Russian Bear Dog: Your Complete Guide

A breed known for its incredible jaw strength and fearless nature, the Russian bear dog is one of the best guard dogs around. Coming from the intersection of Asia and Europe in the Caucasus Mountains, the breed was not just made to protect herd animals but to hunt bears.

This impressive origin is where they got their name, not just because they look like a fluffier grizzly.

This breed may be impressive, but they also have a stubborn streak and a tendency towards aggression. Because of their (at times) antisocial nature, they are not for every person or walk of life. To better understand this massive breed, let’s take an extensive look at the Russian bear dog.

Quick Look at the Russian Bear Dog

Below is a quick glance at this special breed in terms of its physical characteristics, lifespan, temperament, and grooming needs.

What Is the History of Russian Bear Dogs?

The Russian bear dog came about in the 1920s as a breed to protect livestock and, at times, hunt bears. They were located in the Caucasus mountains, specifically in Georgia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Dagestan. However, similar breeds have been in the area for centuries, and the ancestors were similarly protective and vicious when needed.

The Russian bear dog we see today came from a mix of the differing bear dogs that had inhabited the mountainous region. Soviet breeders were looking for a guard dog with all the ideal traits of the differing guard dogs found in the various countries. Eventually, the adorable and monstrously-sized Russian bear dog was born.

The most significant contributor to the Russian bear dog we see today is from ancestors found in Georgia. The Russian bear dog (or Caucasian shepherd dog) had several shapes and sizes located throughout the mountains, though the Georgian breed was bigger and more muscular. Because of this, they were considered the ideal for breeders of the time.

They were accepted into the International Canine Federation in 1984 and have become popular amongst people looking for a fearless protector and, at times, fluffy companion. They are widely used throughout Russian prisons to be kept as guard dogs.

What Do Russian Bear Dogs Look Like?

The breed is a mass of fluff that hides a muscular and dense frame. Russian bear dogs get very large in size and shape, with some noticeable outliers reaching over two hundred pounds. While they’re undoubtedly intimidating, they are beautiful dogs with wonderfully thick coats, sad eyes, and varying color patterns.

The Russian bear dog rarely comes in one uniform color and will likely be a mixture of two to three color variations. The breed differs from litter to litter, though the usual colors are black, brown, fawn, cream, and white.

What Size Is a Russian Bear Dog?

When the name Russian bear dog hits your ears, you don’t often think of the toy group. The dogs are dense, muscular, and can get very tall in stature. This mass is by design, as their primary purpose is protection, and they are not meant primarily for companionship. A person considering getting a Russian bear dog should expect a huge dog with a hefty weight.

What Is a Russian Bear Dog’s Coat Type and Length?

Coming from a very frigid, cold climate, the Russian bear dog has developed a massive, fluffy coat of straight, rough hair in the outer layers. This does not mean that all will have the bear-like coats often depicted, and some can have short to medium-length fur.

Anyone planning on purchasing the large breed should expect a dog unaccustomed to warmer climates and will not do well in the hotter parts of the globe. They may struggle to contend with the hotter weather.

What Is a Russian Bear Dogs Temperament?

The Russian bear dog is not an ideal companion dog and will likely not be great among other dogs and people. They have a history of being utterly fearless, which can cause problems when exposed to unfamiliar animals or people.

They tend to be lazier by nature and can do well in more humble homes, though they must be interacted with and exercised to keep from getting bored and destructive. As for their ability to guard a home, they are excellent for what they were designed for and do not shy away from their responsibilities as a protector.

That said, they are incredibly stubborn at times, and although they are intelligent, that doesn’t mean they will always be willing to listen. Because of this, it is essential to train them early and often to ensure you don’t have a rebellious dog on your hands, particularly one as formidable as the Russian bear dog.

Are Russian Bear Dogs Good With Kids?

The Russian bear dog can be very sweet and protective around their immediate family, though they need to be introduced early in life because of their tendency towards aggression. A Russian bear dog that has had an entire life before being introduced to your children is only suitable for ownership if it has been extensively trained.

While they can be beneficial for people looking to keep their family safe, they can also be a nightmare if they become restless around one of your children. Similarly, they should be socialized at a young age around kids to avoid any incidents with neighborhood kids.

Are Russian Bear Dogs Good With Other Animals?

Depending on the animal, the Russian bear dog can be alright to have around other pets in the house. Smaller animals and dog breeds tend to do better with the Russian bear dog, while other similar-sized canines might have genuine issues around the dog. They are not great with other dogs and can often get aggressive if they are not adequately trained or are uniquely stubborn.

While they could learn to live and interact with other dogs, we would not recommend bringing one into a house if the other dogs are overly playful or aggressive. Owners will be putting in a lot of work and potentially breaking up fights they may be unable to stop.

Are Russian Bear Dogs Aggressive?

By design, the Russian bear dog can be unbelievably vicious. The bear dog was bred to take out anything it perceived as a genuine threat, and this can be a very problematic breed to have. Training for such a big, powerful dog is nothing short of a necessity. Owners in the market for a big, gentle giant should pursue other breeds, as the Russian bear dog does not fit the mold.

Do Russian Bear Dogs Bark?

The breed has a tremendous bark that is often used when alerted. However, they are not yappy or overly excitable, so it shouldn’t be incessant. Everyone will hear the sounds of their bass-filled bark, though, and people wanting a quiet house may wish to pursue other breeds. Like all breeds, early training and encouragement can calm the dog’s boisterous personality.

Are Russian Bear Dogs Affectionate?

While we have discussed how fierce the dog is, it does have a sweet side. They are not meant for lazy afternoons spent meandering on the patio, though they are calm and pleasant enough to join close family occasionally. They can become incredibly devoted to their owners and often express it tenderly.

They won’t follow you around morning, noon, and night, but they are a dog breed at the end of the day. Like all dogs, they enjoy the company and companionship of their humans. It is good to train them to be receptive to people outside your family, as they tend to be very hesitant towards new faces.

The Russian bear dog is not mean by nature; they are protective. They can become an irreplaceable family member if given a good home with proper training.

Are Russian Bear Dogs Intelligent?

They won’t be rounding out lists for smartest dog breeds anytime soon, though the Russian bear dog is not a dim breed. They are pretty intelligent dogs that can be taught and trained, even if they may be unwilling. The breed sits on the brighter side, though their bullheaded temperament might make getting them to listen difficult.

Are Russian Bear Dogs Energetic?

They tend to lounge around most days or wander aimlessly and do not need as much exercise as other breeds. That said, they will require some daily exercise to keep up their physical health and prevent them from growing destructive. The breed should always be kept on a leash and only released when in a controlled, fenced-in environment.

Around the house, they will likely do little, and this can lead people to think they do not require much playtime. While they won’t need hours outside, they should still receive regular time to exercise and expend their energy.

Are Russian Bear Dogs Easy to Train?

While they are intelligent enough to learn just about anything you could want from a dog, that does not mean they are open to the idea. Russian bear dogs have an independent streak and a  strong will. They will often have problems being obedient, and early training will pay dividends when they start looking like they could take your lunch money.

For prospective owners, try getting a dog that is either still a puppy or has been extensively trained as a guard dog. A Russian bear dog left to his own devices for too long and not trained around humans can be a nightmare when it comes time to make him sit and shake.

Are Russian Bear Dogs Good Watchdogs?

They are exceptional watchdogs and are expressly made for that purpose. They used to take down bears; they have a bite that outweighs a lion and a bark that can scare off any would-be intruders. If you are looking for a good breed to watch your house while you are away, you will struggle to find one better than the breed that guards Russian prisons.

Are Russian Bear Dogs Good Service Dogs?

There are instances of Russian bear dogs being used in service positions, though people looking for a service dog that will be entirely compliant should seek other breeds. They will regularly challenge their owner and, even with training, can prove obstinate.

However, they can be exceptionally sweet to their owners, and if you want a dog that can fit the guard dog role while offering emotional support, the Russian bear dog isn’t a bad choice. This comes with the caveat that training will always need to be undertaken for a breed this big, especially one so strong-willed.

How to Care for a Russian Bear Dog?

The Russian bear dog can be deceptively high-maintenance, with daily exercise requirements to avoid weight gain as well as moderate diet control. Their coat can prove problematic, and they have a breed tendency to leave a trail of tufts wherever they roam. Owners looking for a dog they can observe from afar should not get this breed; they will require regular work.

Do You Need to Groom a Russian Bear Dog?

The breed can vary in coat, though all variations will need a fair bit of grooming. For longer-haired bear dogs, daily grooming will keep some semblance of cleanliness in and around your furniture, while shorter hairs may get away with twice a week. All bear dogs will have a period where they shed very heavily throughout the year, so prepare accordingly.

Do Russian Bear Dogs Shed?

There are some cases of Russian bear dogs shedding far less than expected, though this is an outlier. On average, the breed will shed often, with intermittent periods of increased shedding that can wreak havoc on the inside of your home. The Russian bear dog is not a good choice for people concerned about allergies and will irritate the sinuses of those affected.

What Health Problems Do Russian Bear Dogs Have?

The Russian bear dog is a pretty healthy canine for such a massive breed. They are prone to weight issues if they grow sedentary or their diet gets away from their owner, though this is easily remedied by diligent upkeep.

The most prominent causes of health problems with the breed are:

• Weight Gain
• Hip Dysplasia
• Elbow Dysplasia
• Entropion (inward growing eyelids)
• Bloat

How Long Do Russian Bear Dogs Live?

Like their health, they tend to outlive other large breeds, though they will typically have lifespans of around 10 – 12 years. Proper exercise, a good diet, and genetics will all greatly affect their lifespan. Reputable breeders will have details regarding a dog’s family history and preexisting medical conditions.

What Should a Russian Bear Dog Eat?

Like almost all breeds, Russian bear dogs will have a changing need for diet as they grow and mature. Puppies should continue the diet they had with their previous owner or breeder until they develop to around half a year. Try to find good-quality dog food designed for the biggest breeds. Lower-quality food could cause medical issues and stomach problems down the road.

Avoid overfeeding and ensure they eat the amount recommended for their size and weight, as they could become obese from excessive food.

Is a Russian Bear Dog the Right Dog for Me?

The massive breed is an excellent watchdog that can be an incredible pet. However, they require a lot of work, and first-time owners may want to look towards a more agreeable breed. They are not ideal for people with other dogs and can make your house a nightmare for guests as they are very hesitant towards strangers.

Those willing to put the time into this pet will be rewarded with a guard dog that is second to none and a gorgeous dog that will show a softer side to those it gets close to. The Russian bear dog is not made to be a dog for companionship, however, and its primary purpose (protecting your home) should always remain the number one priority for anyone interested.