Orlovia
The Germanic Bear Dog is a relatively new dog breed from Germany that has not yet been recognized by the FCI or the VDH. Although the few first breeders of the breed advertise it as a “back-breeding of the primal dog of the old Germans”, its origin lies in the crossing of St. Bernards and Central European shepherd dogs. Find out everything about the many good character traits of the tall domestic and farm dog.
The Appearance of the Germanic Bear Dog
Germanic bear dogs are real giants: the minimum height for the withers is 65 centimeters (for bitches) or 70 centimeters (for males). If you count the massive head, they easily reach heights of over a meter. Bitches weigh between 35 and 70 kilograms, males weigh up to 85 kilograms, and are real heavyweights. The dogs are majestically built with intelligent and peaceful facial expressions. They can be distinguished from their close relatives primarily by their physique, the black mask on their faces, and the distinctive shape of their heads.
Characteristics of the Germanic bear dogs at a glance
- The broad and angular head is reminiscent of an Anatolian shepherd dog but is significantly rounder. The snout is relatively short compared to the skull, but not shortened like other Molossians. A straight scissor bite is common, but there are also a few specimens with a pincer bite.
- The almond eyes with a slightly triangular shape appear peaceful and sometimes a little worried in combination with the thick eyebrows.
- When excited, the dogs prick up their rounded floppy ears in a clearly visible manner.
- The bar and back are straight and give the dog its strong and enduring stature. He is well muscled in the back, shoulders, and thighs. The deep chest reaches about to the elbow.
- The broad tail is strong and not always controllable for the clumsy dogs: coffee tables are regularly cleared with the long and brush-like overgrown tail.
Hair texture and coat color
Germanic Bear Dogs are bred to come in numerous coat and color variations. There is no binding standard for the coat color, but the breed standard of the clubs responsible for breeding states that black masks and a small amount of white in the basic color of the coat are desirable. The length of the fur varies on different parts of the body: the legs, the lower belly line, and the underside of the tail are often long hairy, while the rest of the body has medium-length to long fur with a thick undercoat. Their dense fur makes the animals very winter-resistant and they don’t get cold even after hours of outdoor work.
Possible coat colors and markings
- Pure white coats and solid black dogs are not eligible for breeding.
- White markings and dark tan coloring are allowed (markings on chest, paws, belly, inside of legs).
- Basic color from champagne to yellow to light brown-red.
- A black muzzle, black ears and legs, and a black backline are considered particularly beautiful.
- The dog’s facial expressions are underscored by the black mask.
The Origin of the Bear Dog: Historical Deception
- The Germanic bear dog is said to be modeled as closely as possible on the first shepherd dogs of the European settlers. Contrary to the claims of some breeders, however, there is no greater degree of relationship to these ancient dogs than to other Molossers and mountain dogs.
- In fact, the breed originated in the 1980s from crossbreed litters of Saint Bernards and herding dogs like the Leonberger. Today only bear dogs of the same species are mated and crossing related breeds is considered a breeding mistake.
- In 1995 the first breeding clubs were founded around the impressive giants.
- In East Germany and Bavaria, the dog breed is enjoying growing popularity. They are hardly known outside of Germany.
The Germanic Bear Dog Nature: Silent Watchers with Good Judgment
The Germanic Bear Dog is easy to train as a family pet, but never loses its instincts as a watchdog and protector. The dogs like to observe everyday activities from a quiet and clear spot. They behave cautiously and intervene rather passively even in dangerous situations. When meeting strangers, the dogs put themselves protectively between the owner and the possible danger, without appearing aggressive or restless. They are not prone to barking or growling, but rather use their imposing body size to keep others at bay.