Irish Bostetter vs Karelian Bear Dog Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Boston Irish or KBD?

Compare the Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Boston Irish or a KBD? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

Boston Irish

KBD, Karjalankarhukoira, Karelsk Björnhund

Weight

What is the average weight of Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog?

17.5 pounds ( 8 kg )

47.0 pounds ( 21 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog

14.0 inches ( 35.6 cm )

22.0 inches ( 55.9 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Irish Bostetters or Karelian Bear Dogs hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Irish Bostetter nor Karelian Bear Dog are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog dogs?

Playful
Independent
Energetic
Intelligent
Friendly
Affectionate
Lively
Gentle
Aggressive
Companionable

Brave
Loyal
Tenacious
Cautious
Independent
Territorial

Shedding Level

Do Irish Bostetters shed more than Karelian Bear Dogs, or which breed sheds more, Irish Bostetters or Karelian Bear Dogs?

Irish Bostetter or Karelian Bear Dog dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Irish Bostetter or Karelian Bear Dog. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.

Origin

What is the origin of Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog dog breeds?

United States

Finland

Ancestry

What are the origins of Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog breeds?

Boston Terrier and Irish Setter

Spitz

Date of Birth

When were Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog breeds first developed?

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog dogs?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog?

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog breeds?

Brindle
Red
White
Black

Black
White

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog breeds?

Irish Bostetters have medium-length coats.

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

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog?

Wavy

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog?

7-10 puppies per pregnancy

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.

10-12 puppies per pregnancy

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.

Adaptability

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.

Health Issues

Between Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog, which breed is more prone to health problems?

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.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog breeds?

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

Cataracts
Hip Dysplasia
Periodontal Disease
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog?

Cataract
Megaesophagus
Hypothyroidism
Osteochondritis Dissecans
Corneal Ulcer
vonWillebrand’s Disease

Pituitary Dwarfism

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog breeds?

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

Social Needs

Irish Bostetter vs Karelian Bear Dog social needs comparison

Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog have very high social needs. These needs include regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Irish Bostetter or Karelian Bear Dog?

Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog dogs tend to sleep less than some other breeds, but it's still important for them to get adequate sleep in order to maintain good health.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Irish Bostetter vs Karelian Bear Dog?

Roaming urge

Irish Bostetter vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Irish Bostetter or Karelian Bear Dog - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Irish Bostetters or Karelian Bear Dogs?

Medium

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.

High

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.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Irish Bostetter or Karelian Bear Dog walk each week?

8 miles / week

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.

10 miles / week

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.

Activity per Day

Do Irish Bostetters or Karelian Bear Dogs require more exercise?

60 minutes

Both Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog typically require a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise each day. The exercise can be spread throughout the day and may involve high-energy activities like walking, running, and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Irish Bostetters or Karelian Bear Dogs?

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.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog dogs?

Weekly

Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog should be brushed at least once a week. Of course, you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Irish Bostetters and Karelian Bear Dogs?

Pin Brush
Dematter
Hemostat
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Irish Bostetter or Karelian Bear Dog in cups?

3 cups

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.

2.5 cups

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.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Irish Bostetter or Karelian Bear Dog?

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog have a similar average daily cost of around $1.70 - $2.00.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Irish Bostetter or Karelian Bear Dog?

$48 - $63 / month

When it comes to monthly expenses, both Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog have a similar average cost, ranging from $48 - $63. This results in an average yearly cost of around $576 - $756.

Sensitivity Level

How do Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog compare in sensitivity?

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.

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Irish Bostetter or Karelian Bear Dog?

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.

Child Friendly

Do Irish Bostetters or Karelian Bear Dogs have a friendlier temperament towards children?

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.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Irish Bostetter or Karelian Bear Dog?

Cat Friendly

Do Irish Bostetter or Karelian Bear Dog breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

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.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Irish Bostetter or Karelian Bear Dog?

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.

Pet friendly

How do Irish Bostetter or Karelian Bear Dog dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Irish Bostetter or Karelian Bear Dog?

Irish Bostetters are highly friendly around strangers.

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

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog?

Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog are playful dogs. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog is to make time each day to play. It can be as little as 15-20 minutes, and it will mean the world to them.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Irish Bostetters and Karelian Bear Dogs compare?

Irish Bostetter and Karelian Bear Dog dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.