The Tahltan Bear Dog is a small dog that originated in Canada. Named after Tahltan tribes, these small dogs were seen around their camps as they were essential for their existence. The dog was raised to fight and hunt game like ptarmigan, beaver, porcupine,elk and a variety of other game but they were specialist in hunting bear. Working in pair, one dog used to annoy the bear from front while the other attacked from behind. They kept the bear at bay until the hunters came and finished the job.
Though its exact origin is unknown, the Tahltan Bear Dog is speculated to have descended from the dogs of the settlers during the prehistoric migrations. This dog has existed in the remote mountain areas of northwestern British Columbia and Northern Yukon for hundreds of years. It is a Spitz and pariah type breed of hunting dog. At the turn of the 20th century, these dogs were among the rarest dogs but became well known during 1930s so much so that they were recognized by Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) in 1939 or 1941. Unfortunately, this breed could not gain popularity among masses, possibly due to stories that these dogs did not survive going South. What ever the reason, by 1970, the breed had almost became extinct as no new registrations were made. The CKC de-listed this breed and it is now considered to be an extinct breed of dog.
This primitive breed came with a short, dense and harsh coat, erect ears and fox like face. They stood 15-17 inches and weighed 15-20 lbs. Most of these dogs were black with white markings but some were steel gray. White dogs with black or gray spots were not preferred.
This breed was NOT recognized by AKC.