Check with waterrat here. He has a couple and lives remotely on Lake Iliamna where they have lots of brown bears. The dogs do some amazing things.

Bernese Mountain dogs were mentioned by someone... they are a very sad excuse for a breed. The incredible health issues and early deaths added to the cost of buying one make them about the most expensive dog to own... and least useful.

Mark Begich, Joaquin Jackson, and Heller resistance... Three huge reasons to worry about the NRA.