"This is just me."

Aha! =) So, Brick is a Karelian bear dog! Yes, it is a very brave breed.

Yes indeed! He has chased one bear, but then was gone for three days. He has to be on a leash or inside a fence at all times or he will run and run for miles! Such an interesting breed, extremely rare in the US. A few forestry departments are using them for bear control where people live. They don't come back after being chased by a bear dog!

I've seen plenty of documents and videos about the bears coming too close to towns in US. I guess we Finns should export some KBDs there =D

Yes, you should! This Karjalankarhukoira was a rescue, found wandering in the woods, very skinny. We have no idea where he came from, but think he probably chased something (deer, or whatever) and never found his way back home. There are now a few breeders in the US, but still only about 300 of the dogs in the country. I hope they also import some from Finland to keep the gene pool healthy. This is the biggest team of working Karelians in the US: www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdM89zbxIg0

Wow, these eyes !
He knows everything about life !

He does seem that way. He is a very stoic dog, so he is relaxing to be with.

glad you got a photo of the ears before the racoon attack! they are so strong - and such knowing eyes.

noticed in 'naturey crap - crappy nature'