Karelian Bear Dogs Used As Hazing Deterrent During Bear Release
Francis Xavier
If you release a nuisance bear back into the wild, you want to leave a lasting impression that future human contact is something to be avoided. Generally wildlife officers make a ton of racket and discharge firearms in the air but in Washington State, a very specific breed of dog plays a pivotal role in the process. Meet the Karelian Bear Team comprised of a pack of rough and tumble of Karelian Bear Dogs or KBDs. This rare breed of hunting dog originated in Finland and Russia called Karelia. Karelian Bear Dogs were bred to hunt a variety of big game animals including bears, moose, and wild boar. Their quick reflexes and fearless nature have proved invaluable to scaring the shit out of bears up in Washington in an effort to keep them away from civilization:
