardless of the breed being discussed.

Yes, Karelians are intelligent and known for their ability to think through a problem. Does that make them challenging to train? Yes, from the perspective that they were meant to be a dog that is faced with regular challenges, so teaching a Karelian basic and intermediate obedience provides them with sufficient challenge and helps keep them safe. Therefore, this breed is not for the beginner who does not have regular access to a good dog obedience instructor as a mentor. However, I (that's me on the left, above) have never trained a dog before I learned to train a Karelian, but with Bill's more experienced guidance (that's him in the middle), I can proudly show off my handling skills in dog obedience class. We have successfully placed Karelians with many active people who now tell us they can't imagine their lives without their Karelian.

Can Karelians be trusted with children and other family pets?

We have never known any of our dogs, at any age, to be other than curious and playful with children. Before we had Karelians, I was breeding Maine Coon cats, and our Karelians are gentle with the smallest of kittens. It appears to me that the Karelians instinctively know that children and family pets are part of the family, not threats against which they need to protect.

Are all Karelians equally suited as companion dogs? Or hunting dogs?

Of course not, just as not all Labrador Retrievers possess the same working aptitude. (Just as not all people are equally inclined for all careers.) Our job as breeders is to gain an understanding of why prospective owners are considering a Karelian. We then select the puppy or adult dog best suited to match their lifestyle and activities.

When can (or should) you start training a Karelian?

Just like any other breed of dog, the earlier you start the better. Socialization and "training" can begin as early as eight weeks of age. Playing "hide and seek" with your puppy in the house is a great way to make early training fun for both you and your Karelian. We don't put our pups on grass until they are ten weeks of age, at which time we gently start training them to walk on a leash.

How about an older puppy or young adult; are they trainable?

As with any breed of dog, older dogs may take longer to master new skills, and they may not be as motivated as a younger dog to learn complex skills. As with any breed of dog, training should be customized for the speed with which every individual dog is mastering the desired skills. We have personal experience rescuing a one-year-old purebred Karelian who learned her new name by the second day she was with us and trains along all our California Karelians. At two years of age is starting search and rescue exercises and loves it!

Where can I get more information on training my Karelian?

Beyond the basic information on this website, if you would like to send us an email or give us a call, we will gladly discuss share our knowledge and experiences.

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