Total length :  137 to 188 cm (54 to 74 in)

Shoulder height :  65 to 91 cm (26 to 36 in)

Weight : Males from 115 to 270 kg (254 to 595 lb), females from 92 to 140 kg (203 to 309 lb); maximum weight attained in autumn due to pre-winter fat reserves, minimum weight in spring due to winter fasting.

Coloration :  Black, sometimes with white, V-shaped marking on chest; extremity of snout yellow; fur in north- western Quebec populations sometimes brown or cinnamon-colored.

External characteristics : Robust and thick-set body; small eyes; snout tapering towards the extremities; prominent, rounded ears; short neck; sturdy 5-digit paws with short, curved claws; short tail ( 7 to 18 cm).