The Karelian Bear Dog has small ears that are cocked and point outward slightly. They are lined with dense fur reducing the risk of frost bite. The thighs are covered in thick hair. A copper tint is typical. Black speckles in the white are considered a fault.
White markings are distinct and occur on the head, neck, chest, abdomen and legs.
The jaws are immensely powerful. The tail is long. The small eyes show intense concentration. The tail curls over the back in a typically Spitz arch. Robustly built, well-boned and of moderate size, the Karelian Bear Dog is slightly longer than he is tall.