Karelian Bear Dog vs Cattle Shepherd Comparison. Which dog is better for you: KBD or German Heeler Shepherd?
Compare the Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a KBD or a German Heeler Shepherd? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you
Other names
KBD, Karjalankarhukoira, Karelsk Björnhund
German Heeler Shepherd, Working Shepherd
Weight
What is the average weight of Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd?
47.0 pounds
( 21 kg )
67.5 pounds
( 31 kg )
Height
What is the average height of Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd
22.0 inches
( 55.9 cm )
25.0 inches
( 63.5 cm )
Hypoallergenic
Are Karelian Bear Dogs or Cattle Shepherds hypoallergenic, or neither?
No
Unfortunately, neither Karelian Bear Dog nor Cattle Shepherd are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.
Temperament
What are the personalities of Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd dogs?
Do Karelian Bear Dogs shed more than Cattle Shepherds, or which breed sheds more, Karelian Bear Dogs or Cattle Shepherds?
Karelian Bear Dogs are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.
Cattle Shepherds are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.
Ancestry
What are the origins of Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd breeds?
Spitz
German Shepherd, Australian Cattle Dog
Date of Birth
When were Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd breeds first developed?
Unknown
2000's
Eye Color Possibilites
What are the eye colors of Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd dogs?
Brown
Blue Brown Amber
Nose Color Possibilites
What are the natural nose colors of Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd?
Black
Coat Color Possibilites
What are the natural colors of the coat for Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd breeds?
Black White
Brown Red Brindle Blue Black
Coat Length
What is the typical coat length for Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd breeds?
Karelian Bear Dogs have coats that can be either short or medium in length.
Cattle Shepherds have medium-length coats.
Coat Density
What is the density of the coat of Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd?
Coat Texture
What is the hair texture of Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd?
Straight
Litter Size
What is the usual litter size for Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd?
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.
6-10 puppies per pregnancy
A Cattle Shepherd can have a litter of 6-10 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.
Adaptability
Karelian Bear Dogs are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.
Cattle Shepherds are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.
Health Issues
Between Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd, which breed is more prone to health problems?
The Karelian Bear Dog is prone to health issues and requires regular check-ups with a vet to identify and treat any problems early.
Cattle Shepherds typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.
Major Concerns
What are the major health concerns for Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd breeds?
Cataracts Hip Dysplasia Periodontal Disease Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Hip Dysplasia Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Minor Concerns
What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd?
Pituitary Dwarfism
Deafness Flea Allergy
Occasional Tests
What occasional tests are recommended for Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd breeds?
OFA CERF Physical Examination
X-Rays Blood Count Ophthalmologic Examination Blood Work and Serum Chemistry Tests
Social Needs
Karelian Bear Dog vs Cattle Shepherd social needs comparison
Karelian Bear Dog has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.
Cattle Shepherd has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.
Sleeping Need
Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Karelian Bear Dog or Cattle Shepherd?
Karelian Bear Dogs sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.
Cattle Shepherds are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.
Mouthiness
Mouthiness Comparison: Karelian Bear Dog vs Cattle Shepherd?
Roaming urge
Karelian Bear Dog vs Labrador: Running away tendency?
Prey Drive
Karelian Bear Dog or Cattle Shepherd - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?
Activity Level
Which breed has higher energy, Karelian Bear Dogs or Cattle Shepherds?
High
Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd are high-energy dogs that require a lot of mental and physical exercise. Without proper stimulation and attention, these breeds can become problematic. If you're considering these breeds, be prepared to invest time and effort in their exercise and training.
Tolerance of being left alone
Walks per Week
How many miles should Karelian Bear Dog or Cattle Shepherd walk each week?
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.
14 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Cattle Shepherd, it's at least 14 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
Activity per Day
Do Karelian Bear Dogs or Cattle Shepherds require more exercise?
60 minutes
In general most Karelian Bear Dogs usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.
120 minutes
In general most Cattle Shepherds usually need at least 120 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.
Grooming
Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Karelian Bear Dogs or Cattle Shepherds?
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.
The Cattle Shepherd requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.
Brushing Frequency
What is the recommended brushing frequency for Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd dogs?
Weekly
Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd 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 Karelian Bear Dogs and Cattle Shepherds?
Pin Brush Comb Nail Clipper
Slicker Brush Comb Nail Clipper
Cups
How much food should be given to Karelian Bear Dog or Cattle Shepherd in cups?
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.
3 cups
For an average 45-80 pound (20 - 36 kg) Cattle Shepherd 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.
Daily Cost
Which breed has a higher daily cost, Karelian Bear Dog or Cattle Shepherd?
$1.70 - $2.00 / day
The average cost of a Karelian Bear Dog is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.
$2.10 - $2.70 / day
The average cost of a Cattle Shepherd is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.
Monthly Cost
Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Karelian Bear Dog or Cattle Shepherd?
$48 - $63 / month
The average per month expenses of a Karelian Bear Dog is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.
$55 - $73 / month
The average per month expenses of a Cattle Shepherd is between $55 - $73. This makes an average of $660 - $876 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.
Sensitivity Level
How do Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd compare in sensitivity?
This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.
This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.
Apartment Friendly
Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Karelian Bear Dog or Cattle Shepherd?
Karelian Bear Dogs can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.
Cattle Shepherds are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.
Child Friendly
Do Karelian Bear Dogs or Cattle Shepherds have a friendlier temperament towards children?
Karelian Bear Dogs have an average level of friendliness towards children.
Cattle Shepherds make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.
Senior-friendly
Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Karelian Bear Dog or Cattle Shepherd?
Cat Friendly
Do Karelian Bear Dog or Cattle Shepherd breeds have a better compatibility with cats?
Karelian Bear Dogs and Cattle Shepherds are an average cat friendly dog. They do well with cats, even more if raised together from puppyhood.
Dog Friendly
Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Karelian Bear Dog or Cattle Shepherd?
{Karelian Bear Dogs and Cattle Shepherds are average friendly towards other dogs. If they are raised with other dogs, they are likely to get along with them. And, if they are socialized properly from a young age, they will usually be great with other dogs.
Pet friendly
How do Karelian Bear Dog or Cattle Shepherd dogs interact with other pets?
Stranger Friendly
Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Karelian Bear Dog or Cattle Shepherd?
Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish, so early socialization is key to ensure they are comfortable around new people.
Playfulness
Which breed is more playful between Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd?
Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd are playful dogs. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for Karelian Bear Dog and Cattle Shepherd 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 Karelian Bear Dogs and Cattle Shepherds compare?
Karelian Bear Dogs are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.
The Cattle Shepherd is highly intelligent and eager to please, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced dog owners due to its easy trainability.
