Two specially trained Karelian Bear Dogs, Badger and Banjo, are helping the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) manage human-bear conflicts and protect Nevada’s black bear population.

Unlike traditional approaches, these dogs use their natural instincts to safely encourage bears to stay away from people. They assist wildlife officials by locating bears, flushing them from urban areas, and helping re-establish a healthy fear of humans through a non-lethal technique known as “hazing.”