Playful
Independent
Energetic
Intelligent
Friendly
Affectionate
Lively
Gentle
Aggressive
Companionable

Brave
Loyal
Tenacious
Cautious
Independent
Territorial

United States

Finland

Boston Terrier and Irish Setter

Spitz

Brown

Brown

Black

Black

Brindle
Red
White
Black

Black
White

Irish Bostetters have medium-length coats.

Karelian Bear Dogs have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Wavy

Straight

An Irish Bostetter can have a litter of 7-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Karelian Bear Dog can have a litter of 10-12 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Irish Bostetters are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Karelian Bear Dogs are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

While the Irish Bostetter breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

The Karelian Bear Dog is prone to health issues and requires regular check-ups with a vet to identify and treat any problems early.

Patellar Luxation
Gastric Torsion
Cherry Eye
Hip Dysplasia
Epilepsy
Brachycephalic Syndrome
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Cataracts
Hip Dysplasia
Periodontal Disease
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Cataract
Megaesophagus
Hypothyroidism
Osteochondritis Dissecans
Corneal Ulcer
vonWillebrand’s Disease

Pituitary Dwarfism

Physical Examination
Neurological Examination
Blood Tests
Blood Work
Internal Imaging (x-ray, CT scan, MRI, etc.)
Blood And Urine Analysis
Buccal Mucosal Screening
Orthopedic Exam
Ocular Exam
Hormone Analysis

OFA
CERF
Physical Examination

Irish Bostetters are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Karelian Bear Dogs are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Irish Bostetter, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Karelian Bear Dog, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

The Irish Bostetter requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Karelian Bear Dogs require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

Pin Brush
Dematter
Hemostat
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

For an average 35-45 pound (16 - 20 kg) Irish Bostetter feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 44-51 pound (20 - 23 kg) Karelian Bear Dog feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Irish Bostetters are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Karelian Bear Dogs can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

Irish Bostetters make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Karelian Bear Dogs have an average level of friendliness towards children.

Irish Bostetters are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

Karelian Bear Dogs are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Irish Bostetters are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

Karelian Bear Dogs are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Irish Bostetters are highly friendly around strangers.

Karelian Bear Dogs are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.